Excel
Afaf Sito
Senior Project Assistant (CBI & IM)
Amman,NH
Summary
Highly skilled professional with extensive expertise in Cash-Based Interventions (CBIs) and Information Management (IM). Proven track record in successfully leading and managing complex humanitarian Programmes, optimizing financial operations, and streamlining data management systems. Adept at coordinating Inter-Agency efforts, developing and implementing SOPs, and enhancing team capacity as a certified CBI trainer. Demonstrated success in driving impactful initiatives across multiple field offices globally, bringing a strategic and comprehensive perspective to humanitarian response and project management. Seeking to leverage expertise in a dynamic, mission-driven organization.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
6
6
years of post-secondary education
8
8
Certifications
Work History
Senior Project Assistant (CBI & IM)
International Organization for Migration (IOM)
10.2021 - Current
- Managed the design, delivery, and development of Cash-Based Interventions (CBIs) for vulnerable groups, including refugees and migrants, optimizing monthly cash disbursement systems to ensure efficient assistance delivery.
- Led financial management of CBI activities, overseeing budgeting, financial monitoring, and ensuring compliance with project requirements. Maintained oversight of financial service providers, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Developed and implemented Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for CBIs, streamlining processes for data collection, cash implementation, and system integration, aligning with IOM standards.
- Coordinated Inter-Agency efforts, co-chairing the Food Security and Basic Needs Working Group, drafting key documents (ToRs, strategy papers, gender mainstreaming guidelines), and aligning CBI activities with broader humanitarian efforts.
- Conducted market assessments and participated in the development of the Minimum Expenditure Basket (MEB) and Survival Minimum Expenditure Basket (SMEB), contributing to the setting of appropriate transfer values for cash-based interventions.
- Managed involvement in the Common Cash Facility (CCF), including procurement of Financial Service Providers (FSPs), reviewing financial and technical proposals, managing contracts, and designing Key Performance Indicator (KPI) sheets. Enhanced financial inclusion through innovative delivery mechanisms.
- Supported refugee response and protection efforts, participating in the Cash for Protection Committee, identifying vulnerable beneficiaries (e.g., GBV, child protection), and tailoring cash assistance in alignment with SOPs.
- Standardized data management systems for CBIs, including the Refugee Response Information Management System (RRIMS), and contributed to the development of data collection tools and methods, ensuring data accuracy.
- Designed and implemented data collection surveys for targeting, needs assessments, post-distribution monitoring, and impact evaluations, ensuring informed decision-making in CBI operations.
- Provided strategic input for donor reports and proposals related to CBI interventions across sectors including Refugee Response, Protection, Livelihoods, and Health.
- Ensured accurate project documentation by meticulously reviewing reports, meeting minutes, and status updates.
- Supported senior management in strategic decision-making by providing well-researched insights into market trends and competitor analysis
- Certified CBI Trainer, delivering comprehensive training sessions across five countries (Ethiopia, Jordan, Turkiye, Somalia, and Sudan), significantly enhancing IOM's staff capacity.
- Temporary Assignment in Sudan: Supported CBI implementation during a short-term assignment, successfully distributing cash assistance to 3,500 internally displaced person (IDP) households. Collaborated with the Cash Working Group on reporting and operational guidance and contributed to the development of concept notes for MPCA interventions .
Programme Assistant – Information Management
International Organization for Migration (IOM)
01.2018 - 09.2021
- Led information gathering and coordination for the Whole of Syria (WoS) programming, including managing monthly reporting processes and providing data analysis and visualization for internal and external presentations.
- Supported Basic Needs cash distribution programs starting in 2019, including Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance (MPCA) and Winter cash assistance.
- Managed CBI databases, prepared financial documentation, verified beneficiaries, and designed data collection systems to optimize cash assistance delivery.
- Developed and maintained databases for cash-based interventions, ensuring accurate beneficiary tracking and data integrity.
- Coordinated with field teams for data collection and verification, optimizing processes for cash assistance delivery.
- Provided technical support for data analysis and reporting related to CBI activities, preparing gap analyses, PowerPoint presentations, and handouts for internal stakeholders and donors.
- Drafted narrative and financial reports, ensuring compliance with specific donor requirements.
- Regularly briefed the Project Coordinator on the status of CBI projects, providing technical support and maintaining communication with sectoral counterparts and implementing partners to ensure coordinated efforts.
