Finance and Budget Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Partnerships (UN Partnerships) serves as a vital connector within the UN system, facilitating partnerships aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Established to align with the priorities of the UN Secretary-General, UN Partnerships engages various stakeholders to co-create solutions that address global challenges. The organization oversees several key initiatives, including the UN Fund for International Partnerships (UNFIP), the UN Democracy Fund (UNDEF), and the SDG Advocates programme, and plays a crucial role in mobilizing resources and support for these initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Budget Assistant position is integral to the operations of the UN Partnerships, providing essential support in budget preparation, financial monitoring, and administrative tasks. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the Chief of Operations, contributing to the effective management of financial resources and ensuring compliance with UN regulations. This role involves preparing budget proposals, monitoring expenditures, and assisting in the management of trust funds and grants. The Finance and Budget Assistant will also be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records and providing reports to stakeholders, thereby ensuring transparency and accountability in financial operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance and Budget Assistant will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: preparing supporting documents for budget proposals, monitoring expenditures against approved budgets, assisting in the preparation of budget performance reports, and reviewing special service agreements and travel requests. The incumbent will also maintain project documentation, draft correspondence related to financial matters, and serve as the IT focal point for the work unit. Additionally, the role requires keeping up-to-date with relevant guidelines and ensuring compliance with UN policies, as well as providing assistance in the establishment and closure of trust funds and projects.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. A first-level university degree or higher can reduce the required work experience from seven years to five years. The ideal candidate should have a strong understanding of finance and budget functions, as well as experience in administrative services. Knowledge of UN financial rules and procedures is essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively and efficiently under pressure. The candidate should demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and a commitment to gender equality in the workplace.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma is required for this position. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher will be given preference, as this can reduce the required years of relevant experience. Educational qualifications should ideally be in finance, accounting, or a related field to ensure a solid foundation for the responsibilities of the role.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of experience in finance, budget, accounting, or administrative services is required. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher may qualify with five years of relevant experience. Experience in managing extra-budgetary resources, trust fund management, and familiarity with ERP systems such as SAP or Umoja is essential. Additionally, experience in reviewing budget proposals and maintaining financial data quality for complex project databases is desirable.

Languages:
English is the mandatory working language for this position, with a required proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. While French is also a working language of the United Nations, it is not specified as a requirement for this position. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication skills in English to effectively perform their duties.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for three months, with the possibility of extension. It is subject to local recruitment, meaning applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The position does not offer allowances or benefits applicable to international recruitment. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The recruitment process adheres to strict standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, ensuring that all candidates are evaluated fairly.