Programme Support Assistant

OXFAM PURPOSE: To work with others to find lasting solutions to poverty and suffering   TEAM PURPOSE: To provide technical capacity for Oxfam GB’s humanitarian response for people affected by the Syria Crisis   JOB PURPOSE: Since the outbreak of violence in Syria in the spring of 2011, the number of refugees crossing into Lebanon continues to increase. The influx of Syrians has created labour competition, decreasing daily wages and reducing the number of days of work each household is able to access. This has resulted in less purchasing power for both Syrians and Lebanese families. Additionally, rent, food and some non-food prices have increased as a result of border closures. The combination of decreased income and increased cost of essential expenditure, in addition to reduced access to humanitarian assistance, is causing many households to engage in negative coping strategies, such as sending children to work, depleting assets, reducing meals and engaging in exploitative work. These households have little access to formal support systems and existing assistance tends to be inadequate, making them vulnerable to socio-economic and protection related shocks and at risk of falling into a downward spiral of poverty. As a response, Oxfam will be engaging in activities aimed at reducing the impact of socio-economic shocks by increasing access to cash transfers. This will be done collaboratively with the local Social Development Centre and with partner organisation Utopia in the Bab Al Tabbaneh neighbourhood of Tripoli. The purpose of this role is to support cash programming through monitoring, data and knowledge management and support for the administration for cash to Lebanese host community and Syrian refugees, and also possibly emergency cash transfers in partnership with the Protection team. This role will work closely with the protection and economic justice teams, as well as partner organisations and social development centres. In addition to duties as part of the Emergency Food Security and Livelihoods team, this position will also provide administration support to the office to support the day to day activities.   DIMENSIONS: Liaise with Liban Post to ensure the smooth reception of cash by beneficiaries Data entry and management Helpline focal point Monitoring of project with SDC and partner Capture learning and lessons learned, organise reflection meetings Tripoli office administration   Key Responsibilities:   Programme: Liaise with Liban Post to ensure efficient delivery of cash by beneficiaries Work in close consultation with the protection team to ensure appropriate follow up with households, especially in sensitive cases, as well as referrals Ensure the project takes gender issues fully into account Coordinate with identified partners, such as Utopia and the SDC Interface with local authorities and communities as needed Coordinate and report on appeals panel Support research initiatives   Monitoring: Conduct regular onsite monitoring visits, track project progress and flag issues Track project activities and support the SDC and Utopia to ensure that paperwork and decision making between Tripoli and Beirut flows smoothly    Organise quarterly reflection meetings and draft meeting report with the EFSL Coordinator Contribute information to a log of all 'lessons learnt" during the project   Reporting and Data Management Report regularly to the Tripoli Area Manager, and technically coordinate with the EFSL Coordinator on the progress of implementation and challenges encountered against targets set, highlighting constraints and propose solutions Data entry and management of beneficiaries information Log Helpline calls and their resolution Enter data into Activity Info and RAIS Participate in and maintain a timely and appropriate flow of information up and down the management line (including programmatic information, security issues, etc.)   Coordination Represent Oxfam GB in local coordination meetings, such as Basic Assistance   Administration Ensure appropriate administration and conference facilities, and efficient organization of meetings, training and workshops in Tripoli when required Responsible for the proper maintenance of office cleanliness by supervising the Cleaners; maintenance of office equipment; Assist with coordination of travel arrangements in and out of Tripoli Responsible for the maintenance of office stationery supply. To provide monthly reports on issues and stock position. To ensure that the proper administrative procedures and standards for order follow-up, ordering, stock keeping and dispatch are followed.       SKILLS AND COMPETENCE: Technical Expertise: Minimum 1 year of experience in humanitarian programs, preferably working in cash Fluency in written and spoken Arabic and English Good computer skills in MS Office programs, particularly Excel Strength in interpersonal, communication and report writing skills Flexibility and willingness to change work practices and hours, and capability to work in insecure environment  Available to travel throughout assigned region   Recommended knowledge and experience: Cash transfer programming Administrative experience NGO experience Familiarity with social development centres Experience entering data and maintaining databases   Representation Diplomacy, tact, and cultural sensitivity Ability to work with beneficiaries from different backgrounds Communication Good written and spoken English and Arabic is essential Sensitive and culturally appropriate communication skills with people from all backgrounds and situations Commitment Commitment to the aims and beliefs of Oxfam including humanitarian principles and action and to Oxfam’s equal opportunity and gender policies