Reference number: 2486
Job status: In-progress
Job category: Local Position
Duty station: Colombo, Sri Lanka
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CIFOR-ICRAF
The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF) envision a more equitable world where trees in all landscapes, from drylands to the humid tropics, enhance the environment and well-being for all. CIFOR and ICRAF are non-profit science institutions that build and apply evidence to todayโs most pressing challenges, including energy insecurity and the climate and biodiversity crises. Over a combined total of 65 years, we have built vast knowledge on forests and trees outside of forests in agricultural landscapes (agroforestry). Using a multidisciplinary approach, we seek to improve lives and to protect and restore ecosystems. Our work focuses on innovative research, partnering for impact, and engaging with stakeholders on policies and practices to benefit people and the planet. Founded in 1993 and 1978, CIFOR and ICRAF are members of CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food secure future dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources. CIFOR-ICRAF is looking for a
Programme Assistant
Overview
The Programme Assistant will provide administrative/secretarial, logistical, and operational support to the Sri Lanka Country Director, ensuring seamless coordination of programme activities, stakeholder engagements, and communication with CIFOR-ICRAF Headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, and Bogor, Indonesia, on budget and programme-related matters, formal communication with external partners, and drafting business letters, Additionally, the role includes ad hoc support to the Finance and Administrative Officer, particularly in organizing workshops, meetings, and field visits related to CIFOR-ICRAFโs activities in Sri Lanka.
Duties and responsibilities Programme and Administrative Support
Assist the Country Director with scheduling meetings, preparing minutes of meetings/discussions, and tracking and following up on action itemsSupport the coordination and implementation of CIFOR-ICRAF projects in Sri Lanka, including planning field trips, workshops, and preparing reports, presentations, and data entry
Maintain programme-related records, databases, and filing systems
Liaise with internal teams, formal communications with project partners, and external stakeholders to ensure effective communication and timely programme execution
Perform other tasks assigned by the Country DirectorWorkshop, Event, and Field Visit Coordination
Assist the Finance and Administrative Officer when required to:
Provide logistical support for workshops, training sessions, stakeholder meetings, and field visits, including venue booking, catering, and travel arrangements
Prepare workshop materials, coordinate participant lists, and finalize event agendas
Ensure compliance with CIFOR-ICRAFโs established policies and procedures for all staff in the Sri Lanka Country Office
Education, knowledge and experience โข Bachelorโs degree relating to the key responsibilities
โข A minimum of 2 yearsโ experience in an administrative or programme support role, preferably in an international development or NGO setting
โข Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Sinhala; proficiency in Tamil is an advantage
โข Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and virtual meeting platforms (Zoom, Teams) and web-based resources
Terms and conditions โข This is a local position open for Sri Lankan citizens. CIFOR-ICRAF offers competitive remuneration in Sri Lankan Rupees to commensurate with skills and experience
โข The initial appointment will be for 1 (one) year, with the possibility of extension contingent upon performance, continued relevance of the position and available resources
โข The duty station will be in Colombo, Sri Lanka
To apply, please visit our career site at: https://www.cifor-icraf.org/about/work-with-us/
To learn more about CIFOR-ICRAF, please visit our websites at: https://www.cifor-icraf.org
CIFOR-ICRAF promotes Gender Diversity โ Applications from women professionals are encouraged.
CIFOR-ICRAF is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity.
Application process The application deadline is 21 May 2025
We will acknowledge all applications, but will contact only short-listed candidates.
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