IOM Türkiye / Published Jun 23, 2026

Programme Support Associate (SME Development)

On-site8. Decent work and economic growth

Location: Türkiye; Ankara
Duration: 365 days; Possible extension
Deadline: Jul 19, 2026; 4 days left
Assignments: 1; available position(s)
Expected start: Sep 12, 2026
Volunteer category: Associate UCoS from Apr2026; International

Sustainable Development Goal

8. Decent work and economic growth

Assignment

What the volunteer will do

Mission and objectives

Established in 1951, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is the leading intergovernmental organization in the field of migration and is committed to the principle that humane and orderly migration benefits migrants and society. IOM is part of the United Nations system, as a related organization. IOM supports migrants across the world, developing effective responses to the shifting dynamics of migration and, as such, is a key source of advice on migration policy and practice. The organization works in emergency situations, developing the resilience of all people on the move, and particularly those in situations of vulnerability, as well as building capacity within governments to manage all forms and impacts of mobility. The Organization is guided by the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, including upholding human rights for all. Respect for the rights, dignity and well-being of migrants remains paramount.

Context

This assignment is implemented under IOM Türkiye’s programmes supporting labour market integration, SME development, and voluntary return preparedness, including the UK FCDO-funded formalization project and the Business Advisory Bureaus (BABs) initiative. The UN Volunteer will be based in Ankara and support the establishment and operationalization of Business Advisory Bureaus in collaboration with local stakeholders such as Chambers of Commerce, governorates, and private sector actors. These bureaus aim to strengthen the capacities of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), promote formal job creation, and facilitate access to business development services and trade linkages. The assignment will contribute to enhancing economic opportunities for vulnerable populations, including Syrians under Temporary Protection and host communities, while supporting broader efforts to promote sustainable livelihoods and informed decision-making in the context of voluntary return. The UN Volunteer will work within a dynamic team environment and engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including government institutions, private sector representatives, and implementing partners.

Task description

Under the direct supervision of the Project Officer (Labour Market Integration and Formalization), the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks: - Support the establishment and day-to-day functioning of Business Advisory Bureaus (BABs) in coordination with local partners - Assist in organizing and facilitating trainings, workshops, and B2B networking events for SMEs - Contribute to outreach and communication efforts to engage entrepreneurs and business owners - Support data collection, documentation, and reporting on activities and results - Assist in coordinating with stakeholders including Chambers of Commerce, local authorities, and implementing partners - Participate in field visits and provide logistical and administrative support to project activities - Contribute to the preparation of briefing notes, presentations, and internal reports - Support monitoring of SME support activities, including tracking participation and feedback - Assist in identifying good practices and lessons learned from programme implementation During the first month of the assignment, the UN Volunteer will work closely with his/her direct supervisor to finalize an agreed-upon work plan. The work plan should outline key objectives and activities and include regular check‑ins with the supervisor to review progress and receive performance feedback.

Requirements

Eligibility and qualifications

Age: 18 - 80
Required experience: 1 years
Education: Bachelor's degree
Nationality: Open to all nationalities

Languages

EnglishRequired

Fluent

Areas of expertise

AdministrationProject management, programme development, strategyFinance, accounting

Skills and experience

Demonstrated interest or experience (up to 3 years) in: - Private sector development/SME support - Economic inclusion/livelihoods programmes Skills in: - Communication and stakeholder engagement - Basic data collection and reporting - Organization of events and coordination tasks

Competencies and values

Accountability Adaptability and Flexibility Building Trust Client Orientation Commitment and Motivation Commitment to Continuous Learning Communication Creativity Empowering Others Ethics and Values Integrity Judgement and Decision-making Knowledge Sharing Leadership Managing Performance Planning and Organizing Professionalism Respect for Diversity Self-Management Technological Awareness Vision Working in Teams

Notes

Additional information

Living conditions and remarks

Türkiye offers relatively comfortable living conditions, particularly in major cities such as Ankara, the capital city, which has well-developed infrastructure, reliable public services, and a wide range of housing options. Ankara experiences a continental climate, with hot, dry summers and cold winters, occasionally with snowfall. As the administrative and political center of the country, the city hosts a diverse international and local population and provides access to government institutions, universities, healthcare facilities, and cultural amenities. Security conditions are generally stable, and international personnel can access both public and private healthcare services. While English is used in professional environments, basic Turkish is beneficial for daily interactions and integration into the local context. The UN Volunteer will be based in Ankara and be responsible for arranging his/her own housing and other living essentials. The Summary of UNV Entitlement (International Associate): All paid in USD currency - Current Monthly Living Allowance (MLA): USD 2,105 - Private insurance: Health, dental, life, and dismemberment coverage by CIGNA - Entry allowance (one-time payment): USD 3,500 - Dependent allowance and insurance are provided based on eligibility criteria. - Exit allowance: USD 225 per month, and upon the satisfactory completion of assignment - Annual leave: 2.5 days accrued per calendar month - Free access to different learning platforms and the UN & UNV network Notes: 1) The allowances are in no way to be understood as compensation, reward, or salary in exchange for the volunteer work. 2) It's important to note that UNV assignments are volunteer assignments, not employment. The purpose of the allowances and entitlements paid to UN Volunteers is to enable UN Volunteers to sustain a secure standard of living at the duty stations in line with United Nations standards without incurring personal costs. 3) You can check full entitlements at the duty station: https://app.unv.org/calculator 4) Please read the complete UN Volunteer Conditions of Service is available at https://explore.unv.org/cos

Inclusivity statement

United Nations Volunteers is an equal opportunity programme that welcomes applications from qualified professionals. UNV is committed to diversity, human rights, and individual dignity.

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