Business Support Assistant (Graphic Designer) - SSA4

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Business Support Assistant (Graphic Designer) - SSA4
Company: World Food Programme (WFP)
Location: Islamabad, Pakistan
Job Type: FULL_TIME
Category: Creative & Media / Administrative Support
Date Posted: 2026-01-30
Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for enhancing WFP's visual communication and information management through expert graphic design and video editing.
• The Business Support Assistant will be instrumental in modernizing the country office's visual presence across various knowledge products, reports, briefs, and digital platforms.
• Key responsibilities include creating compelling visual assets that support advocacy efforts, donor visibility, and the overall narrative of WFP's mission in Pakistan.
• The position demands a strong understanding of design principles and proficiency in industry-standard software to produce high-quality, impactful visual content.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Business Support Assistant," the core responsibilities and required skills clearly indicate a specialized Graphic Designer role within an administrative support framework. The SSA4 contract type suggests a fixed-term engagement, common for project-based or specialized support roles in international organizations. This is not a typical Revenue Operations, Sales Operations, or GTM role, but rather a creative support function within a large humanitarian organization.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Support the Communications unit with daily information management and graphic design tasks as assigned by the supervisor, including creating visually appealing reports, advocacy notes, infographics, briefs, PowerPoint presentations, social media posts, and templates.
• Function as the in-house video editor for small documentaries and social media content, contributing to engaging storytelling and campaign outreach.
• Contribute to the successful implementation of the Communication and Advocacy Strategy by ensuring high-quality design of knowledge products and visually appealing internal and external communication materials.
• Develop custom infographics for the Vulnerability Analysis and Mapping (VAM), Programme, Partnerships, and Supply Chain teams upon specific requests.
• Liaise with provincial offices to support the development and approval process of donor visibility materials for effective field-level implementation, ensuring compliance with WFP's branding guidelines.
• Upgrade the design of existing briefs and advocacy notes within the 'Briefing package' regularly shared by the Country Director with partners and donors.
• Utilize graphic design and high-quality visuals to build a compelling narrative of WFP as a natural partner for food, nutrition, and logistics support for the government of Pakistan.
• Collaborate with the Vulnerability Analysis and Mapping (VAM) unit on developing an interactive, visual map of WFP's operations.
• Perform any other tasks aligned with the role and expertise as assigned by the supervisor to support WFP's communication and operational objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design, content production, and strategic communication support. The emphasis on "knowledge products" and "advocacy notes" suggests a need for clear, data-driven visual storytelling. The requirement to "build the narrative of WFP" indicates a strategic communication component beyond just aesthetic design.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Completion of secondary school education is mandatory.
• A post-secondary certificate in Communications, International Relations, Mass Media, Business Administration, Political Science, or a similar field is considered a strong advantage.
• A Bachelor’s degree in Communications, International Relations, Mass Media, Business Administration, Political Science, or a similar field is desirable.

Experience:

• A minimum of 4 years of relevant experience working in graphic design is required.
• A solid portfolio showcasing successful deliverables and a proven track record in design projects is essential.
• Experience with and knowledge of design works within the development or humanitarian sector is preferred.
• Previous work experience with WFP or other UN agencies is considered an advantage.

Required Skills:

• Expert proficiency in graphic design software, including Photoshop, Adobe Premiere, InDesign, Publisher, Canva, and Wochit.
• Strong visual design skills with an understanding of layout, typography, color theory, and composition.
• Ability to translate complex information into clear, engaging infographics and visual assets.
• Experience in creating and editing video content for various platforms, including social media.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Strong team player with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Proficiency in information management and content production for digital and print media.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in developing donor visibility materials and adhering to branding guidelines.
• Familiarity with data visualization techniques and creating interactive maps.
• Understanding of communication and advocacy strategies within the humanitarian sector.
• Fluency in Urdu, in addition to English.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for specific software expertise (Photoshop, Adobe Premiere, InDesign, Publisher, Canva, Wochit) is a critical technical qualification. The emphasis on a "solid portfolio" means candidates must be prepared to demonstrate their capabilities through visual examples of past work, particularly in the context of humanitarian or development communications.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio demonstrating a strong command of graphic design principles and software proficiency (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, etc.).
• Case studies or examples showcasing the creation of reports, briefs, infographics, presentations, and social media assets, highlighting the problem, solution, and impact.
• Visual examples of video editing projects, including short documentaries or social media clips, demonstrating narrative storytelling and technical execution.
• Samples of donor visibility materials or branding work that adhere to specific organizational guidelines and objectives.
• Examples of how complex data or information was translated into clear, engaging visual formats, such as infographics or data visualizations.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to document design processes, from concept development to final delivery, ensuring clarity and reproducibility.
• Understanding of workflow management for design projects, including client briefs, revisions, and final approvals.
• Familiarity with version control and asset management for design files to maintain organized project archives.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a graphic design role, the portfolio is paramount. It's not just about showcasing pretty pictures but demonstrating the ability to solve communication problems visually, understand client needs (in this case, internal WFP units), and deliver effective results. This section emphasizes the need for candidates to curate their portfolio to align with the specific requirements mentioned in the job description, such as infographics, reports, and donor visibility materials.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a Special Services Agreement (SSA) at Level 4 (SSA4) with the World Food Programme, compensation is typically based on a daily rate determined by WFP's internal salary scales for SSA contracts in Pakistan, taking into account the candidate's qualifications and relevant experience. Based on typical UN SSA rates for a mid-level support role in Islamabad, Pakistan, a competitive daily rate would likely fall within the range of PKR 8,000 - 15,000 per day. This translates to an approximate monthly gross income of PKR 192,000 - 360,000 for a standard 24-working-day month.

Benefits:

• Contract Duration: A fixed-term contract of 2 months and 29 days, providing a focused opportunity to contribute to specific projects.
• Professional Development: Access to WFP's resources for personal and professional development, including training, accreditation, coaching, and mentorship programs.
• Inclusive Work Environment: Opportunity to work in a highly inclusive, diverse, and multicultural working environment, fostering collaboration and mutual respect.
• Impactful Work: Contribution to a globally recognized humanitarian organization, directly impacting lives and building pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity.
• Potential for Mobility: While this role is fixed-term, WFP's career path offers opportunities for internal mobility across country, regional, and global offices.
• Holiday Entitlement: As per SSA contract terms, typically includes paid leave days accrued based on the duration of the contract.

Working Hours: The standard working hours for this position are likely to be 40 hours per week, typically from Monday to Friday, aligning with WFP's standard office schedule in Islamabad. Flexibility may be required on occasion to meet project deadlines or urgent communication needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The SSA contract type means benefits like health insurance, pension, and paid time off may differ from standard UN staff contracts. Typically, SSA rates are inclusive of all benefits. The salary estimate is based on general knowledge of UN SSA rates for this level in Pakistan and should be confirmed with WFP. The duration of just under three months suggests a project-specific need.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: International Humanitarian Aid / Food Assistance. WFP operates in complex, often challenging environments globally, delivering life-saving assistance and working towards long-term food security solutions. Its mission is to save lives in emergencies and use food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability, and prosperity.

Company Size: WFP is the world's largest humanitarian organization, with a global workforce of tens of thousands of employees across numerous country offices, regional bureaus, and headquarters. This scale offers immense opportunities for collaboration and learning from diverse expertise.

Founded: The World Food Programme was established in 1961 by the UN General Assembly and FAO. It has since grown into a leading global force in fighting hunger and promoting food security.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of the Partnerships, Communications & Reporting Unit within the WFP Country Office in Islamabad.
• This unit likely comprises communications specialists, reporting officers, partnership focal points, and potentially advocacy experts.
• The Graphic Designer will report directly to the Communications Officer, working closely with them and other unit members.
• Collaboration will extend to other units within the Country Office, including VAM, Programme, Supply Chain, Admin, and HR, as well as provincial offices.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Storytelling: WFP emphasizes using data and evidence to inform its operations and communications, requiring designers to translate complex information into accessible visuals.
• Human-Centered Approach: The organization's work is fundamentally about people; communications and design should reflect the dignity and resilience of the communities WFP serves.
• Collaborative Workflow: Design requests will likely come from various teams, requiring a collaborative approach to understand needs, provide creative solutions, and ensure alignment with WFP's strategic objectives.
• Brand Consistency: Maintaining WFP's global brand identity while adapting it for local contexts is a key aspect of the design process.

Company Website: https://www.wfp.org

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding WFP's mission as a humanitarian organization is key. The culture is driven by a commitment to saving lives and alleviating suffering, which should be reflected in the candidate's approach to design and communication. The "Nobel Peace Prize Laureate" status underscores the organization's global impact and reputation.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level support function (SSA4), focusing on specialized technical skills in graphic design and video editing. It's not a "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations" role in the traditional sense, but rather a vital creative support function within a large operational entity. The focus is on executing communication strategies through visual mediums.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to the Communications Officer, who oversees the unit's communication and reporting activities. This provides a clear line of management and guidance.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's impact is measured by their ability to enhance the clarity, effectiveness, and visual appeal of WFP Pakistan's communications. This includes:

• Improving the understanding of WFP's work among donors, partners, and the public.
• Strengthening WFP's brand identity and visibility.
• Supporting advocacy efforts through compelling visual narratives.
• Facilitating knowledge sharing and internal communication through well-designed reports and presentations.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in graphic design, video editing, and information visualization within the humanitarian context.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain exposure to various WFP programs (VAM, Programme, Supply Chain) by supporting their communication needs, broadening understanding of the organization's operations.
• Portfolio Development: Build a robust portfolio of impactful work for a globally recognized humanitarian organization, which can be a significant asset for future career opportunities in design, communications, or international development.
• Networking: Establish professional connections within WFP Pakistan and potentially with other UN agencies.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not a traditional "operations" role, the impact of this position is directly tied to the operational effectiveness of WFP's communication strategy. The growth opportunities are more about skill enhancement and portfolio building within a specialized creative field, rather than moving into management or broader operational strategy roles within WFP.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in WFP's Country Office in Islamabad, Pakistan. This is likely a professional office environment, typical of international organizations, characterized by a mix of open-plan areas and private offices, designed to facilitate collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): Islamabad, Pakistan. This is the capital city, offering urban amenities and a central location for national operations.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office is designed to encourage interaction between different units and departments, facilitating the request and delivery of design services.
• Tools and Technology: Access to standard office equipment, reliable internet, and potentially specialized hardware or software for design and video editing will be provided.
• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with the Communications Officer, communications team, and various program/support units seeking design assistance. Opportunities to present work and receive feedback.
• Cultural Diversity: Working within a UN agency means interacting with colleagues from diverse national and cultural backgrounds, fostering an inclusive and multicultural workplace.

Work Schedule: Standard working hours (likely 40 hours/week, Monday-Friday) will apply, with the understanding that occasional flexibility may be needed to meet critical deadlines for reports, campaigns, or donor events. This schedule allows for focused work on design projects and collaboration with teams during their working hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role in Islamabad is important. Candidates should be prepared for a typical office environment within a large international NGO. The emphasis on collaboration means the designer needs to be approachable and responsive to requests from various departments.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Applications will be reviewed based on qualifications, experience, and the strength of the submitted CV and Cover Letter.
• Portfolio Review: A critical stage will involve the evaluation of the candidate's graphic design and video editing portfolio. Candidates may be asked to provide specific examples relevant to the job description's requirements (e.g., infographics, reports, social media visuals).
• Technical Assessment/Test: Shortlisted candidates may be required to complete a practical design or video editing test to assess their skills in real-time or under a time constraint. This could involve creating a specific visual asset or editing a short video clip.
• Interview Panel: Candidates will likely undergo one or more interviews with the hiring manager (Communications Officer) and potentially other members of the Partnerships, Communications & Reporting unit or HR. Questions will focus on technical skills, past experience, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit.
• Final Selection: Based on the overall assessment, including the interview and any technical tests.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select your strongest work that best aligns with the job requirements. Include examples of reports, infographics, presentations, social media graphics, and any relevant video editing work.
• Showcase Impact: For each portfolio piece, briefly explain the objective, your role, the tools used, and the outcome or impact. Quantify results if possible (e.g., "increased engagement by X%").
• Demonstrate Versatility: Include a range of styles and types of projects to show adaptability.
• Highlight Software Proficiency: Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates expertise in Photoshop, InDesign, Premiere Pro, Canva, etc.
• Organize Clearly: Present your portfolio in a professional, easy-to-navigate format (e.g., a dedicated website, PDF, or organized cloud storage link).

Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate Design Tasks: Be prepared for a practical exercise. Practice creating infographics from data, designing a social media campaign graphic, or mock-up a report cover.
• Video Editing Scenarios: Consider how you would edit a short testimonial or a brief overview of a WFP project. Familiarize yourself with common editing tasks and storytelling techniques.
• Problem-Solving: Think about how you would approach a design request from a non-designer, how you would handle constructive criticism, or how you would manage multiple urgent design requests simultaneously.
• WFP Context: Research WFP's current campaigns, recent reports, and communication style in Pakistan to understand their visual language and messaging.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is the most critical element for this role. Candidates must be ready to present it effectively and discuss their creative process. A practical assessment is highly probable given the technical nature of the role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Graphic Design Software:
  • Adobe Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, and creating complex visual compositions.
  • Adobe InDesign: For layout and typesetting, essential for reports, briefs, and publications.
  • Adobe Premiere Pro: For video editing, including cutting, sequencing, adding effects, and exporting for various platforms.
  • Microsoft Publisher: Potentially for simpler document layouts and templates.
  • Canva: For quick creation of social media graphics, presentations, and other visual assets, especially for less complex tasks or rapid deployment.
• Video Editing Software:
  • Wochit: A platform often used for creating social media videos quickly, integrating news content and visual elements.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly a data analysis role, the candidate will need to understand how their designs contribute to communication goals. They may need to interpret basic analytics on social media engagement for visual content.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role, as it's focused on creative content production rather than customer relationship management or process automation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the listed software is non-negotiable. The inclusion of Canva and Wochit suggests a need for both high-end professional design and rapid content creation for digital channels. Candidates should be able to articulate their experience and workflow with each of these tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Humanity: A core WFP value, emphasizing empathy and dedication to helping those in need. Design work should reflect the human element of WFP's mission.
• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all work, including accurate representation of information through visuals and transparent communication.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams and individuals across units and geographical locations to achieve shared goals. The designer must be a team player.
• Commitment: Dedication to delivering high-quality work, meeting deadlines, and contributing to WFP's overarching mission with passion and professionalism.
• Inclusion: Fostering an environment where diversity is respected and valued. Design work should be sensitive to cultural nuances and promote inclusivity.

