Finance Analyst

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global institution established to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries. Founded in 1944, it has grown to include 189 member countries and operates more than 120 offices worldwide. The organization is dedicated to ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity through sustainable development. It serves as a vital source of funding and knowledge, partnering with both public and private sectors to invest in innovative projects that address pressing global challenges. The World Bank Group's mission is to help countries improve their economic prospects and quality of life for their citizens, making it a key player in international development.

Job Overview:
The Finance Analyst position at the World Bank Group is a critical role within the Budget, Performance Review, and Strategic Planning Vice Presidency (BPS). This role involves supporting the Sustainable Development Global VPU and the Europe & Central Asia Region in planning, monitoring, and executing budgets and expenses. The Finance Analyst will be responsible for providing quality business planning, budgeting, and monitoring services to senior management, including Vice Presidents and Directors. This position requires a strong analytical background, as the Finance Analyst will prepare budgets, produce reports, and conduct budget analysis while maintaining policies and controls. The role also involves fostering positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and supporting the financial and accounting aspects of the organization. The Finance Analyst will work closely with Practice Managers based in both Vienna and Washington, DC, and will be expected to adapt to various assignments based on business needs and professional development objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Analyst will undertake a variety of duties, including but not limited to: preparing and analyzing budgets, producing financial reports, and maintaining financial policies and controls. They will contribute to budget planning processes and ensure compliance with internal controls. The Finance Analyst will manage financial transactions and reconciliations, assist with processing invoices, and provide analytical support to senior professionals. They will also be responsible for establishing and enforcing accounting policies, interpreting financial reports and tax returns, and maintaining strong corporate relations. The role requires the ability to work with large datasets and may involve data modeling. The Finance Analyst will play an advisory role in supporting a strong control environment and will be expected to collaborate effectively with team members and stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business management, or a related field. Alternatively, candidates with a non-finance bachelor's degree must have one of the following qualifications: CIMA Advanced Diploma in Management Accounting, ACCA Advanced Diploma in Accounting and Business, or an equivalent accounting certificate. Additionally, a minimum of two years of relevant experience in a finance or accounting role is required. Candidates should demonstrate advanced knowledge of budget and finance systems, particularly SAP, Power BI, BW/AO, and BPC. Strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and a track record of supporting business decision-making through relevant analytics are essential. Knowledge of external funds policies and procedures is desirable, as is experience with data management and process analysis.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business management, or a related discipline. Candidates with a non-finance degree must possess a recognized accounting qualification such as the CIMA Advanced Diploma in Management Accounting or the ACCA Advanced Diploma in Accounting and Business. This educational foundation is essential to meet the position-specific requirements and to effectively perform the duties associated with the Finance Analyst role.

Experience:
The Finance Analyst position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience in a comparable accounting or finance-oriented role. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with budget and finance systems, as well as experience in providing analytical support for business decision-making. Familiarity with financial management systems and the ability to analyze complex problems independently are crucial for success in this role. Experience in data management and process analysis will also be beneficial.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is proficiency in English. Candidates should possess excellent written and oral communication skills in English to effectively interact with stakeholders and produce high-quality reports. While not mandatory, proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of three years. The Finance Analyst role is expected to be full-time and based in Vienna, Austria. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life, and disability insurance, as well as paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The selected candidate may also have opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the organization.