Project Administrative and Finance Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established in 1965, working in about 170 countries and territories. Its mission is to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. UNDP operates in various sectors including climate change, democratic governance, peacebuilding, and disaster resilience. The organization employs approximately 17,000 personnel worldwide, focusing on building national capacities and fostering partnerships to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Project Administrative and Finance Officer will play a crucial role in the management and implementation of the EW4All project in Fiji, which aims to enhance early warning systems for vulnerable communities against extreme hydrometeorological hazards. The incumbent will work closely with the Project Manager and the UNDP Resilience and Climate Change Team Leader, ensuring effective collaboration with government and non-government partners. This position requires a proactive approach to project administration, financial management, and stakeholder engagement, contributing to the overall success of the project and its objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Administrative and Finance Officer will be responsible for a variety of tasks including:

• Project Implementation Assistance: Supporting the administration and implementation of project activities, ensuring compliance with UNDP rules and regulations, managing logistics, travel, procurement, and financial tasks.
• Information Management Assistance: Gathering and researching information, monitoring news, and preparing brief synopses of relevant items.
• Administrative Operations Support: Providing training for financial and administrative staff, processing travel requests, and monitoring travel-related payments.
• Financial Assistance: Drafting project progress reports, monitoring expenditures, preparing budget revisions, and ensuring timely financial reporting.
• Partner Coordination: Working with project partners for timely liquidations and providing administrative support as needed.
• Knowledge Sharing: Facilitating knowledge building and sharing best practices in finance and administration.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a professional accounting qualification from an internationally accredited institute or an Advanced (Master's) University Degree in Finance and/or Accounting. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with two years of qualifying experience will be considered. Candidates with professional accounting qualifications will have a distinct advantage. Those without such qualifications but with degrees in accountancy or finance must complete the Finance Training and Certification Programme (FTCP) if recruited. Additionally, candidates with an MBA or master's in finance without accountancy qualifications must successfully undertake the UNDP Advanced Accountancy and Finance Test (AAFT) to be eligible for shortlisting.

Educational Background:
A professional accounting qualification from an internationally accredited institute of accountancy is required, or an Advanced (Master's) University Degree in Finance and/or Accounting. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) with additional qualifying experience will also be considered. Candidates with no professional accountancy qualifications must complete the FTCP if recruited, while those with an MBA or master's in finance must undertake the AAFT to qualify for shortlisting.

Experience:
A minimum of 2 years of relevant experience at the national or international level in project support or finance is required for candidates with a master's degree, or 4 years for those with a bachelor's degree. Experience in using office software packages and advanced knowledge of spreadsheets and web-based management systems is essential. Desired skills include experience working with government counterparts, conducting audits, and familiarity with UN or international organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Working knowledge of local languages such as Fiji Hindi or iTaukei is considered desirable, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The position may require travel to the Federated States of Micronesia, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and throughout Fiji for short-term missions. UNDP is committed to equal opportunity and diversity, encouraging applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and ensures a fair recruitment process. Selected candidates may undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to UNDP's standards and principles.