Application Guide

How to Apply for Events Assistant

at Aga Khan Development Network

🏢 About Aga Khan Development Network

The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) is a unique, non-denominational network of private development agencies focused on improving the quality of life in some of the most challenging regions. Working here means contributing to impactful global initiatives in areas like education, health, and culture, with a strong ethical foundation.

About This Role

As an Events Assistant, you will play a key role in executing events that support AKDN's mission, from logistics coordination to on-site management. Your work ensures that events run smoothly, enabling stakeholders to focus on development outcomes.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your day might start with a virtual check-in with the events team to review timelines, then move to vendor calls to confirm logistics for an upcoming webinar. Afternoon could be spent updating event budgets in Excel and creating a run-of-show document, followed by a site visit (if local) or virtual walkthrough for an in-person event.

🎯 Who Aga Khan Development Network Is Looking For

  • A highly organized individual who can juggle multiple event logistics simultaneously, from vendor coordination to timeline management.
  • An excellent communicator with strong interpersonal skills, comfortable liaising with diverse stakeholders including partners, vendors, and internal teams.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel for budget tracking and PowerPoint for presentations, with a willingness to learn new tools.
  • Prior experience in event coordination or administrative support is preferred, but candidates with strong transferable skills and a passion for development work are encouraged.

📝 Tips for Applying to Aga Khan Development Network

1

Tailor your resume to highlight event coordination experience, even from volunteer roles, and quantify achievements (e.g., 'Coordinated 5+ events with 200+ attendees').

2

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your organizational skills to AKDN's mission, mentioning specific areas of interest like education or health.

3

Research AKDN's recent events or initiatives and reference one in your application to show genuine interest.

4

Demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office by listing specific skills (e.g., advanced Excel formulas, PowerPoint design).

5

Proofread meticulously; AKDN values professionalism and attention to detail.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your ability to manage logistics and vendors effectively, ensuring seamless event execution.', 'Your strong communication skills, both written and verbal, and experience working with diverse teams.', "Your alignment with AKDN's values of improving quality of life and your interest in development work.", "Specific examples of events you've coordinated, emphasizing problem-solving and adaptability."]

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Read about AKDN's recent events or initiatives on their website, focusing on areas like education or culture.
  • Understand the Aga Khan's role and the network's non-denominational, ethical approach to development.
  • Familiarize yourself with the remote work culture and how AKDN supports virtual event coordination.
  • Look up any news about AKDN's events in the past year to discuss in your interview.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you managed a complex event logistics challenge and how you resolved it.
2 How do you prioritize tasks when coordinating multiple events simultaneously?
3 What do you know about the Aga Khan Development Network's work and how does it inspire you?
4 Give an example of how you communicated effectively with a difficult vendor or stakeholder.
5 How do you use Microsoft Office tools to improve event planning efficiency?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application without mentioning AKDN or its mission.
  • Overlooking the remote aspect; failing to demonstrate self-motivation and virtual collaboration skills.
  • Providing vague examples of event experience without concrete details or outcomes.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Aga Khan Development Network!