Program Assistant

The Arab Human Rights Fund (AHRF) is a not-for-profit philanthropic organization that supports human rights organizations in the Arab region.  The Fund also works to cultivate domestic funding for human rights and promotes the concept of social justice philanthropy within the Arab region.  Governed by a diverse Board of Directors composed of respected members from the region’s human rights, philanthropic and civil society communities, the Fund is independent of any governmental, political, religious or other interests and is committed to operating with transparency and accountability.
Established in 2008, the Fund has supported human rights work in 20 Arab countries and is now poised to expand its efforts in response to the unprecedented opportunities to advance human rights inside the region.  A career with the Fund is a unique opportunity to support the realization of human rights for all peoples in the Arab region.  For more information about the Fund, visit www.ahrfund.org.
The Fund seeks a full-time Program Assistant to join its small but dynamic team at the Fund’s office in Beirut.  The ideal candidate will have experience providing administrative support to civil society organizations operating in the Arab region.  The Program Assistant will support the Program Officers by ensuring the smooth operation of the Fund’s grantmaking program, including grants management, research, and logistical planning. Please note that the Fund will not be able to cover relocation costs.  Starting date is immediately. 
RESPONSIBILITIES
Grants Management

Vet and manage queries and requests from grantseekers, and process proposals that are received via email or submitted online. Send acknowledgements in a timely fashion.
Enter applicant data into grants management database when necessary.
Manage grant and grantee information in new (sophisticated) grants management software.
Receive and process final application materials, communicate with applicants to ensure submission of all required documentation, and send reminders regarding application deadlines.
Prepare grant agreements and annexes. Ensure that all documents related to grant agreements are received before grant is transferred.
Notify grantees of interim and final report due dates, and follow up to ensure proper completion,
Assist Program Officers in completing Board grant recommendation forms.

 Grantmaking

Assist Program Officers in researching applicants and grantees as part of due diligence work.
Research human rights developments and organizations in the region as relates to grantmaking goals.
Research potential funders and capacity-building providers for grantees.
Explore and implement policies related to the security of grantees and applicants.

Communications & Outreach

Assist Program Officers in developing and drafting program materials for the Fund’s communication and fundraising purposes.
Assist in organizing program-related meetings and events.
Organize logistics for program officers’ field visits.

Operations

Translate basic materials as necessary between English, French, and Arabic.

QUALIFICATIONS

A minimum of two years work experience in management or administration
Bachelors degree in business, administration, or related fields
IT literacy (MS Word, MS Excel, database software)
Good research skills
Organized, diligent, hard-working
Ability to work effectively as part of a team
Civil society experience
Human rights experience an asset