Project Assistant – MENA Program
Location: The Hague, Netherlands (Hybrid)
Region: Middle East and North Africa (MENA)
Hours: 16 hours per week (2 days/week)
Start Date: 15 October 2025
Application Deadline: 1 September 2025
About Hivos
Hivos is an international development organization rooted in humanist values. In collaboration with civil society organizations, citizens, and partners across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Latin America, Hivos strives to foster just, inclusive, and sustainable societies. Its work centers on three core impact areas:
- Gender equality, diversity, and inclusion
- Climate justice
- Civic rights in the digital age
Hivos employs a solution-driven approach, building broad-based movements for change by amplifying and connecting voices across regions.
Position Overview
Hivos is seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Project Assistant to support its MENA program, based at the Global Office in The Hague. This part-time role (16 hours/week) offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful global initiatives and support diverse projects across the MENA region.
The Project Assistant will play a key role in ensuring the smooth implementation and administration of projects, working closely with the MENA Program Manager in The Hague and the MENA Director based in Lebanon. The position involves coordination with local and international partners and requires a high level of organizational, administrative, and communication skills.
Key Responsibilities
Administrative and Program Support
- Assist in preparing and disseminating contracts for partners and consultants via Hivos’ project management system (AllSolutions).
- Maintain accurate project records and ensure all relevant documentation is filed, both digitally and physically.
- Enter financial and administrative data into internal systems, monitor project timelines, contract deadlines, and reporting schedules.
- Support the auditing process and ensure timely submission of deliverables before payment processing.
Financial and Project Monitoring
- Coordinate with financial officers to ensure accurate entry of project-related expenses in the system.
- Initiate and track project payments, ensuring compliance with Hivos and donor requirements.
- Monitor reporting obligations and project milestones to ensure timely delivery.
Procurement and Logistics
- Lead or assist with the procurement of goods and services by internal procedures, maintaining complete and accurate documentation.
- Provide logistical support for travel arrangements, meetings, workshops, and online events.
- Coordinate internal scheduling, organize meetings, draft and distribute agendas, and take meeting minutes with follow-up on action items.
Communication and Coordination
- Serve as a point of contact for internal and external stakeholders regarding project-related matters.
- Ensure timely and professional communication to support ongoing project operations and partner engagement.
Departmental and Quality Support
- Contribute to departmental organization by managing calendars, schedules, and planning activities.
- Participate in MENA-related initiatives and cross-departmental quality improvement projects.
- Suggest and implement improvements to administrative and operational processes.
Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate brings the following qualifications and attributes:
- 4 to 6 years of relevant experience in project assistance and administration, preferably in international development or nonprofit sectors.
- Educational background equivalent to secondary vocational education or higher.
- Strong command of English is required; proficiency in Dutch is considered an asset.
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple tasks under pressure.
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently as well as in multicultural teams.
- Demonstrated integrity and experience handling sensitive information.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); experience with AllSolutions is a plus.
What Hivos Offers
This role is based at Hivos’ Global Office in the heart of The Hague. The organization offers a part-time employment contract for 16 hours per week, with potential for extension to 24 hours depending on future funding.
The gross monthly salary ranges between €2,931.36 and €3,757.56 based on a 36-hour work week, by Hivos’ labor conditions. Additional benefits include:
- Commuting reimbursement
- Laptop provided
- Pension scheme participation
- Flexible hybrid work arrangement (50% remote work)
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a CV and cover letter by 1 September 2025 via the application link. Due to the expected volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Finalists will be invited to complete a written assignment. A valid work permit for the Netherlands is required. Professional references, a Certificate of Conduct (VOG), and a social media review (unless opted out) will be part of the final selection process in line with Hivos’ Safeguarding Policy.
Hivos is an equal opportunity employer. Individuals from diverse backgrounds, including women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, persons with disabilities, and members of racialized groups, are strongly encouraged to apply.