Essential Job Details

• Position Title: Administrative Senior Assistant (Protocol and Logistics)
• Vacancy Code: VA/2025/B5323/30350
• Department/Office: AFR, ESAMCO, Kenya
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Contract Type: Local ICA Support
• Contract Level: LICA-5
• Duration: Open-ended, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds, and satisfactory performance
• Application Period: June 27, 2025, to July 11, 2025, 12:00 AM CET
• Opportunity Type: Current Opening
• Number of Vacancies: Not specified
• Salary: Not specified
• Category/Department: Administration / Logistics

Introduction

The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), an operational arm of the United Nations, is seeking an Administrative Senior Assistant (Protocol and Logistics) to join its East & Southern Africa Multi Country Office (ESAMCO) in Nairobi, Kenya, starting in 2025. This role supports peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects by providing administrative and logistical assistance, making it ideal for a detail-oriented professional passionate about global impact. With the application deadline set for July 11, 2025, at 12:00 AM CET (approximately 9 days from today, July 2, 2025, at 11:51 PM EAT), this is a timely opportunity to contribute to UNOPS’ mission of sustainable development.

About UNOPS

UNOPS, with a global presence across 80 countries, is dedicated to supporting the successful implementation of its partners’ projects in peacebuilding, humanitarian aid, and development. Headquartered with a significant operational hub in Nairobi, Kenya, UNOPS excels in infrastructure, procurement, project management, financial management, and human resources. Employing over 5,000 personnel and recruiting approximately 7,800 on behalf of partners, UNOPS promotes a diverse workforce representing 160 nationalities. Committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), UNOPS offers flexible working options and a progressive work-life harmonization policy. As an Administrative Senior Assistant, you’ll support this mission by ensuring seamless protocol and logistics operations, contributing to better lives and sustainable development worldwide. Explore more at UNOPS Careers.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordination Support:
  • Assist in coordinating administrative processes, ensuring timely support to personnel and partners across the Kenya Country Office, Africa Regional Office, and other UNOPS entities.
  • Facilitate communication between departments to maintain operational efficiency and consistency in service delivery.
• Travel and Visa Support:
  • Manage travel arrangements, including booking flights, accommodations, and transportation for staff and visitors, ensuring compliance with UNOPS policies.
  • Process visa applications and protocol-related documents, liaising with embassies and government authorities to expedite clearances.
• Knowledge Building and Knowledge Sharing:
  • Contribute to the development of administrative and logistical guidelines, sharing best practices with the team to enhance operational knowledge.
  • Participate in training sessions and document lessons learned to improve future processes.
• Logistics Management:
  • Oversee the procurement and distribution of office supplies, ensuring availability and proper inventory management.
  • Coordinate logistics for events, workshops, and field missions, including transportation and equipment setup.
• Protocol Duties:
  • Serve as a point of contact for protocol matters, such as VIP visits, official correspondence, and diplomatic engagements.
  • Ensure adherence to local regulations and UNOPS standards in all protocol-related activities.

Qualifications and Skills

• Education: Completion of secondary education is required; a diploma or degree in Business Administration, Logistics, or a related field is an asset.
• Experience: Minimum 5 years of experience in administrative or logistics support roles, preferably within an international organization or UN system.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and experience with ERP systems (e.g., UNOPS’ systems) is desirable.
  • Knowledge of travel management, visa processing, and protocol procedures.
• Interpersonal Skills:
  • Strong organizational and multitasking abilities, with attention to detail and the capacity to prioritize under pressure.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to liaise with diverse stakeholders.
• Language Requirements: Fluency in English is required; knowledge of French or Swahili is an advantage.
• Preferred: Experience in a multicultural environment or with UN agencies to align with UNOPS’ global operations.

Company Culture and Values

UNOPS fosters a diverse, inclusive, and results-focused culture, valuing creativity and a commitment to the SDGs. With a workforce of over 12,000 personnel across 80 countries, UNOPS promotes gender balance and work-life harmonization through flexible working options. Based in Nairobi, the ESAMCO office manages a growing portfolio across East and Southern Africa, supporting transactional and operational projects. As an Administrative Senior Assistant, you’ll thrive in this supportive environment, contributing to a mission that builds better lives and sustainable futures, underpinned by a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion.

How to Apply

Apply now for the Administrative Senior Assistant (Protocol and Logistics) position. Submit your application via UNOPS Careers before 12:00 AM CET on July 11, 2025 (approximately 3:00 AM EAT). Ensure your application includes a detailed CV and cover letter highlighting relevant experience in administration, logistics, and protocol. UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes or request payments at any recruitment stage. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Official communications will be through the UNOPS job portal.

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administrative assistant, logistics jobs, Nairobi job opportunities, UNOPS careers, Kenya jobs

Why Choose This Administrative Senior Assistant Role?

A Global Impact Role in Administration

The Administrative Senior Assistant (Protocol and Logistics) role at UNOPS offers a chance to support peacebuilding and development projects in Nairobi, Kenya. This position is ideal for a skilled professional with administrative and logistical experience, eager to contribute to a UN agency with a global reach.

UNOPS’ Influence in Nairobi

Nairobi, as the ESAMCO hub, manages a diverse portfolio across East and Southern Africa, leveraging the city’s strategic location. The Administrative Senior Assistant will enhance operational support, aligning with Kenya’s role in regional development and UN initiatives.

