Assistant to the Project Manager

The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) is seeking an experienced professional to fill the role of Assistant to the Project Manager. This position will be based in Nairobi and will play a critical role in supporting the project management team. ILRI is a CGIAR research centre that works to improve food security and reduce poverty in developing countries through research for better and more sustainable use of livestock.

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What You'll Do

In this role, you will be responsible for providing administrative support to the project management team, ensuring the smooth operation of projects, and contributing to the achievement of project objectives.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date project databases and filing systems, ensuring that all project information is easily accessible and secure.
• Collect and collate data for project documentation and reports, ensuring that all deliverables are submitted on time and meet the required standards.
• Monitor project activities against work plans, identifying any deviations or delays and taking corrective action to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Facilitate project operations, including procurement, recruitment, and knowledge sharing, ensuring that all tasks are completed within agreed timelines and to the required standards.
• Communicate project information to relevant stakeholders, providing regular updates and ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and engaged throughout the project lifecycle.
• Provide support to the research team, including scheduling and documenting meetings, onboarding new team members, and maintaining team calendars and tracking deadlines.
• Process purchase orders and track budgets, ensuring that spending remains within approved allocations and that all financial transactions are properly documented and reconciled.
• Support grant applications, compiling documents, formatting CVs, and ensuring compliance with donor regulations, and coordinate with finance teams to ensure monthly reconciliation is completed within the required timeframe.
• Draft and edit reports, newsletters, and website content, highlighting research outputs and ensuring that all communications are accurate, timely, and effective.

What We're Looking For

To be successful in this role, you will need to have a strong background in project management, excellent administrative skills, and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

• A Bachelor's degree or Diploma in a relevant field, with at least two years of relevant experience with a degree or five years of relevant experience with a diploma.
• A good understanding of methods, techniques, and procedures, with technical training in project management being desirable.
• Effective administrative skills, with the ability to maintain accurate and up-to-date records and databases.
• Excellent communication and writing skills, with the ability to draft and edit reports, newsletters, and website content.
• Experience in facilitating teamwork and collaboration across multiple functions, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Experience working in an international organization, with a good understanding of the cultural and logistical challenges of working in a global environment.

Perks & Benefits

As a member of the ILRI team, you will have the opportunity to work with a leading international research organization, contributing to the improvement of food security and the reduction of poverty in developing countries. You will also have access to a range of benefits, including remote work options, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package.

If you are a motivated and experienced professional looking for a new challenge, please submit your application through our platform. We look forward to hearing from you.