Project Assistant

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the global environmental authority, promoting sustainable development within the UN system. Its Ecosystems Division provides technical assistance, particularly in crisis-affected regions. The Disaster and Conflict Branch supports areas damaged by conflict and disasters, integrating environmental needs into recovery. UNEP's work in Ukraine, initiated in March 2023, responds to a government request to address environmental damage from the conflict, focusing on monitoring, assessment, mitigation, and remediation.

Job Purpose

The Project Assistant will support the UNEP Kyiv Office in implementing ongoing and upcoming projects related to Ukraine's green recovery. This role is crucial for facilitating coordination, information management, and follow-up of jointly implemented activities. The incumbent will assist in strategic planning, project coordination, and communication with national and international partners. Key contributions include supporting the planning and execution of project activities, managing communications, coordinating with stakeholders, and ensuring timely delivery of project outputs. The position aims to bolster UNEP's efforts in promoting a sustainable, climate-resilient, and green conflict-recovery in Ukraine, aligning with the country's National Recovery Plan and green economy principles.

Responsibilities

The Project Assistant will be responsible for programme and project coordination, including assisting with strategic planning for regulatory and policy activities related to green recovery. This involves supporting the planning, coordination, and implementation of UNEP programme projects and activities, and managing communications with authorities, implementing partners, and cooperation agencies. The role includes coordinating consultants and experts for timely project output delivery and organizing meetings, workshops, and events. Additionally, the assistant will contribute to reporting and documentation, preparing progress reports, meeting minutes, and briefing notes in English and Ukrainian. They will ensure follow-up with the Government on UNEP programmes/projects and provide secretariat support for meetings. Partnership coordination and stakeholder engagement are key, requiring effective communication and collaboration with government bodies, regional/local authorities, NGOs, and partner institutions to facilitate information exchange and advance green recovery objectives. Other relevant duties supporting programme implementation will also be performed.

Work Experience

A minimum of one month of experience is required in sustainable development or project/programme implementation at the national or international level. Experience and understanding of environmental mainstreaming are considered assets. Previous collaboration with government or international organizations is desirable. Strong coordination, organizational, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills are essential.

Skills

Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, communication, teamwork, empowerment, trust-building, performance management, decision-making, planning, organizing, and professionalism. Expertise areas include administration, communication, and development programmes. Strong coordination, organizational, and interpersonal skills are required, along with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

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