- Compiled and updated key documents including humanitarian project reports, situation updates, and background information for donors, sector coordination groups, and other stakeholders.
- Ensured timely and accurate information sharing across internal units and with external partners.
- Liaised with sectoral coordination groups and participated in IM Network meetings, ensuring that information management requests related to CBIs were effectively coordinated with partner teams in the field.
- Attended the Basic Needs Working Group, the Common Cash Facility, and the Winterization Taskforce to coordinate CBI-related activities and ensure alignment with broader humanitarian efforts.
- Assisted in needs assessment and analysis, focusing on the specific challenges faced by vulnerable groups, including gender-sensitive approaches. Supported Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) activities, including data cleaning, consolidation, and analysis to facilitate the preparation of periodic reports.
- Tracked donor reporting requirements and provided alerts to IM focal points, ensuring timely submission of reports and compliance with donor expectations.
- Supported Operations and Fleet Management organizing transportation for family reunification and other assistance needs between camps and borders. Coordinated logistics, maintained close liaison with partner organizations, and ensured compliance with established SOPs for secure and efficient movements.
- Developed and executed itinerary plans for transportation movements, ensuring all administrative arrangements were in place, including security and health screening, pre-departure checks, and beneficiary data collection.
Project Assistant - Caseworker
International Organization for Migration (IOM)
09.2016 - 12.2017
- Conducted face-to-face interviews with refugees and asylum seekers as part of their resettlement process to the USA, accurately documenting biographical data and applicant claims in English.
- Recorded and relayed data regarding resettlement cases, ensuring sensitive information was handled securely and in compliance with SOPs.
- Drafted applicant claims in English for resettlement applications, maintaining accuracy and confidentiality in all documentation.
- Responded to refugee inquiries at various stages of the resettlement process, providing clear and accurate information, and performed interpretation and translation between Arabic and English.
- Conducted routine quality control checks on case files and system updates, ensuring adherence to SOPs and maintaining high-quality casework.
- Prepared and submitted statistical data to supervisors on a daily basis, supporting ongoing case management and reporting requirements.
- Assisted with various administrative tasks, including research, locating files, and data entry, to support the efficiency of the case management process.
- Temporary Assignment in Erbil, Iraq: Traveled to Erbil to perform casework duties, demonstrating flexibility and commitment to supporting the resettlement process on-site.
Project Assistant - Program Access
International Organization for Migration (IOM)
04.2014 - 09.2016
- Managed the reception, research, and review of applications for the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP), ensuring compliance with all designated priorities.
- Created new cases in the Worldwide Refugee Admissions Processing System (WRAPS), handling both paper and electronic applications, and initiated the employment verification process to determine eligibility for USRAP.
- Reviewed employment documents and identified cases of special concern, ensuring adequate and prioritized processing for eligible refugees.
- Prepared statistical reports and provided training to other personnel as needed, enhancing team efficiency and ensuring accurate case management.
- Accurately recorded and monitored correspondence, tracking case statuses and maintaining detailed records within WRAPS.
- Achievement: "The Surge" Operation (February 2016 – April 2016):
- Participated in the field operation "The Surge," an emergency response to the Syrian crisis, where IOM resettled over 10,000 Syrian refugees to the United States.
- Conducted face-to-face interviews with refugees and asylum seekers, processing cases of 5-10 individuals, and accurately recorded biographical and sensitive data in WRAPS.
- Performed form-filling tasks as part of pre-screening, ensuring that data was accurately captured and relayed to support the expedited resettlement process.
Production Team Leader
MarkaVIP – E-Marketing Company
01.2013 - 04.2014
- Led a cross-functional team to manage and optimize product content across key consumer categories, ensuring the highest standards of quality and consistency were maintained throughout the portfolio.
- Optimized content production workflows by implementing strategic task distribution and rigorous quality control measures, leading to expedited campaign timelines and increased customer engagement.
- Partnered with global buying and sourcing teams to curate precise and persuasive product information, significantly enhancing the effectiveness of e-commerce campaigns.
- Generated and delivered detailed statistical and KPI reports to senior management, offering actionable insights that informed strategic decisions and drove business growth.
- Led training initiatives for team members, elevating the quality of creative content and ensuring alignment with brand messaging and strategic objectives.
