Application Deadline: 7th September 2026

Job Purpose:

The Programme Associate plays a crucial role in implementing established systems and procedures, contributing to the generation of substantive knowledge by compiling, synthesizing, and analyzing relevant information. The Programme Associate supports the facilitation of effective and compliant implementation of UNFPA programs and projects. This involves utilizing and developing appropriate mechanisms and systems while ensuring adherence to established procedures. The incumbent ensures the application of established procedures and contributes to timely delivery of results in line with UNFPA rules, regulations and operational policies.

The role requires maintaining collaborative relationships with all programme and Operations staff in the office. The Programme Associate is essential to fostering effective communication and coordination within the country office, contributing to the achievement of UNFPA's strategic objectives. 

The Programme Associate works under the direct supervision of the GBV/Gender Advisor in collaboration with the programme and operations teams to ensure timely and compliant programme delivery.

You would be responsible for:

Programme Implementation Support

• Participate in the formulation of the country programme by assisting in gathering information relevant to UNFPA’s programme assistance role in Kenya, drafting project documents and work plans, and preparing tables and statistical data. 
• Assist in the development, implementation, and monitoring of respective programs and initiatives in alignment with UNFPA's strategic goals.
• Contribute to the collection and analysis of data related to the respective portfolio and the needs to inform program decision-making. 
• Assist in the preparation of reports, presentations, and other communication materials related to UNFPA’s programs for internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide day-to-day administrative and logistical support to programme teams, including travel arrangements, events coordination, donor missions, and procurement requests.

Budget Support and Financial Monitoring

• Assist in the preparation and analysis of programme/project budget proposals; assist in the interpretation of budget guidelines; review and coordinate submissions of programme proposals and budget estimates, ensuring that requisite information is included and justified in terms of proposed activities; propose adjustments as necessary; prepare reports and ensure that outputs/services are properly categorized.
• Assist in the monitoring and evaluation of programmes/projects; categorizes, updates, tracks and analyses data related to programmes/projects, e.g. accounting records, outputs, resources utilized, deviations/revisions, etc.; carries out periodic status reviews, identifies issues and initiates requisite follow-up actions; prepares revised budget estimates; reports on budget revisions, expenditures and obligations, verifies availability of funds; ensures necessary approval and entry in the corporate budget system; initiates financial authorizations for expenditures.
• Collaborate with programme/project managers on assigned portfolio performance reporting; liaise with relevant parties on the interpretation of activities/services and various planning instruments, such as the medium-term plan and internal work plans; assist with reporting requirements, guidelines, rules, and procedures, and ensure the completeness and accuracy of submitted data.
• Draft correspondence and communications related to all aspects of programme/project administration, including work plans and budgets, revisions, and other related issues, and prepare the assigned unit's contributions for a variety of periodic reports.
• Provide support during audits, including compiling required documents and responding to audit queries.

Implementing Partner (IP) Management Support

• Assist in the preparation of implementing partner agreements, financial reports, and supporting documentation.
• Collaborate with the Operations Unit to ensure compliance and quality assurance of the assigned portfolio and its Implementing Partners, as well as related activities as mandated by HQ and the office management.
• Maintain records of partner agreements, advances, disbursements and liquidations.
• Coordinate communication between implementing partners and the office to ensure timely resolution of documentation and compliance matters.
• Support capacity-building activities for Implementing Partners related to programme management, as required.

Perform any other duties as may be assigned by the supervisor or designated authority.

Qualifications and Experience: 

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business, social sciences, or a related field.

Knowledge and Experience: 

• At least 6 years of relevant experience in programme/ project management.
• Relevant experience in administration, finance and project management.
• Proficiency in current office software applications, web-based management and ERP systems. 
• Experience with UNFPA systems and inter-UN coordination is desired.

Languages: 

Fluency in the English language is required.

Required Competencies: 

Values:

• Exemplifying integrity, 
• Demonstrating commitment to UNFPA and the UN system, 
• Embracing cultural diversity, 
• Embracing change

Core Competencies: 

• Achieving results,
• Being accountable,
• Developing and applying professional expertise/business acumen,
• Thinking analytically and strategically,
• Working in teams/managing ourselves and our relationships,

Functional Competencies:

• Delivering results-based programmes
• Leveraging resources and building strategic alliances and partnerships
• Internal and external communication and advocacy for resource mobilization
• Providing logistical and operational support
• Managing documents, correspondence, data and reports

Compensation and Benefits:

This position offers an attractive remuneration package including a competitive net salary plus health insurance and other benefits as applicable.

UNFPA Work Environment:

UNFPA provides a work environment that reflects the values of gender equality, diversity, integrity and healthy work-life balance. We are committed to ensuring gender parity in the organization and therefore encourage women to apply. Individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups are highly encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request, to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA promotes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all regardless of personal characteristics and dimensions of diversity. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is at the heart of UNFPA's workforce - click here to learn more.

Disclaimer:

Selection and appointment may be subject to background and reference checks, medical clearance, visa issuance and other administrative requirements. 

UNFPA does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing, testing or other fee in connection with the application or recruitment process and does not concern itself with information on applicants' bank accounts.