Title: Programme Associate (open for Nepali nationals only)
No. of positions: 3

Summary

We are looking for someone passionate about project management with proven skills in administrative management. The Programme Associate will help manage and coordinate programme administration and support budget and financial management for ICIMOD’s action areas and related components.

The applicant must be results driven and motivated to make a difference. The Programme Associate will be based in Kathmandu, Nepal, working in a cross-cultural, impact-oriented environment. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who values partnerships and diversity; is passionate about mountains and people; and is committed to helping build a greener, more inclusive, climate-resilient Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH). As ICIMOD moves into its new Strategy 2030 period from 2023, our programmes will be more focused and impactful, and we are eager to welcome someone who is a great team player and can add value with this important role.

Responsibilities and tasks

Under the direct supervision of the concerned action area coordinator and in close cooperation with the strategic group lead and the action area team, the Programme Associate will be responsible for the following: 

Manage general administration

• Provide administrative support to ensure the smooth operation of the action area, including the preparation of a work calendar, contractual agreements, and annual plan and progress reports 
• Ensure availability/functioning of required stationery and equipment
• Draft ToRs as per the standard template for individual/institutional contracts 

Support in organising national/international travels and events

• Prepare the annual event calendar and related budgets; liaise with other relevant administrative units for event organisation and management 
• Prepare participants’ lists, dispatch invitations, and manage follow-up communication
• Arrange travel and vehicle arrangements as required and manage travel claim distribution
• Arrange other logistical requirements for events, including travel/hotel/vehicle requirements, stationery, and other equipment with close coordination with the Travel and Hospitality Unit

Coordinate finance and administration

• Provide support in annual planning and budgeting 
• Ensure the completion of financial reports as per the standard checklist 
• Monitor project budget utilisation and payments, and liaise with the Finance Unit for the timely release of payments 
• Support the programme in business development

Support knowledge management and communication

• Manage the action area’s information management system, including proper filing of documents
• Maintain a database of publications produced by related networks
• Maintain the communications with external parties and stakeholders on a timely basis

Other responsibilities

• Execute other tasks assigned by the concerned action area coordinator and strategic group lead as required and within one’s capacity
• Work in close collaboration with the action area coordinator to ensure smooth operation of the initiative 

Minimum qualifications and requirements

• A master’s degree in business administration with a minimum of two years of work experience in an administrative capacity. A first-level university degree with four years’ experience related to social and environmental sciences or natural resource management will also be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
• Experience in financial reporting and maintenance of accounts
• Strong interest in administrative work in the environment and development sectors
• Demonstrated ability to speak and write fluently in English and Nepali
• Excellent written, communication, and interpersonal skills for communicating and interacting with network members (including during off-hours on occasion) 
• Flexibility in terms of timing for organising workshops, training programmes, and meetings
• Excellent computer skills (MS Office applications)

Competencies and skills

• Teamwork and cooperation: Works smoothly and effectively with others in the team to establish constructive solutions to meet team objectives
• Result orientation: Takes responsibility for fulfilling challenging goals set in line with organizational processes
• Cross-cultural impact: Adjusts to cultural differences and respects and understands cultural differences
• Analytical thinking: Seeks out information to understand problems and uses appropriate data to support decisions
• Continuous improvement and innovation: Continually improve work processes and questions status quo practices, traditions, and assumptions
• Self-development: Demonstrates a continuous learning attitude and seeks opportunities for personal development
• Developing others: Facilitates effective operational results and compliance

Duty station

• The duty station is Kathmandu. Frequent travel in the HKH region may be required.

Duration

• One year with a probation period of  three months, starting as soon as possible. Possibility of an extension subject to performance and ICIMOD's future funding levels.

Remuneration

• Salaries and benefits at ICIMOD are competitive compared with other international organisations. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, which includes provident fund, health insurance, severance pay, children’s education allowance, and paid leave. 
• Remuneration is commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Gender and equity policy

• Qualified and eligible women candidates and those from disadvantaged backgrounds are highly encouraged to apply. ICIMOD upholds a gender equity policy and is supportive of women professionals. It operates a day-care centre at the campus and is committed to the integration of gender equity at the organisational and programmatic levels.