Programme Assistant - Middle East & Gulf

December 20 1000, Brussels

Department

Middle East & Gulf

Summary

Based in Brussels and active in over a dozen countries, the European Institute of Peace (www.eip.org) is an independent organisation working collaboratively with the parties to the conflict, those who represent people suffering from insecurity or at risk of violence, as well as European decision-makers and the conflict prevention, resolution and mediation community. We provide practical experience, technical expertise, and policy advice on conflict resolution. We use a variety of tools to help us do this, including analysis, mapping and design of peace processes and agreements, facilitating policy discussions, and proposing practical engagement, for example through inclusive dialogue and mediation support. Are you captivated by our innovative approach to peace, and do you want to contribute to the mission of our institute? Do you share our vision for a world where people live in safety and peace because conflicts and grievances are resolved through inclusive dialogue and lasting political agreements? We are looking for a Programme Assistant to support the Institute’s Middle East and Gulf Programme within the Engagement, Dialogue & Process Design Unit (EDP).

Responsibilities

Administrative & organisational support 
  • Provide operational, administrative and logistical support to the programme team throughout all phases of the project cycle to ensure smooth project delivery;
  • Under the supervision of the Programme Manager, contribute to the day-to-day implementation of assigned projects, including large and small events planning and logistical management, travel booking and administrative follow-up, scheduling of meetings at various levels, including protocol for high-level engagements, drafting notes from meetings etc;
  • Under the supervision the Programme Manager, and in collaboration with other team members, support the management of on-going project budgets, contributing to organisation and management of invoice, expense claims and other administrative matters pertaining to working expenses;
  • Under the supervision of the Programme Manager, contribute to the drafting of internal and external reports, contribute to the writing of concept notes and project proposals; 
  • Support in ensuring compliance with internal policies and guidelines, as well as strict compliance with donor rules and regulations in the delivery, the monitoring of programme implementation, expenditures and the reporting, while respecting deadlines;
Internal coordination & team management support
  • Under the supervision of the Programme Manager, support team communication, for example by facilitating internal and external communication flows, creating, and maintaining relevant tools and reminder schedules;
  • Take part in and when applicable coordinate meetings. Regularly engage with colleagues in the teams to ensure coordination on new and ongoing project activities;
  • Develop and manage contact lists, mappings and tools necessary to ensure regular engagement with stakeholders; 
  • Coordinate regular and ad hoc internal reporting, ensuring timeliness and high quality of team contributions;
  • Support with compiling briefing materials for internal and external audiences and events, including preparation of speeches for senior leadership;
  • Any other responsibilities agreed upon with Supervisor.
Programmatic support
  • Within delegated responsibilities under the supervision of the Programme Manager, contribute to the development and implementation of the Institute’s Middle East Programme, including its projects in Yemen and the wider Gulf region;
  • Support colleagues with project-related research and the development of relevant documents, including concept notes, talking points and briefing materials;
  • Keep abreast of major debates and discussions, reports, calls for proposals, political events relevant to the Institute’s work in and on the region;
  • Conduct desk research and analysis on policy issues relating to region, upon request;
  • Support team efforts to engage stakeholders and donores. This includes setting up meetings and calls and/or drafting of formal and informal correspondence, note-taking and support in internal follow-up.

Qualifications

  • Minimum 2 years of relevant work experience 
  • Excellent organisational skills and administrative competence; including a meticulous attention to detail and the ability to multitask effectively;
  • Familiarity with the political and economic situation of the wider Middle East, of the conflict contexts within that region, and of the geopolitical developments that are taking place in the region as a whole;
  • Some knowledge of project cycle management, budget management experience would be an advantage;
  • Perfect command of English is necessary. Good command of Arabic language would be a significant advantage, and a good command of another European language would be an asset;
  • Very good communication and people skills;
  • Ability to work well under pressure and comply with tight deadlines;
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a small team.
  • A keen interest in EIP’s work and mission
  • You are legally entitled to work in Belgium (meaning that you are either a EU citizen, or in possession of a Belgian work permit).

Offer

  • An exciting job in an international and diverse environment (18 nationalities represented at the Brussels Office
  • Open-ended Belgian contrac
  • Competitive Benefits package which includes health care insurance and pension plan, meal vouchers, transportation and telework allowance, and SIM car
  • 40h/week and 32 leave days/year
  • The possibility to telework 3 days a week

Start date: February/March 2025

The selected candidate will need to reside in or relocate to Belgium when the employment contract starts.

Additional information

Closing date: 12/01/2025, midnight (CET).


Please submit your application using the webform below.

Our hiring team will review all applications after the closing date of the vacancy. We will keep you informed on the status of your application.


The Institute firmly believes that diverse perspectives are key to our work. Therefore we are committed to equity, diversity and inclusiveness. Your qualities and commitment are what matter to us, regardless of race, nationality, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.
Employment typeStandard job
CommitmentFull-time permanent
Source URLhttps://vacancies.eip.org/jobs/detail/programme-assistant-middle-east-gulf-86
apply to this job
Logo

European institute of Peace

Website

https://www.eip.org/

Email

[email protected]

Imprint

Non profit sector

Please contact: [email protected]