Deadline: 27 October, 2023

Location: Abuja, Nigeria

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is seeking to fill the role of Programme Assistant.

The foundation works to help all people lead healthy, productive lives, guided by the belief that every life has equal value.

Responsibilities

• Schedule a high volume of appointments and meetings and manage complex calendars for multiple people
• Support travel, as needed, and organise and submit expenses for multiple people on a timely basis
• Provide logistical support for events such as meetings, team training, team retreats, team building events, and convenings which may include coordinating arrangements for participants, preparing and disseminating materials, providing on-site logistical support, etc
• Responsible for high-quality interactions and clear and consistent communications with external partners in the field that represent linguistically and culturally diverse communities
• Act as liaison for team and internal partners, answering questions and routine requests as appropriate
• Provide communications support and assistance to ensure timely responses to email and telephone enquiries
• Maintain electronic records and a well-organised system for tracking, monitoring, and prioritising tasks and projects across multiple supported staff
• Ensure active engagement in learning opportunities, including participation in team skill-building, collaboration, and equity learning agenda

Requirements

• An academic background in foreign languages, diplomacy, communications, administration, or a relevant field of study is required
• Minimum of 3 years work experience in supporting multiple people in a complex and fast-paced office setting, interacting extensively with internal and external contacts
• Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in English, both in verbal and written communication, while consistently employing diplomacy and sound judgment in all interactions, especially when engaging with individuals from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, whether within or outside the organisation
• Having a moderate grasp of the French language for both oral and written communication is an added advantage
• Proven track record of providing support to senior staff or leadership teams at a global or regional level within the framework of a matrix organisational structure
• Demonstrates effectiveness in setting priorities and meeting deadlines in a role requiring attention to detail in composing, typing, and proofing materials
• Experience establishing organisational systems to improve efficiency and functioning in a changing environment
• Flexibility in meeting changing organisational and team needs to be accompanied by a willingness to work with shifting role priorities to prioritise collaboration and teamwork
• Open to feedback and an ability to adjust to diverse communication styles
• Demonstrated proficiency with Outlook, Microsoft Office, and OneNote, is required
• Previous experience with MS SharePoint and MS Teams preferred. Experience in learning and mastering new software applications

To apply and for more information, click here.

Photo source: Marc Smith