Administrative Assistant (Protocol) at Food and Agriculture Organization Of the United Nations

Organizational Setting

• The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through the FAO Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to MORE efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems, for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind.
• The primary goal of FAO Country Offices is to aid governments in creating policies, programs and projects that secure food security and diminish hunger and malnutrition. They also support the development of agriculture, fisheries, and forestry, ensuring the sustainable use of environmental and natural resources

Reporting Lines

• Under general supervision of the FAO Representative, the Administrative Assistant (Protocol) reports directly the Assistant FAO Representative (Administration) and work closely with other administrative Assistants/Associates. He/she is expected to use initiative and knowledge within the Protocol area to independently respond to queries with general guidance. There is a requirement to use judgment in dealing with unforeseen problems daily. The Administrative Assistant (Protocol) works for various Units and Thematic areas within the Representation, and supports with visa request, regularization and extension, customs duty waiver, facilitation of FAO employees’ transfers, benefits and entitlements as applicable etc.

Technical Focus

• The Administrative Assistant (Protocol) will perform a wide range of routine administrative functions in support of the smooth and efficient protocol support in the FAO Representation. He/she will support day-to-day administrative actions, including specialized and complex processes and functions, ensuring consistency, timeliness and conformity with relevant FAO manuals, guidelines and procedures.

Tasks And Responsibilities

• Liaise with the relevant Host Country Government entities (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and/or Protocol unit) for troubleshooting of any protocol related matters.
• Assist staff members and their recognized dependents in processing and following up their requests for visas, resident permits and diplomatic identification as well as other necessary related documents in accordance with the requirement of the United Nations and the Host Country.
• Manage Airport Protocol Operations; facilitate airport lounge bookings including meeting and greeting airports in support of departure and arrival of UN officials.
• Arrange airport transfers of high-level officials and key partners and support to expedite customs and immigration procedures as necessary.
• Responsible for issuance of protocol routine correspondence.
• Process annual requests for airport passes for senior staff.
• Any other duties assigned by supervisor.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

• University degree in Business Administration, Political Science, Sociology, Management and other related fields
• Two years of relevant experience in Administration and Protocol support services
• Working knowledge (Level C) of English
• National of Nigeria

FAO Core Competencies

• Results Focus
• Teamwork
• Communication
• Building Effective Relationships
• Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills

• Work experience in more than one location or area of work
• Extent and relevance of experience in Nigerian Visa policies and procedures, Nigerian customs regulations etc.
• Extent and relevance of experience in effectively working with people of different national and cultural background
• Familiarity with the Nigerian Visa Policy, Privileges and immunities for Specialized Agencies of the United Nations

Additional Information

• FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing)
• Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted
• Please note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed at http://www.whed.net/
• For additional employment opportunities visit the FAO employment website: http://www.fao.org/employment/home/en/
• Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.