Finance Associate

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 by the United Nations General Assembly as part of the UN reform agenda. The organization is dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women, merging the efforts of four previously distinct parts of the UN system that focused on these issues. UN Women operates globally, with a mission to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, empower women, and achieve equality between women and men as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action, and peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. The organization is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, ensuring that all employment decisions are based on qualifications, competence, integrity, and organizational need.

Job Overview:
The Finance Associate position at UN Women involves executing a wide range of financial services and administrative processes within the Country Office. The role is crucial for ensuring the timely, efficient, and transparent use of financial resources in accordance with organizational financial rules and regulations. The Finance Associate will work under the guidance of the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director of Financial Management and the Operations Manager, promoting a client-oriented approach and collaborating closely with both the Programme and Operations teams. The position requires a proactive approach to solving complex finance-related issues and delivering accurate financial information. The Finance Associate will also be responsible for implementing financial strategies, monitoring financial transactions, preparing reports, and ensuring compliance with UN Women’s financial regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Associate will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: implementing financial strategies in compliance with UN Women rules and regulations; reviewing and verifying financial transactions and documentation; monitoring financial exceptions and investigating anomalies; drafting financial status reports; assisting in the planning of financial resources; providing advice on financial issues; preparing and administering CO budgets; tracking expenditures; managing petty cash; and providing finance support to the Programme and Operations team. The role also includes compiling information for resource mobilization, conducting training events, and contributing to knowledge sharing within the organization. The Finance Associate will actively participate in audits and follow up on audit recommendations to ensure corrective actions are implemented.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of financial rules and regulations, accounting principles, and IT tools. They should have the ability to administer and execute financial processes and transactions effectively. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. A client-oriented approach and the ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders are also essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for the Finance Associate position is the completion of secondary education. Specialized national or international certification in accounting and finance is considered an asset, while a Bachelor's degree in Finance or Accounting is also advantageous. Successful completion of the UN Women Accounting and Finance Test is required as part of the selection process.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 6 years of progressively responsible experience in finance, with a strong background in using computers and office software packages, including MS Word and Excel. Experience with web-based management systems is required, and familiarity with modern web-based ERP systems, particularly Oracle Cloud, is desirable. The role demands a solid understanding of financial management practices and the ability to handle complex financial data.

Languages:
Fluency in French is required for this position, as it is the primary working language in the region. Knowledge of another official UN language is desirable, which would enhance communication and collaboration within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and is based in Dakar, Senegal. UN Women is committed to diversity and inclusion, and encourages applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, or ability. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with its aims and objectives, including harassment and discrimination. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history. Applicants must ensure that all sections of the application form are completed to avoid disqualification from the recruitment process.