Finance Officer, NO-A

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to ensure effective humanitarian assistance reaches millions of people globally. WFP is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization has received numerous accolades, including the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize, recognizing its efforts in combating hunger and promoting security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security worldwide. WFP's mission is driven by its core values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion, which guide its operations and interactions with partners and beneficiaries. For more information about WFP, visit their website at https://www.wfp.org and follow them on various social media platforms for updates and news.

Job Overview:
The Finance Officer position at WFP is crucial for supporting the stewardship of the organization's resources. This role involves monitoring budgets, forecasting financial data, and reporting on key metrics to ensure effective management of funds. The Finance Officer will work closely with the Deputy Country Director and receive guidance from the Finance Unit at the Regional Office. The position requires a proactive approach to financial management, ensuring that assistance to beneficiaries is delivered efficiently and effectively. The Finance Officer will also contribute to the development of country-specific financial plans and processes, aligning them with WFP's broader strategies and policies. This role is essential for maintaining financial integrity and compliance within the organization, as well as for supporting the overall mission of WFP to provide humanitarian assistance to those in need.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: maintaining awareness of corporate finance and resource management strategies, contributing to the development of country-specific financial plans, formulating Standard Operating Procedures, reporting on financial status and project outcomes, overseeing monthly financial closures, monitoring and analyzing financial data, performing bank reconciliations, managing cash flow, and overseeing human resource requirements within the finance unit. The officer will also provide financial assessments of partners and service providers, collate data for accurate reporting, track financial trends, and support the delivery of financial controls. Additionally, the Finance Officer will guide and supervise junior staff, establish work priorities, and represent the finance unit at internal and external meetings. The role may also involve emergency preparedness practices to ensure WFP can respond quickly to crises.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Finance Officer position must possess an advanced university degree in Finance, Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field. Alternatively, a first university degree in the same subjects combined with two additional years of relevant work experience is acceptable. The role requires fluency in English and Tetum, with knowledge of Portuguese considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment. Familiarity with financial management systems, particularly SAP applications, is advantageous, as is experience in international organizations.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Finance Officer position includes an advanced university degree in Finance, Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field. Candidates with a first university degree in these subjects will also be considered if they have two additional years of relevant work experience. This educational foundation is essential for understanding complex financial concepts and practices necessary for effective resource management within WFP.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least one year of postgraduate professional experience in relevant areas of finance and resource management. This experience should include performing basic financial analyses at a national or operational level and managing financial transactions. Previous experience working in an international organization and familiarity with SAP applications will be viewed favorably, as these skills are critical for the successful execution of the Finance Officer's responsibilities.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Tetum is mandatory for this position, as these languages are essential for communication within the organization and with local stakeholders. Knowledge of Portuguese is considered a plus, as it may facilitate interactions with partners and enhance the candidate's ability to perform in a diverse linguistic environment.

Additional Notes:
The Finance Officer position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of 12 months, with the possibility of extension based on organizational needs and performance. This role is based in Dili, Timor-Leste, and is classified at the NO-A level, indicating a junior professional position within the WFP structure. The organization offers a competitive compensation package, which includes various benefits aimed at supporting employee well-being and professional development. WFP is committed to creating an inclusive work environment and encourages applications from individuals with disabilities, providing reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process.