Programme Assistant (Finance)

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), specifically at the Programme Office in Serbia (POSRB), which is part of the Regional Office for South-Eastern Europe (ROSEE). UNODC was established to assist Member States in their struggle against illicit drugs and international crime. The organization operates in multiple countries across the globe, focusing on promoting justice, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and health. The UNODC aims to support countries in developing effective responses to drug-related issues and crime, ensuring that the rule of law is upheld and that human rights are respected. The office in Serbia plays a crucial role in implementing regional programs and projects that address these challenges in South-Eastern Europe, working closely with various stakeholders to achieve its mission.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant (Finance) will play a vital role in supporting the implementation of various UNODC programs and projects in South-Eastern Europe, with a particular focus on the Regional Programme for South-Eastern Europe (RPSEE). This position requires a proactive approach to assist in the coordination of program/project planning and implementation activities. The incumbent will provide essential administrative and financial guidance to project staff, ensuring that all activities are executed in compliance with UNODC's rules and regulations. The role involves reviewing project documents, assisting with budget proposals, and monitoring the status of program/project proposals. The Programme Assistant will also be responsible for drafting correspondence, preparing reports, and ensuring that financial resources are utilized effectively to implement activities in accordance with the Programme Budget. This position demands a high level of professionalism, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to achieve organizational goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Assistant (Finance) include:

• Assisting in the coordination of program/project planning and implementation activities, providing administrative and financial guidance to UNODC project staff in the region.
• Reviewing and analyzing project documents, particularly focusing on cost estimates and budget proposals to ensure compliance with relevant rules before submission for approval.
• Supporting the Representative and Head of Programme Offices in the day-to-day implementation of UNODC programs/projects.
• Drafting correspondence on budget-related issues and preparing periodic reports, briefing notes, and financial summaries.
• Guiding the work of Administrative and Project Assistants in the region regarding program/project administration and finance.
• Analyzing accounting issues related to business development and execution, and supporting the development of program/project budgets.
• Monitoring project expenditures against approved work plans and ensuring compliance with UN financial rules.
• Assisting in the preparation and submission of financial reports as per donor requirements.
• Coordinating human resources management activities, including recruitment and performance management. 1
• Supporting the organization of conferences, meetings, and training sessions, and managing procurement of equipment and services. 1
• Serving as the UNODC focal point for administrative/financial coordination and ensuring timely completion of administrative tasks. 1
• Assisting with data collection and analysis for reporting and decision-making purposes. 1
• Performing other work-related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Programme Assistant (Finance) position include:

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
• A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible work experience in public administration, finance, or program support service is required.
• For candidates with a first-level university degree or higher, the minimum years of relevant experience are reduced to three (3).
• Proficiency in standard office software (MS Word, Excel, etc.) and web-based management systems is required.
• Experience with SAP (Umoja) is desirable.
• Experience within the United Nations system or a similar international organization is also desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position is a high school diploma or equivalent. While a higher level of education may not be mandatory, possessing a first-level university degree or higher can reduce the required years of relevant experience, making candidates with such qualifications more competitive for the role.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible work experience in public administration, finance, or program support service. However, this requirement is reduced to three (3) years for those who hold a first-level university degree or higher. This experience should ideally include familiarity with standard office software and web-based management systems, as well as experience in the United Nations system or similar international organizations, which would provide valuable context for the role.

Languages:
For this position, English is the required working language, as it is one of the official languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in Serbian is desirable, which would enhance communication and collaboration within the local context. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is another working language of the UN, but it is not mandatory for this specific job opening.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and is based in Belgrade, Serbia. The role involves significant interaction with various stakeholders, including national counterparts and other UN agencies. The Programme Assistant (Finance) will be expected to work collaboratively within a team and contribute to the overall goals of the UNODC in the region. The position may involve some travel within the region as required for program implementation and coordination activities.