Head (Budget and Finance)

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is NATO, which stands for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Established in 1949, NATO is a military alliance comprising 30 member countries from North America and Europe. Its mission is to ensure the freedom and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of its members through political and military means. NATO operates in various countries and has a significant presence in international security operations, crisis management, and cooperative security initiatives. The organization employs thousands of personnel across various roles and functions, working collaboratively to address global security challenges and promote stability in the region.

Job Overview:
The Head (Budget and Finance) position is a critical role within the Joint Advanced Training and Education Centre (JATEC) of NATO. This position is responsible for overseeing all budgetary and financial management operations within the JATEC, ensuring compliance with NATO Financial Regulations (NFRs) and International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS). The incumbent will provide expert financial advice and guidance to the Director and Command Group, manage the Office of Budget and Finance, and ensure effective allocation of resources. The role requires a strategic approach to financial management, risk assessment, and the ability to navigate complex financial landscapes in a multinational environment. The Head will also be involved in preparing budgets, monitoring financial performance, and liaising with various stakeholders, including military and civilian personnel, to support the JATEC's mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head (Budget and Finance) include: providing financial support within the limits of financial authority; serving as a financial management advisor to the Director JATEC; managing personnel and activities of the Office of Budget and Finance; overseeing all financial management operations, including budgeting, purchasing, accounting, cash management, and auditing; validating and authorizing financial transactions; maintaining proper fiscal and procurement accounting records; monitoring and controlling fund execution; conducting period-end closure and reconciliation of accounts; preparing budget estimates and execution reports; ensuring compliance with NFRs and supporting audit activities; managing financial risks; and representing the JATEC in financial matters at various committees and working groups.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a University Degree in finance, accounting, business administration, economics, public administration, or a related discipline, along with at least 2 years of relevant experience. Alternatively, candidates with Higher Secondary education and advanced vocational training leading to professional qualification or accreditation must have 4 years of post-related experience. Additionally, candidates should have four years of experience in financial management functions, including planning, programming, budgeting, and resource allocation, as well as experience with international accounting and auditing standards. Proficiency in using computerized financial ERP systems and MS Office is also required, along with strong communication skills and the ability to present financial information to an international audience.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a University Degree in finance, accounting, business administration, economics, public administration, or a related field. Candidates with Higher Secondary education and advanced vocational training leading to a professional qualification or accreditation are also eligible, provided they have the requisite experience. Formal training in International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) is desirable, as is a Master's degree in Business Administration or a similar field.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of experience in financial management, including supervision and direction of staff engaged in financial administration functions. Candidates should have experience in planning, programming, budgeting, and executing resource allocations, as well as familiarity with international accounting and auditing standards. Experience in public accounting, banking, or funds management is also essential, along with proficiency in using computerized financial ERP systems such as SAP or Oracle EBS.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is English, with a proficiency level of SLP 3333, which includes listening, speaking, reading, and writing. While English is the primary language, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in a multinational environment where communication with diverse stakeholders is essential.

Additional Notes:
This position is linked to a specific NATO project and is for a limited duration of three years. The successful applicant will be required to apply for and receive a NATO SECRET Security Clearance prior to final confirmation of contract and commencement of employment. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared to travel extensively in support of their duties. NATO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all member nations and particularly welcoming women to apply. Candidates should ensure that their applications are complete and adhere to the specified guidelines, as incomplete applications may be rejected.