Project Associate - Finance and Admin

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been operational in India since 1951, focusing on various aspects of human development. The organization collaborates with the Government of India and other development partners to tackle issues such as poverty eradication, inequality reduction, local governance enhancement, community resilience building, environmental protection, and policy reform. UNDP India aims to accelerate sustainable development through its projects and programs across all states and union territories, emphasizing results for vulnerable and marginalized communities. The organization is committed to supporting India's national development vision and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through a new Country Programme for 2023-2027, which focuses on accountable institutions, economic opportunities, social protection, and climate-smart solutions. UNDP promotes South-South cooperation, gender equality, and social inclusion across its strategic portfolios, supported by innovative partnerships and financial solutions.

Job Overview:
The Project Associate - Finance and Admin will play a crucial role in supporting the financial and administrative functions of the Sustainable Finance Facility (SFF) project within the UNDP India Country Office. This position is integral to ensuring that project activities align with the Project Document, approved work plans, and UNDP guidelines. The Project Associate will work closely with the Project Manager for Sustainable and Blended Finance and the Chief Advisor for SDGs, contributing to the overall mission of facilitating sustainable development through effective financial management and compliance. The role involves monitoring project budgets, preparing financial forecasts, maintaining financial records, and ensuring timely reporting of project expenses. Additionally, the Project Associate will provide administrative support for project activities, track project progress, and facilitate procurement processes, ensuring that all operations adhere to UNDP regulations and standards. This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to achieving results in a collaborative environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Financial Management and Compliance: Monitor project budgets and expenditures to ensure alignment with approved work plans and financial guidelines. Prepare financial forecasts and maintain accurate financial records. Ensure timely reporting of project expenses and assist in preparing financial reports and audit documentation. Coordinate with UNDP finance and procurement teams to ensure smooth transaction processing. Liaise with implementing partners and vendors regarding administrative and financial requirements.
• Administrative and Operational Support: Track project progress against the logical framework, identify bottlenecks, and contribute to corrective actions. Consolidate project results for periodic reports, ensuring alignment with targets. Provide logistical support for project activities, including organizing meetings and workshops. Facilitate procurement processes in accordance with UNDP rules. Maintain accurate records of project assets and ensure compliance with established procedures. Carry out additional duties as assigned to ensure smooth project implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess secondary education with specialized certification in accounting and/or finance. A university degree in finance or accounting is desirable, and part-qualified accountants from an internationally accredited institute will have an advantage. Fully qualified accountants or those who have completed the UNDP Finance Training and Certification Programme (FTCP) are preferred. Candidates without professional accountancy qualifications but with relevant degrees must complete the FTCP if recruited. Candidates with relevant experience must undertake the UNDP Accountancy and Finance Test (AFT) before shortlisting and complete the FTCP if recruited.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include secondary education with specialized certification in accounting and/or finance. A university degree in finance or accounting is highly desirable. Candidates who are fully qualified accountants from an internationally accredited institute or have completed the UNDP Finance Training and Certification Programme (FTCP) will be given preference. Degrees in business administration or public administration are not considered equivalent to the required qualifications.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in finance/accounts and administrative fields for candidates with secondary education, or 4 years for those with a bachelor's degree. Proven experience in financial reporting, documentation, budget management, and compliance with international financial regulations is essential. Experience in financial management, particularly in managing project budgets and monitoring expenditures, is also required. Familiarity with UNDP financial regulations and donor compliance frameworks is advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Hindi is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in New Delhi, India, and is expected to be full-time. UNDP is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions. The recruitment process does not involve any fees.