Finance and Administrative Support

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and aims to support decision-makers in government while engaging with industry and the finance sector. The organization focuses on developing and adopting policies, strategies, and practices that promote sustainable patterns of consumption and production, including circular economy initiatives. UNEP was established to address pressing environmental challenges and operates in numerous countries worldwide, employing a diverse workforce dedicated to environmental sustainability.

Job Overview:
This position is located at the Paris duty station within UNEP's Industry and Economy Division, specifically under the Materials and Systems Innovation Unit. The role of the Individual Contractor is to provide essential finance, budget, travel, and administrative support to the Industry Innovation Branch. This support is crucial for the effective management of program and project resources, ensuring that financial and administrative processes are implemented in a timely manner. The Individual Contractor will be involved in various aspects of financial oversight, budget management, travel coordination, and administrative support, contributing to the overall mission of UNEP to promote sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Individual Contractor will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: 1) Financial and Budget Management: Supporting financial oversight and monitoring of program resources, preparing and analyzing financial reports, monitoring budget utilization, and ensuring compliance with UN financial regulations. 2) analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Financial Analysis and Reporting: Providing analytical support through the preparation of financial summaries and reports, reviewing financial data for discrepancies, and assisting in management decision-making. 3) Travel Management: Coordinating travel arrangements for consultants and participants, processing travel requests, and maintaining travel monitoring tools. 4) Agreement and Implementing Partner Support: Assisting in the preparation and monitoring of Project Cooperation Agreements and contracts, reviewing financial documentation from implementing partners, and maintaining records of agreements and financial obligations. 5) Administrative and Operational Support: Providing administrative support to the Administrative Officer and program teams, organizing meetings and workshops, maintaining accurate financial records, and contributing to process improvements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in finance, accounting, business administration, public administration, economics, or a related field. Additional professional training or qualifications in finance, accounting, budget management, project management, or administration would be advantageous. A minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in finance, accounting, budget management, or program/project administration is required. This experience should encompass financial and budget management, review and analysis of financial documentation, travel administration, and the administration of agreements and contracts. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and the Microsoft Office suite is essential, and familiarity with financial management systems, particularly Umoja, is a plus. Experience within the United Nations system or another international organization is also desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a first-level university degree in finance, accounting, business administration, public administration, economics, or a related field. Candidates with additional professional training or qualifications in relevant areas such as finance, accounting, budget management, or project management will be viewed favorably, as these qualifications enhance the candidate's ability to perform the duties associated with the role effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in finance, accounting, budget management, program/project administration, or a related area. Candidates should have experience in financial and budget management, monitoring and analyzing financial documentation, and preparing financial reports. Additionally, experience in travel administration and management, as well as the administration of agreements and contracts, is essential. Familiarity with financial monitoring tools and experience working with implementing partners will also be beneficial for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations. Knowledge of French is considered desirable, as it would facilitate communication within the organization and with French-speaking stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for a duration of six months. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization also does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.