Front Desk/Program Officer

Front Desk/Program Officer

The Joint Vienna Institute (JVI) is inviting applications for a hybrid position combining two roles in one: Front Desk/Program Officer.

The JVI is an international organization based in Vienna, Austria. It was established as a regional training center in 1992 by the Austrian Authorities, the International Monetary Fund, and several other international organizations. The JVI provides training to public sector officials from countries in mostly from Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. Through short-term courses and workshops, JVI's objective is to strengthen economic policies by focusing on macroeconomic management, monetary and fiscal policy, financial stability, governance, and statistical systems. Emphasizing cooperation, policy relevance, and regional networking, the JVI offers a unique platform for knowledge exchange and capacity development.

This dual-function role offers the opportunity to serve as both the welcoming face of the JVI and a program officer -- supporting the smooth delivery of our courses. As the first point of contact for visitors, course participants, and staff, the Front Desk function plays a critical role in representing the JVI with professionalism and warmth. The Program Officer element of this role is key to maintaining the high-quality delivery and operational excellence that support the Institute's mission. Each role carries its own responsibilities:

Program Officer

The job encompasses a wide range of responsibilities and offers excellent potential for personal and professional growth. As a Program Officer, the successful candidate will::

• Plan and manage assigned courses, in collaboration with the Austrian Authorities, the International Monetary Fund, and various other international organizations, responding to the needs of participants and teaching staff.
• Organize social and cultural events for assigned courses, to enhance the course experience and foster networking among the participants. Some of these events will take place in the evening or occasionally at weekends.
• Coordinate occasional special events such as webinars, public lectures, or conferences that contribute to the JVI's outreach and engagement efforts.
• Work independently with a high degree of initiative while collaborating effectively as part of a diverse, professional and dedicated team.

Front/Desk Program Officer

The hybrid position combines the above-mentioned responsibilities of a Program Officer with those of a Front Desk Officer. The duties will be split between front facing reception and program administration functions. As the Front Desk / Program Officer the successful candidate will also:

• Serve as the first point of contact for all visitors, callers, course participants, and external vendors, providing professional reception experience.
• Manage all incoming deliveries and mail, including diplomatic correspondence with attention to confidentiality.
• Support the day-to-day function of the front desk through effective coordination, including ordering office supplies and maintaining a stationary inventory.

Qualifications, Skills and Experience

• A university degree or equivalent professional training.
• Proven project management and communication skills, with diplomacy and cultural awareness to coordinate courses and events in a professional, international and multicultural environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, a proven record of working collaboratively with people from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds.
• Adaptable, resourceful, and solution-oriented, with the ability to respond effectively to evolving needs and unexpected changes.
• Fluency in English; a good working knowledge of Russian and German are essential. Knowledge of Bosnian-Croatian-Montenegrin-Serbian (BCMS) is an asset.
• Preferably at least 3 years of experience, in an international organization or multistakeholder setting, including in the field of project management.
• Excellent computer skills, including MS Office and Windows. Knowledge of other programs, including TYPO3, and familiarity with AI tools are an advantage.

Salary and Benefits Package

The position is a full-time, limited-term appointment, initially for two years with the possibility of renewal. The JVI offers a competitive salary and benefits package. JVI staff members are exempt from some immigration restrictions and registration formalities.

The JVI is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and actively encourages applications from qualified candidates of all genders.

The closing date for applications is Wednesday, June 4, 2025. It is expected that the successful applicant will take up the post in early autumn.