Project Assistant

Organizational Context

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) promotes industrial development for poverty reduction, inclusive globalization, and environmental sustainability. Its mission, aligned with the 2030 Agenda and SDGs, is to foster inclusive and sustainable industrial development in Member States. UNIDO's mandate is recognized in SDG-9, focusing on resilient infrastructure, industrialization, and innovation. The Medium-Term Programme Framework (MTPF) 2026-2029 guides UNIDO's strategy, emphasizing fair supply chains, innovation for food security, renewable energy, and climate action. Cross-cutting priorities include industrial policy, skills development, digitalization, gender equality, youth empowerment, circular economy, and private sector investment. UNIDO implements its mandate through technical cooperation, research, policy advisory, normative functions, and partnerships, operating through its Headquarters, Sub-regional Offices, and Country Offices.

Job Purpose

To provide administrative and operational support for the Africa Trade Competitiveness and Market Access (ATCMA) Programme, a joint UNIDO-ITC initiative funded by the EU. The programme aims to increase intra-African and EU-Africa trade by addressing market access challenges, enhancing quality infrastructure, and strengthening MSME capacities in selected value chains across Eastern and Southern Africa. The role supports the implementation of specific UNIDO-led outputs related to quality compliance, standards, value addition, diversification, and SME capacity building.

Responsibilities

Provide administrative and clerical support for technical cooperation programmes and projects. Screen and draft correspondence, manage incoming/outgoing mail, and handle inquiries. Assist in preparing documents, presentations, and background information for project formulation. Support the financial monitoring of projects, including budget tracking, expenditure reviews, and budget revisions. Facilitate procurement processes, ensuring compliance with UNIDO rules and donor requirements. Process administrative actions related to recruitment, travel, and payments using SAP. Arrange meetings and events, maintain filing systems, and perform ad-hoc research and assignments.

Work Experience

A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience with a secondary education, or 3 years with a first-level university degree. Experience in office procedures, preferably within the UN system or a multicultural environment, is desirable. Knowledge of procurement and/or financing services, and experience in supporting financial monitoring and reporting for projects are required. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and internet use is required. Experience with SAP or similar ERP software is desirable.

Skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook). Experience with SAP or similar ERP systems. Strong organizational and administrative skills. Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines. Attention to detail and accuracy in document preparation and data management. Good communication and interpersonal skills.

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