Senior Creative Writing Associate
MarkaVIP – E-Marketing Company
12.2011 - 01.2013
- Contributed to the development and optimization of product content across diverse categories, ensuring alignment with brand standards and maintaining consistency across all platforms.
- Assisted in streamlining content production workflows by supporting task distribution and quality control processes, which led to improved efficiency and enhanced content quality.
- Collaborated closely with buying and sourcing teams to gather accurate and compelling product information, playing a key role in the success of e-commerce campaigns by ensuring content accuracy and appeal.
- Prepared and analyzed statistical and KPI reports, providing insights and feedback to senior team members to inform content strategy and improve overall campaign performance.
- Supported the delivery of training sessions for junior team members, helping to elevate the quality of creative content and ensure it was consistent with brand messaging and goals.
- Participated in content review and editing processes, ensuring that all materials met high-quality standards and adhered to the established brand voice.
- Contributed to the creation of compelling marketing content, including product descriptions, promotional copy, and other creative materials, under the guidance of senior leadership
Education
Bachelor of Science - Risk Management And Insurance - Financial Sciences
The Hashemite University
Jordan 09.2005 - 09.2011
Skills
Organizational Understanding and Strategic Insight:
Proven ability to swiftly understand and navigate the organization's structure and portfolios through detailed briefs, context analysis, and reports from PRIMA, UNOCHA, DTM, and CWG, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives
Trained in global frameworks including the Global Compact for Migration (GCM), Migration Crisis Operational Framework (MCOF), Migration Governance Framework (MIGOF), Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) guidelines, and the Grand Bargain, facilitating informed decision-making and strategic planning
Data Management Skills:
Highly proficient in Microsoft Excel, with advanced skills in data management, analysis, and reporting Proven ability to utilize Excel for complex data operations essential for CBI activities
Expertise in managing and analyzing large datasets using various tools and systems, ensuring data integrity and supporting evidence-based decision-making
Teamwork and Cultural Competence:
Collaborative Teamwork: Demonstrated ability to work effectively and harmoniously in multicultural teams, fostering a collaborative environment across diverse professional backgrounds to achieve shared goals
Cultural Sensitivity: Skilled in engaging with colleagues and stakeholders from varied cultural and professional backgrounds, ensuring inclusive and respectful communication
Problem-Solving and Resilience:
Proven flexibility and creativity in planning and problem-solving, with a track record of anticipating challenges and implementing proactive solutions in high-pressure environments
Ability to maintain composure and effectiveness under stress, ensuring continued progress on project objectives despite challenging circumstances
Communication and Interpersonal Skills:
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with extensive experience engaging with diverse stakeholders, including vulnerable populations, government representatives, and international colleagues Demonstrated ability to present complex information in clear, accessible formats, ensuring effective communication across different levels of understanding
Expertise in mediating conflicts and negotiating with various parties to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes Proven capacity to interact professionally with individuals from diverse backgrounds through direct interventions with beneficiaries, consultations with government officials, and collaboration with international teams This includes significant experience as a co-chair of working groups and as a CBI trainer, where traveling and engaging with people from various countries was essential to the role
Analytical Skills:
Sharp analytical skills with a capacity to observe and assess program data, identify trends, and provide actionable insights to inform project strategies and decisions
Proven ability to draft and edit detailed reports, ensuring compliance with donor requirements and alignment with organizational best practices
Software
PowerBI
Tableau
R language
KOBO Toolbox
NVIVO
Adobe InDesign
Languages
Arabic, Chechen
Native language
English
Proficient
C2
Certification
Project Development
Timeline
Senior Project Assistant (CBI & IM)
International Organization for Migration (IOM)
10.2021 - Current
Programme Assistant – Information Management
International Organization for Migration (IOM)
01.2018 - 09.2021
Project Assistant - Caseworker
International Organization for Migration (IOM)
09.2016 - 12.2017
Project Assistant - Program Access
International Organization for Migration (IOM)
04.2014 - 09.2016
Production Team Leader
MarkaVIP – E-Marketing Company
01.2013 - 04.2014
Senior Creative Writing Associate
MarkaVIP – E-Marketing Company
12.2011 - 01.2013
Bachelor of Science - Risk Management And Insurance - Financial Sciences
The Hashemite University
09.2005 - 09.2011
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