Collaboration Style:

• Responsive and Proactive: Expected to respond promptly to design requests, offer creative solutions, and proactively suggest visual improvements.
• Consultative: Engage with requesters to fully understand their needs, target audience, and communication objectives before commencing design work.
• Feedback-Oriented: Open to receiving and incorporating constructive feedback on designs to ensure the final product meets expectations.
• Knowledge Sharing: Willing to share design best practices and insights with colleagues, contributing to a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the communications team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of and alignment with WFP's core values. The ability to collaborate effectively, particularly with non-designers, is crucial for success in this role.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Demands: Managing numerous design requests from different units simultaneously, each with varying priorities and deadlines.
• Translating Complex Data: Effectively visualizing complex humanitarian data and program information in an accessible and compelling manner for diverse audiences.
• Adhering to Brand Guidelines: Consistently applying WFP's global branding across all outputs while adapting for local context and specific campaign needs.
• Working in a Fast-Paced Environment: The humanitarian sector often requires rapid response and content creation, demanding agility and efficiency.
• Remote Coordination: Liaising effectively with provincial offices and teams who may be geographically dispersed.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Techniques: Opportunity to refine skills in specialized areas of graphic design and video editing through WFP's development programs.
• Humanitarian Communications: Gain in-depth knowledge of communication strategies and best practices within the international humanitarian sector.
• Cross-Cultural Collaboration: Enhance skills in working with diverse teams and understanding different cultural perspectives.
• Project Management Basics: Develop skills in managing design projects from brief to completion, including stakeholder management and timeline adherence.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should acknowledge potential challenges and frame them as opportunities for skill development. Demonstrating a proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous learning will be highly valued.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for taking a complex piece of data or information and turning it into an engaging infographic. Walk me through a specific example from your portfolio." (Assesses data visualization and process thinking)
• "How would you approach designing a social media campaign graphic for WFP Pakistan, considering the target audience and the organization's mission?" (Assesses strategic design and audience awareness)
• "Imagine you receive urgent design requests from three different units simultaneously. How would you prioritize and manage these tasks to ensure all deadlines are met?" (Assesses prioritization and time management)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for the World Food Programme, and how do your design skills align with our mission of fighting hunger?" (Assesses motivation and alignment with WFP values)
• "Describe a time you had to collaborate with a team member who had a different creative vision than yours. How did you reach a consensus?" (Assesses collaboration and conflict resolution)
• "How do you stay updated on the latest design trends and software, and how would you apply them to WFP's communication needs?" (Assesses continuous learning and innovation)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each piece, tell a story: What was the challenge? What was your solution? What was the impact?
• Focus on Relevance: Highlight examples that directly match the requirements of this role (infographics, reports, social media, donor visibility).
• Technical Clarity: Be prepared to discuss the software and techniques used for each project.
• Conciseness: Present your strongest work efficiently. Aim for 3-5 key projects that highlight your range and capabilities.
• Interactive Elements: If possible, use a digital format that allows for smooth navigation and quick access to different pieces.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for not just technical skill but also an understanding of WFP's mission, strong communication abilities, and a collaborative spirit. Demonstrating how your design work contributes to WFP's objectives will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Business Support Assistant (Graphic Designer) position:

• Submit Your Application: Apply exclusively through the WFP online recruitment system (Workday) via the provided link. Ensure your profile is complete and accurate.
• Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:
  • CV: Highlight your graphic design experience, software proficiency, relevant education, and any experience in the humanitarian or development sector. Use keywords from the job description.
  • Cover Letter: Clearly articulate your interest in WFP, explain how your skills and experience make you a strong candidate for this specific role, and briefly mention your understanding of or alignment with WFP's mission.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio is up-to-date, well-organized, and includes examples relevant to report design, infographic creation, social media visuals, and potentially video editing. Have a link ready to share or be prepared to upload it if requested.
• Research WFP: Familiarize yourself with WFP's work in Pakistan and globally, its mission, values, and recent communication campaigns. Understand their visual branding.
• Practice Your Presentation: Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail during an interview, highlighting your creative process, technical skills, and the impact of your work.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions tailored to the creative support nature of this role within WFP. All details, especially regarding compensation and specific application processes, should be verified directly with the hiring organization through their official channels before making application decisions.