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, and anti-corruption & ethics. 

Position: Program Associate, Armenia
Reports to: Head of Office, Armenia

Scope: CIPE is seeking a full-time Program Associate based in Yerevan, Armenia for an anticipated five-year engagement on the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)-funded project, “Elections and Political Processes Activity in Armenia (EPPA).” The project will be implemented through the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening (CEPPS). The EPPA project will support Armenia’s democratic progress by addressing key elements needed to modernize Armenia’s democratic institutions and solidify a democratic culture.

The Program Associate is responsible for providing programmatic, administrative, and research support for CIPE activities under the EPPA program. The ideal candidate will be able to handle multiple detail-oriented tasks, have a demonstrable interest in economic development and democratic reform in Armenia, and work well as part of a diverse team and within a dynamic international organization.
This full-time position has a start date in October 2024, contingent on the receipt of US-government funding.

Responsibilities

• Provide administrative and programmatic support for CIPE activities under the EPPA program in Yerevan and marzes (regions) of Armenia, as directed by the CIPE Head of Office, Armenia, Public Private Dialogue Specialist, and the Private Sector Engagement Specialist.
• Collect offers/bids/quotations from vendors and assist CIPE team in conducting tenders.
• Draft contracts/grant agreements and prepare procurement related documents as per CIPE/USAID regulations.
• Collect supporting documents from vendors for direct or contract/grant related payments according to CIPE/USAID rules and regulations.
• Maintain communication with field personnel, local project partners, consultants, and other stakeholders to collect project updates and ensure smooth project implementation.
• Create and maintain electronic and hard copies of program, financial, and contract files.
• Process documents for signature, complete travel arrangements, and organize local meeting logistics.
• Assist the Head of Office, Public Private Dialogue Specialist, and Private Sector Engagement Specialist in writing and compiling narrative and financial reports.
• Conduct background research for project proposals and reports.
• Contribute to an organizational culture of innovation, integrity, and high performance.
• Coordinate travel arrangements and local meeting logistics.
• Contribute to an organizational culture of innovation, integrity and high performance.
• Adhere to appropriate CIPE, USAID, and U.S. federal policies and procedures.

• Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, Business/Management, Economics, Finance, Political Science, Public Policy, Law, or a related field.
• At least two years of administrative office and/ or programmatic experience; experience supporting international development programs is preferred.
• Excellent knowledge of written and spoken English and Armenian languages; knowledge of written and spoken Russian language is preferred.
• Demonstrated strong organizational, interpersonal, critical thinking, analytical and communication skills.
• Superior organization skills and dedication to completing multiple projects in a timely manner.
• Ability to handle multiple, detail-oriented tasks simultaneously with limited supervision.
• Demonstrated research skills.
• Ability to take initiative and to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in MS Office, specifically Word, Excel, and Teams.
• Willingness and ability to travel to regions of Armenia as needed