Personal Assistant

Background

The United Nations Conference on Trade And Development (UNCTAD) is the part of the United Nations Secretariat dealing with trade, investment, and development issues. The organization's goals are to maximize the trade, investment and development opportunities of developing countries and assist them in their efforts to integrate into the world economy on an equitable basis.

Throughout the recent two decades, the Republic of Tajikistan's Government has undertaken significant reforms to open the economy and introduce the market mechanisms. At present, the country’s leadership is willing to continue and deepen the structural transformation, particularly in the areas of transport infrastructure development and export diversification. Therefore, there is an urgent need for modernized and transparent Customs procedures to promote Tajikistan’s positioning as a land-linked transit country and a pro-active player in the regional trade and economic processes.

Under the World Bank funded Program, UNCTAD has recently signed an agreement with the Customs Services under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan (CSGRT) for Reforms, Automation and modernization of Customs processes and procedures by implementation of Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) World under the Phase Four of the Central Asia Regional Links Program (CARS-4) Project of ASYCUDA Component. Administrative measures are taken to prepare the environment for implementing new Customs regimes and procedures to ensure transparency in the Customs clearance process and to fight Customs Corruption on one hand and to have simplified procedures on the other. 

In order to fulfill the requirements for the full implementation of ASYCUDA World, a national team will be hired to work closely with international experts. A National Project Manager of ASYCUDA will be hired under the project to lead and manage the national team for the reforms and full Automation of Tajikistan Customs.

In addition, the Administrative and all logistical arrangements of the project will be done through the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Dushanbe, Tajikistan; therefore, the process of recruitment will be managed through UNDP and the individual contracts will be issued accordingly.

Under the overall guidance and direct supervision of the Natioinal Project Manager, the Translator/Personal Assistant is responsible for assisting the effective and efficient management of the project providing administrative/translating support management, applies and promotes a client-oriented approach consistent with UNCTAD’s rules and regulations.

S/he should posses high sense of responsibility, courtesy, tact and the ability to work with people of different national and cultural backgrounds

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Perform and ensure correct translation of official documents between Russian, Tajiki, and English languages (the three languages);
2. Edit and proof-read texts to accurately reflect the three languages;
3. Review translated material for the accuracy of meaning, grammar, and syntax;
4. Assist the ASYCUDA team and Tajikistan Customs Services in translating/rephrasing documents between the three languages and vice versa in high quality; 
5. Usage of the standardized terminology in a clear language understood by all parties involved while translating a written document among the three languages;
6. Perform efficient and accurate translation during the Forum, side events, bilateral meetings, multi-lateral meetings, etc.;
7. Convert written materials from one language into another, such as concept notes, brochures, web articles, social media posts, etc.;
8. Assisting the international staff as an interpreter in technical and functional meetings.
9. Create a new text in the target language that matches to content and style of the original language;
10. Any other task as assigned by the Line Supervisor.

Competencies

Corporate Competencies:

1. Demonstrates commitment to UNCTAD’s mission, vision and values.
2. Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability

Functional Competencies:

Knowledge Management and Learning

1. Shares knowledge and experience

1. Provides helpful feedback and advice to others in the office
2. Be flexible as member of the team to assist Admin-supporting staff as required;

Self-Management

1. Focuses on result for the client
2. Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude
3. Remains calm, in control and good humored even under pressure
4. Responds positively to critical feedback and differing points of views

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

• Completion of at least Secondary Education is required.
• Bachelor degree in Literature, Economics, Law, Business Administration or other relevant field is desirable.

Experience:

• At least 3 years of proven relevant work experience as professional translator / interpreter is required with completion of Secondary Education;
• Previous experience in Tajikistan Public Sector especially with Customs or Trade related matters is desirable.
• Working knowledge of Ms. Office Package.

Language Requirements:

• Fluency in spoken and written English, Tajik and Russian languages is a must.