National Finance and Operations Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) Readiness Project is an initiative aimed at enhancing the institutional capacity of the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) to design, implement, and finance low emissions and climate-resilient projects. The project is implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in collaboration with the National Designated Authority (NDA), specifically the Department of Planning and Finance (DPC) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE). The GCF project has several objectives, including capacity building, strategic frameworks, pipeline development, and knowledge sharing, all aimed at supporting climate action in Lao PDR. The Project Management Unit (PMU) is responsible for the daily execution of the project, ensuring alignment with FAO's regulations and GCF requirements.

Job Overview:
The National Finance and Operations Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the GCF Readiness Project’s Project Management Unit (PMU) by providing essential financial management, procurement, recruitment, and administrative operations support. This position is vital for ensuring compliance with FAO's regulations and GCF requirements, facilitating smooth operations between the PMU, FAO, and national stakeholders. The assistant will be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, supporting procurement processes, and assisting in recruitment efforts, all while ensuring that the project meets its objectives effectively and efficiently. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, contributing to the overall success of the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Financial Management & Reporting: Maintain budget tracking systems and expenditure records, monitor budget execution, prepare monthly budget vs. expenditure reports, produce financial reports for FAO and GCF, and maintain a compliant financial filing system.
• Procurement Support: Assist in preparing and updating the project procurement plan, prepare procurement requisitions, support competitive procurement processes, and assist in monitoring Letters of Agreement (LoAs).
• Recruitment & HR Administration: Organize the selection process, coordinate interviews, manage job postings, and ensure proper dissemination of vacancy announcements.
• Administrative & Operational Support: Provide general administrative support to the Project Manager, organize meetings and workshops, facilitate communication among stakeholders, and support day-to-day operational requirements of the PMU.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Finance, Business Administration, Accounting, Economics, or a related field. They should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in financial management, accounting, or project administration. A working knowledge of English is essential, and candidates must be nationals of Lao PDR. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a high level of integrity, strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure.

Educational Background:
A university degree in Finance, Business Administration, Accounting, Economics, or a related field is required for this position. The FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in financial management, accounting, or project administration. Experience with international development programs/projects is preferred, along with demonstrated experience in budget preparation, financial reporting, and expenditure tracking.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Appointment will be subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearances. For additional employment opportunities, candidates can visit the FAO employment website.