Finance Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on reproductive health and rights, and population and development. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, with a mission to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization is dedicated to achieving three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet need for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the importance of addressing the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on women's and girls' access to sexual and reproductive health services, while also promoting human rights and ethical standards among its staff.

Job Overview:
The Finance Associate position at UNFPA Kenya Country Office is crucial for delivering quality financial services to both internal and external clients. The role requires a deep understanding of financial rules, guidelines, processes, and procedures, and a client-oriented approach to interpreting these rules. The Finance Associate will be responsible for ensuring timely processing of National Execution (NEX) advances to partners, managing staff entitlements, and maintaining accurate financial records. This position plays a vital role in supporting the financial operations of UNFPA-supported projects and ensuring compliance with financial policies. The Finance Associate will also engage in financial monitoring and training of implementing partners, contributing to the overall effectiveness of financial management within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Associate will undertake a variety of duties, including but not limited to: ensuring timely processing of NEX advances and liquidation of advances for implementing partners, processing staff entitlements such as security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security reimbursements and education grants, interpreting financial policies related to NEX and Direct Execution (DEX), performing monthly reconciliations, and participating in financial monitoring and training of partners. The role also involves maintaining an effective financial recording and reporting system, processing payments for travel, staff, and consultants, performing end-year accounts closure activities, and managing office finances by reviewing expenditure reports and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. Additionally, the Finance Associate will be responsible for managing funds to implementing partners, providing capacity building, and performing internal audit functions as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a completion of Secondary Level Education as a minimum requirement. A first-level university degree in finance, business administration, or related fields is desirable. The role requires a strong understanding of financial management principles and practices, as well as proficiency in using computers and office software packages, particularly advanced knowledge of spreadsheet and database applications. Experience working with international organizations, especially UN agencies, is considered an advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes at least a completion of Secondary Level Education. A first-level university degree in finance, business administration, or other related fields is highly desirable, as it provides a foundational understanding of financial principles and practices necessary for the role.

Experience:
The Finance Associate position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in finance, business administration, or office management. Candidates should have a proven track record of handling financial processes, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. Experience in using web-based management systems and ERP financials is also essential, as is familiarity with international organizations and their financial operations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNFPA and for reporting purposes. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits as applicable. UNFPA promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. The organization emphasizes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics.