Finance Assistant (G5)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, established to save lives in emergencies and to use food assistance as a means to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. WFP operates globally, with a mission centered on the belief that food is a fundamental human right and that everyone deserves access to it. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all its employees, regardless of race, gender, or background. WFP has received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, highlighting its significant contributions to humanitarian efforts worldwide. The organization emphasizes the importance of a diverse workforce and invests in the personal and professional development of its employees through various training and mentorship programs. WFP operates in numerous countries, providing a dynamic and multicultural working environment for its staff.

Job Overview:
As a Finance Assistant at WFP, you will play a crucial role in supporting the efficient delivery of finance services and ensuring the transparent utilization of financial resources. This position is designed for individuals looking to kickstart their careers in finance within a reputable humanitarian organization. You will work under the supervision of the Finance Officer and contribute to various finance functions, including accounts payable and general accounting. The role is part of a strategic initiative to centralize WFP’s accounts payable functions, enhancing efficiency and service delivery across the organization. This position is not just about processing transactions; it is about being part of a team that is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those in need. You will gain valuable experience in a fast-paced, multicultural environment, and have the opportunity to develop your skills in finance and accounting while contributing to WFP's mission of saving lives and changing lives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: assisting in the accounts payable process by providing procedural and technical support to staff, verifying vendor claims and ensuring compliance with WFP financial policies, processing transactions in SAP, managing bank accounts, preparing financial statements, and supporting the management of donor receivables and payables. You will also be involved in the preparation of quarterly and annual financial reports, ensuring accuracy and compliance with IPSAS standards. Additionally, the role includes monitoring and analyzing financial data, responding to customer inquiries, and providing guidance on financial topics to users worldwide. The Finance Assistant will also support in the oversight of fixed and intangible asset accounting, leases accounting, and compliance tasks, ensuring that all financial operations align with WFP's policies and regulations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong focus on accuracy and consistency, particularly when processing large volumes of transactions. Essential qualifications include experience in finance and accounting, familiarity with financial reporting, and proficiency in using Excel and SAP ERP modules. Knowledge of financial and accounting policies, IPSAS/IFRS/US GAAP, or other accounting standards is crucial. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, communication, and client orientation skills are necessary, along with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment. Desirable qualifications include experience in liaising with stakeholders on financial matters and preparation of financial statements.

Educational Background:
The position requires a completed degree from an accredited institution in fields such as finance, accounting, business studies, economics, or related disciplines. For candidates holding a High School Diploma, a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in finance or a service center is required. For those with a university degree, the educational background will be considered equivalent to 4 years of work experience, emphasizing the importance of formal education in the finance sector.

Experience:
A minimum of 1 year of relevant work experience in finance and accounting is required for this position. Candidates with a High School Diploma must have at least 5 years of relevant experience, while those with a university degree should have experience that aligns with the responsibilities of the Finance Assistant role. Experience in processing financial transactions, preparing financial reports, and analyzing financial data is essential for success in this position.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) is mandatory for this role. Additionally, candidates should have fluency (level C) or intermediate knowledge (level B) of another UN language such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish, or Portuguese, which is considered desirable for the position. Proficiency in multiple languages will enhance communication and collaboration within the diverse WFP environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment for General Service staff, and applicants must reside within commuting distance of the WFP Budapest office or be willing to relocate at their own cost. Candidates must be nationals of Hungary or other EU/Schengen countries or possess a valid long-term Hungarian residency and work permit. The contract is initially for two years with a one-year probationary period, and the role offers a hybrid working arrangement, allowing employees to work from home up to two days per week after the initial training period. The compensation package includes a competitive salary, annual leave, parental leave, child allowance, and enrollment in the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund (UNJSPF). WFP is committed to providing an inclusive work environment and offers reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.