Admin/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 territories, working 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 three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet needs for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA's strategic plans guide its efforts to address the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and to build resilient societies in the face of demographic changes.

Job Overview:
The Admin/Finance Assistant position at UNFPA Somalia Country Office in Mogadishu is crucial for ensuring the effective functioning of financial operations and systems. This role involves working closely with program and project staff to provide financial monitoring and analysis, advising managers on expenditure trends and implementation rates. The Admin/Finance Assistant is expected to deliver quality services in financial management to both internal and external clients, mastering all relevant rules, guidelines, processes, and procedures. The position requires a client-oriented, results-focused approach to interpreting rules and providing support to colleagues and project offices. The Admin/Finance Assistant will play a key role in the financial performance monitoring of programs and projects, ensuring compliance with UNFPA's operational standards and contributing to the overall mission of the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Admin/Finance Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including assisting the Senior Admin/Finance Associate and International Operations Manager in controlling operational expenditures, evaluating expenditures against budgets, and ensuring proper cost sharing and allocation. The role includes managing Accounts Payables, ensuring timely payments to suppliers, and maintaining communication with finance areas. The Assistant will support the monitoring of financial performance for core and non-core resources, detect potential expenditure issues, and suggest remedial actions. Responsibilities also include facilitating payment requests, maintaining financial records, preparing financial reports, and developing tools for effective budget monitoring. The Assistant will integrate financial policies into operational procedures, provide guidance and training to staff, and assist in the control of Accounts Receivables. Additionally, the role involves logistical support for program staff, reviewing charges for common services, assisting in budget formulation, and maintaining contacts with government counterparts and implementing partners. The Assistant will also facilitate NEX audits, organize training activities, and support VAT claim preparations and reconciliations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary level education (high school or equivalent) as a minimum requirement. A first-level or advanced degree in Public Administration, Accounting, Business, Economics, or a related field is considered an asset. Certifications in Accounting, such as CPA or ACCA, will also be viewed favorably. Familiarity with UN Operational Rules and Regulations is advantageous, as is experience with ERP systems like Quantum. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and accounting software is essential, particularly an intermediate to advanced level of expertise in Excel, which will be assessed through testing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a completed secondary education, with a preference for candidates holding a first-level or advanced degree in relevant fields such as Public Administration, Accounting, Business, or Economics. Additional certifications in accounting are considered beneficial and may enhance a candidate's application.

Experience:
Candidates should possess a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience, with at least 3 years in a similar functional area. Experience in applying and handling UN Operational Rules and Regulations is an advantage, as is familiarity with ERP systems. The role requires a strong background in financial management and the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.

Languages:
A solid command of spoken and written English and Somali is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the UNFPA team and with external partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Mogadishu, Somalia, and offers an attractive remuneration package that includes a competitive net salary, annual leave, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. The role is full-time, and UNFPA is committed to promoting gender equality and diversity within its workforce. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. UNFPA has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with its aims and objectives, including discrimination and harassment. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks, including verification of academic qualifications and employment history.