Finance Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization is committed to achieving gender balance and fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce, with a strong emphasis on gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 aims to end preventable maternal deaths, meet the unmet need for family planning, and eliminate gender-based violence and harmful practices. The organization is dedicated to addressing the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on women's access to reproductive health services and rights, and it calls upon all stakeholders to build forward better in the face of these challenges.

Job Overview:
The Finance Assistant position is crucial for ensuring the effective functioning of the Finance Unit within UNFPA. The role involves maintaining accuracy and integrity in financial operations while adopting a client-oriented approach. The Finance Assistant will support the Operations team and Finance unit in various financial services, including filing and processing payments, managing advances, and ensuring that financial documents are organized and easily accessible. The incumbent will work closely with both operations and program units of UNFPA Afghanistan Country Office and will report directly to the Finance Associate. This position is designed to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and compliance with UNFPA financial rules and policies, ensuring that all financial transactions and documentation are managed effectively and efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: supporting the Finance Unit in planning and organizing workloads to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting; assisting in the preparation of program and operating budgets; ensuring swift processing of financial transactions such as payments to vendors and claims; conducting regular invoice reconciliations with vendors; facilitating vendor profile creation for UNFPA payees; liaising with UNDP to verify timely financial transactions; handling financial and banking matters for office operations; tracking and following up on advance Daily Subsistence Allowances (DSAs); checking the completeness of supporting documents for claims; reconciling accommodation logs and providing invoices for tenants; processing Rest and Recuperation and Danger Pay entitlements for international staff; preparing payment requests; monitoring telephone bills and recovery charges; managing the filing system and database for the Finance Unit; and performing any other tasks assigned by the Finance Associate.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Secondary Level Education in Economics or Business Administration, with a University Degree being desirable. They should have at least five years of relevant experience in finance or accounting, with knowledge of finance ERP systems such as Quantum being required. Proven experience in managing and implementing financial policies and processes in development organizations or the private sector is preferred. Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to produce analytical reports and write clearly and concisely. Experience working with UN organizations is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Secondary Level Education in Economics or Business Administration. A University Degree in a related field is desirable, as it provides a stronger foundation for understanding financial principles and practices relevant to the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of relevant experience in finance or accounting. Candidates should have a proven track record of successfully managing and implementing financial policies, processes, and systems, particularly in development organizations or the private sector. Familiarity with finance ERP systems, specifically Quantum, is essential for this role, as it will facilitate the management of financial transactions and reporting.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English, both written and oral, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in the local languages, Dari and/or Pashto, is required to effectively communicate with local stakeholders and staff members.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package that includes leave days, health insurance, and additional remuneration for pensions and social security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security obligations. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization is committed to ensuring gender parity and encourages women to apply. Individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups are highly encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA emphasizes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics.