Programme Assistant (Finance)

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the UNODC Programme Office in Serbia, which is part of the Regional Office for South-Eastern Europe (ROSEE) under the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The UNODC was established to assist Member States in their struggle against illicit drugs and international crime. The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on promoting justice, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and health. The office in Serbia plays a crucial role in implementing various programs aimed at addressing drug-related issues and crime in the region, contributing to the overall mission of the UNODC to foster international cooperation and support sustainable development.

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, particularly focusing on the Regional Programme for South-Eastern Europe (RPSEE). This position requires a proactive individual who can 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 regulations. The role involves monitoring the status of program/project proposals, reviewing project documents, and assisting in the preparation of budget 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.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Assistant (Finance) include: assisting in the coordination of program/project planning and implementation; providing administrative and financial guidance to project staff; reviewing and analyzing project documents; assisting in the finalization of cost estimates and budget proposals; drafting correspondence on budget-related issues; preparing and updating periodic reports; guiding the work of Administrative and Project Assistants; analyzing accounting issues; supporting the Representative in budget elaboration; monitoring project expenditures; preparing financial reports; conducting financial operations; coordinating human resources management activities; providing budget estimates; organizing conferences and workshops; coordinating procurement of equipment and services; serving as the UNODC focal point for administrative/financial coordination; monitoring administrative tasks; liaising with other UN agencies; assisting with data collection and analysis; and performing other work-related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum educational qualification. Candidates must possess a minimum of five years of progressively responsible work experience in public administration, finance, or program support services. This requirement is reduced to three years for candidates with a first-level university degree or higher. Proficiency in standard office software (such as MS Word and Excel) and web-based management systems is essential. Experience with SAP (Umoja) is desirable, as is experience within the United Nations system or a similar international organization.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position is a high school diploma or equivalent. While no specific job-related qualifications are mentioned, candidates with a first-level university degree or higher will have a reduced experience requirement, indicating that higher education is valued in this role.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of five years of progressively responsible work experience in relevant fields such as public administration, finance, or program support services. This experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of program implementation and financial management within the UN framework. For those with a first-level university degree or higher, the required experience is reduced to three years, highlighting the importance of educational qualifications in this role. Familiarity with standard office software and web-based management systems is also necessary, along with desirable experience in the UN system or similar organizations.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of Serbian is considered desirable. This language requirement ensures effective communication within the UNODC and with various stakeholders in the region, facilitating the smooth execution of programs and projects.

Additional Notes:
The job does not specify a deadline for applications, which may indicate an ongoing recruitment process. The position is likely to be full-time, given the responsibilities outlined. The role may involve international collaboration, as it requires liaising with various UN agencies and national counterparts. Compensation and benefits details are not provided in the job description, but candidates can expect a competitive salary and benefits package typical of UN positions.