Program Associate Philippines

The Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) strengthens democracy around the globe through private enterprise and market-oriented reform. CIPE is one of the four core institutes of the National Endowment for Democracy and an affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Since 1983, CIPE has worked with business leaders, policymakers, and civil society to build the institutions vital to a democratic society. CIPE’s key program areas include enterprise ecosystems, democratic governance, business advocacy, anti-corruption & ethics, and trade.

Position:                     Program Associate

Position Type:           Full-time, Program Support Position

Location:                   Asia Pacific Regional Hub, Philippines

Duration:                   Initial one-year term with possible renewal

Reporting to:             Program Officers under the overall supervision of the country director


Position Summary

The Program Associate will provide comprehensive administrative, project monitoring, and program support services to multiple Program Officers managing economic freedom, expanding opportunity, and economic resilience initiatives. This position serves as the programmatic backbone ensuring efficient program administration, accurate project tracking, and systematic compliance with CIPE and donor requirements.

Tasks and Activities

1. Program Implementation, Grant Management and Partner Coordination

• Assist in maintaining comprehensive program documentation systems including project files, partner databases, activity tracking tools, and stakeholder contact information
• Assist in program logistics including meeting scheduling, event coordination, travel arrangements, and venue management for workshops, conferences, and stakeholder dialogues
• Assist in managing program calendars, coordinate schedules, and send appointment reminders ensuring efficient time management for Program Staff and key stakeholders
• Support organization of stakeholder meetings, workshops, and conferences including participant coordination, materials preparation, and logistical arrangements
• Assist in tracking approved program activities, deliverables, and timelines against work plans, identifying potential delays or implementation challenges
• Maintain program tracking systems documenting progress toward outcomes, milestone achievement, and performance indicator data
• Support data collection activities, coordinate with implementing partners on reporting requirements, and compile information for performance assessments
• Assist in preparation of progress reports, quarterly updates, and annual assessments highlighting achievements, challenges, and lessons learned

2. Program Budget and Financial Tracking

• Support Program Staff in preparation and monitoring of program budgets, ensuring alignment with approved work plans and donor requirements
• Assist in tracking program expenditures, process partner payment requests, and maintain accurate budget records using organizational financial systems and donor-specific formats
• Assist in monitoring budget utilization rates, identify potential variances, and alert Program Officers to budget issues requiring attention or reallocation decisions
• Assist in coordinating with Grants and Finance Teams to ensure accurate and timely processing of payments, reimbursements, and financial transactions for program activities
• Assist in preparation of financial reports, budget narratives, and expenditure summaries for donor reporting and organizational management
• Ensure compliance with organizational financial procedures, donor requirements, and audit standards through systematic documentation and record-keeping
• Support internal and external audit processes by providing required documentation, coordinating auditor access, and tracking audit recommendation implementation

3. Administrative Support

• Maintain electronic filing systems, update databases, and ensure program documents are properly organized and accessible to relevant staff members
• Prepare and format documents including reports, correspondence, presentations, and training materials using Microsoft Office applications and organizational templates
• Provide backup administrative support to other program staff during absences or peak workload periods

Qualifications
Education: A bachelor's degree in social sciences, public policy, development studies, international relations, economics, or a related field is typically required. Advanced or master’s degree is highly desirable.

Experience: Minimum one (1) year experience in project management, private sector development, and/or advocacy and research. Experience working with business associations, NGOs, advocacy groups or civil society organizations, international organizations, government or donor-funded projects, is highly desirable.

Policy Analysis Skills: Experience in conducting policy research, writing policy briefs, and providing recommendations for policy change on topics such as economic development, governance and anti-corruption, economic security, digital economy, international trade and investment policy or international development.

Research and Analytical Skills: Strong research skills to analyze policies, identify gaps, and propose recommendations for strengthening private sector participation in policy reforms. Experience in conducting policy research and stakeholder consultations.

Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills are necessary for effectively communicating with stakeholders, crafting persuasive messaging, and disseminating accurate information suitable for a global audience. Ability to tailor messages for different audiences and channels

Collaboration and Networking: Demonstrated ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector organizations, media organizations, academic institutions.

Ethical Standards: Commitment to upholding ethical standards and integrity in all aspects of work, including the handling of sensitive information and engagement with diverse stakeholders.