Senior Assistant, Institute for Educational Development

Aga Khan University (AKU), Pakistan’s first private international university established in 1983, is seeking a Senior Assistant for its Institute for Educational Development (AKU-IED) based in Karachi. The Institute focuses on educational reform and improvement, aiming to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of schools and educational institutions through innovation, policy development, research, and training. This is a grant-funded contractual role for twenty months, offering an opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects in collaboration with key stakeholders such as UNICEF and government entities. The Senior Assistant will provide essential administrative and logistical support to the project implementation team, ensuring smooth coordination of events, travel, and communication.

Key Responsibilities

- Provide secretarial and administrative support to the Manager in the daily operations of the project.
- Coordinate with project staff for field visits and liaise with relevant departments (travel, security) to arrange air tickets, accommodation, and other travel logistics.
- Organize logistics for events such as meetings and workshops held at AKU-IED, including training materials, venue arrangements, and refreshments.
- Maintain continuous communication with Provincial Coordinators to coordinate events, travel, and information gathering.
- Facilitate communication by dispatching letters and making phone calls to project stakeholders as needed.
- Keep accurate records of project documentation, including financial expenses.
- Manage stationery, inventory, and miscellaneous items required for project activities.
- Support the project team during field visits by scheduling meetings with UNICEF and government stakeholders and arranging local travel.
- Coordinate with the UNICEF provincial office regarding nominations, invitations, and logistical arrangements for capacity-building workshops and meetings.

Required Qualifications

- A bachelor’s degree from an HEC-recognized or reputable foreign university/institution.
- At least one year of demonstrated experience in roles such as Administrative Assistant or Research Assistant.
- Proficiency in English, both oral and written.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to coordinate and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
- Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality.
- Willingness and ability to undertake travel as required.
- Capability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications and Additional Information

- Prior working experience with Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) institutions is highly desirable.
- Comprehensive employment reference checks will be conducted as part of the recruitment process.

Aga Khan University is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. The University upholds standards that promote respectful relationships among its faculty, staff, trainees, volunteers, beneficiaries, and wider communities, including vulnerable groups. Candidates who share this commitment are encouraged to apply.

This position offers a unique chance to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to educational development and reform in Pakistan and the region. The Senior Assistant will play a vital role in supporting project implementation and ensuring effective collaboration with key partners.