Career Benefits of the Role

This Administrative Senior Assistant position offers:

• Global Exposure: Work with a UN agency impacting 80+ countries
• Skill Development: Enhance protocol and logistics expertise
• Flexible Work: Benefit from work-life harmonization policies
• Diversity: Collaborate in a multicultural team
• Growth Potential: Open doors to senior administrative roles

The role provides a foundation for a career in international administration or project support.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities in Detail

As an Administrative Senior Assistant, your daily tasks will include:

• Coordination: Support inter-departmental communication
• Travel Arrangements: Book travel and process visas
• Knowledge Sharing: Document best practices
• Logistics Oversight: Manage supplies and event logistics
• Protocol Support: Handle VIP visits and correspondence
• Reporting: Assist with administrative documentation

These tasks ensure smooth office and project operations.

Technical and Soft Skills Development

The Administrative Senior Assistant role hones a range of skills, including:

• Administrative Skills: Master travel and protocol processes
• Logistics Expertise: Manage supply chains and events
• Communication: Liaise with diverse stakeholders
• Organization: Prioritize multiple tasks
• Digital Proficiency: Use ERP and Office tools
• Cultural Sensitivity: Navigate multicultural settings

These skills are transferable to administration, logistics, or international relations roles.

Why Nairobi?

Nairobi, a UN hub with a vibrant multicultural scene, is ideal for this role. Its connectivity supports ESAMCO’s regional operations, offering networking and a dynamic work environment.

Industry Trends in Administration

Administration in international organizations is shifting toward digital tools, remote coordination, and sustainability. The demand for skilled assistants is rising, driven by UNOPS’ growing projects. As an Administrative Senior Assistant, you’ll lead these efforts.

Application Tips

To stand out for the Administrative Senior Assistant role:

• Highlight Experience: Emphasize 5+ years in administration or logistics
• Showcase Skills: Detail ERP, travel, and protocol knowledge
• Craft a Cover Letter: Explain your fit for UNOPS’ mission
• Include Languages: Note English fluency and any French/Swahili
• Apply Early: Submit by July 11, 2025, via UNOPS Careers

Work Environment and Culture

UNOPS offers a collaborative and inclusive work environment, valuing diversity and flexibility. As an Administrative Senior Assistant, you’ll work in a supportive setting, benefiting from UNOPS’ global resources.

How This Role Contributes to Kenya’s Development

By joining as an Administrative Senior Assistant, you’ll support UNOPS’ projects, aligning with Kenya Vision 2030. Efficient logistics and protocol will enhance regional peacebuilding, contributing to sustainable development.

Networking and Professional Growth

The Administrative Senior Assistant role offers connections with UN personnel, partners, and logistics experts in Nairobi. Engaging with networks like the International Facility Management Association can boost your career, with UNOPS providing growth opportunities.

The Importance of Timing

With today’s date being July 2, 2025, at 11:51 PM EAT, you have 9 days to apply by July 11, 2025, at 12:00 AM CET (3:00 AM EAT). Acting promptly allows time to tailor your application and meet the deadline.

Long-Term Impact and Fulfillment

This role offers a chance to impact global development, aligning with UNOPS’ SDGs. The fulfillment from supporting peace and sustainability can enhance your professional satisfaction.

Challenges and Rewards

Challenges include managing tight deadlines and diverse tasks, balanced by rewards like global collaboration and career stability. These experiences will build your resilience and expertise.

Support and Resources

UNOPS provides training, digital tools, and a supportive team. As an Administrative Senior Assistant, you’ll have resources to excel, backed by UNOPS’ project management expertise.

Community and Project Engagement

This role involves engaging with project teams and local partners, enhancing your coordination and cultural skills. Supporting field missions will add practical experience.

Future Career Pathways

Skills gained here open doors to Administrative Officer, Logistics Coordinator, or Management roles within UNOPS or other UN agencies, leveraging your growing expertise.

Industry Recognition and Professional Development

Working with UNOPS offers recognition in the international development sector. Participation in UN training or certifications, such as PRINCE2, can enhance your credentials, with Nairobi’s UN hub providing a platform for growth.

Work-Life Balance and Employee Support

UNOPS values work-life harmonization, offering flexible schedules and support services. As an Administrative Senior Assistant, you’ll benefit from this policy, ensuring a balanced professional life.

Contribution to Sustainability

This role supports sustainable project implementation, aligning with UNOPS’ green initiatives. Efficient logistics reduces environmental impact, offering a role in a forward-thinking organization.

Training and Skill Enhancement Programs

UNOPS provides training in logistics, protocol, and digital tools. These programs will equip you with modern skills, increasing your value and preparing you for higher responsibilities.

Community Impact Stories

Assistants at UNOPS often share stories of supporting life-saving missions in Kenya. Your role could involve similar contributions, providing fulfillment and a connection to impactful outcomes.

Mentorship and Leadership Opportunities

Experienced staff at UNOPS can mentor you in protocol and logistics. As you grow, you may lead small teams or train others, fostering leadership skills and career progression.

Final Call to Action

Don’t miss the opportunity to join UNOPS as an Administrative Senior Assistant (Protocol and Logistics) in Nairobi. Apply by 12:00 AM CET on July 11, 2025, via UNOPS Careers. Support sustainable development and advance your administrative career with a global leader.