Program Assistant - Administrative & Client Support

World Bank Group; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A global development institution is seeking a Program Assistant in Johannesburg to provide operational and administrative support. The role involves managing schedules, preparing documentation, and enhancing efficiency. Candidates should have a high school diploma and five years of relevant experience, with proficiency in office software. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful development efforts in South Africa.

Benefits

Retirement plan

Medical, life and disability insurance

Paid leave including parental leave

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years of relevant administrative experience.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
• Experience in coordinating meetings and travel arrangements.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive administrative support to the CAJZA team.
• Prepare, edit, and format documents and reports.
• Manage electronic and physical filing systems.

Skills

Strong organizational skills

Attention to detail

Excellent communication skills

Proficiency in MS Office Suite

Interpersonal skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

MS Office Suite

Online collaboration tools (e.g., Teams, SharePoint)

Job description

Program Assistant - Administrative & Client Support

• Job #: req35057
• Organization: IFC
• Sector: Administration/Office Support
• Grade: GC
• Term Duration: 3 years 0 months
• Recruitment Type: Local Recruitment
• Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
• Required Language(s): English
• Preferred Language(s):
• Closing Date: 12/12/2025 (MM/DD/YYYY) at 11:59pm UTC

Build a career with impact. Working at the World Bank Group (WBG) provides a unique opportunity to help countries solve their greatest development challenges. As one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, the WBG is a unique partnership of five global institutions dedicated to ending poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. With 189 member countries and more than 120 offices worldwide, the WBG works with public and private sector partners, investing in groundbreaking projects and using data, research, and technology to develop solutions to the most urgent global challenges.

The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging private sector solutions, and mobilizing private capital to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. For more information, visit: https://www.ifc.org

The South Africa (CAJZA) team is part of the Southern Africa (CAJ unit) at IFC. Our unit covers the program in South Africa and the subregion. Our team is united by core values of Impact, Integrity, Respect, Teamwork, and Innovation. Together, we tackle the world’s toughest challenges, and advance social and economic inclusion.

IFC is seeking Program Assistant, based in Johannesburg, South Africa, to provide proactive operational and administrative support to the Country Office. This pivotal role ensures seamless coordination, enhances efficiency, and contributes to IFC’s mission of driving impactful private sector development in South Africa.

Duties and Accountabilities

• Provide comprehensive administrative support to the CAJZA team, including scheduling meetings, managing calendars, and coordinating travel arrangements to ensure efficient operations.
• Prepare, edit, and format documents, presentations, and reports with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail, adhering to IFC standards.
• Manage and maintain electronic and physical filing systems to ensure easy access to information and compliance with IFC record-keeping policies.
• Coordinate logistics for team events, workshops, and conferences, including venue booking, catering arrangements, and participant communication.
• Monitor and track departmental budgets and expenses, ensuring accurate reporting and adherence to financial guidelines.
• Support procurement processes by preparing purchase requisitions, tracking orders, and liaising with vendors to ensure timely delivery of goods and services.
• Utilize online collaboration tools to facilitate seamless communication and document sharing among team members and stakeholders.
• Proactively identify and implement process improvements to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of administrative operations within the CAJ unit.
• Uphold IFC values by fostering an inclusive and collaborative work environment, demonstrating professionalism, and maintaining confidentiality in all tasks.

Selection Criteria

Preference will be given to local talent, that is, applicants that are authorized to work in the duty station for any employer. Internal applicants may apply per existing guidelines.

• High school diploma or equivalent, with a minimum of five years of relevant administrative experience in a professional setting.
• Demonstrated proficiency in office software, including the MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and online collaboration tools (e.g., Teams, SharePoint).
• Proven ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively, with strong organizational and time management skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in documentation, scheduling, and communication.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to draft professional correspondence and interact effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in coordinating meetings, events, and travel arrangements, including familiarity with international travel logistics.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural and team-oriented environment.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and maintain confidentiality.
• Proactive problem‑solving skills, with the ability to anticipate needs and propose solutions in a fast‑paced environment.
• Commitment to IFC’s mission and values, including inclusivity, integrity, and a focus on delivering high‑quality support to advance organizational goals.

WBG Culture Attributes

• 1. Sense of urgency: Anticipate and quickly respond to the needs of internal and external stakeholders.
• 2. Thoughtful risk‑taking: Challenge the status quo and push boundaries to achieve greater impact.
• 3. Empowerment and accountability: Empower yourself and others to act and hold each other accountable for results.

World Bank Group Core Competencies

The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan; medical, life and disability insurance; and paid leave, including parental leave, as well as reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity and inclusive employer with a dedicated and committed workforce, and do not discriminate based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.

Learn more about working at the World Bank and IFC, including our values and inspiring stories.