Finance and Budget Officer (UN System-Wide IPSAS Project Coordinator)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations System, established in February 2006, aims to support the adoption of International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) across its 37 organizations. The project facilitates dialogue on accounting and financial reporting issues, ensuring consistent application of IPSAS requirements. The organization operates globally, focusing on enhancing financial transparency and accountability within the UN System.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Budget Officer (UN System-Wide IPSAS Project Coordinator) plays a crucial role in coordinating the implementation of IPSAS across the United Nations System. This position involves liaising with various UN organizations to support the Task Force on Accounting Standards, facilitating information sharing, and addressing common implementation issues. The incumbent will monitor accounting diversity, provide technical guidance, and draft reports for governing bodies. The role requires staying updated on IPSAS developments and managing project activities, financial resources, and deliverables effectively. The position is integral to ensuring that the UN System adheres to international accounting standards, thereby enhancing its financial integrity and accountability.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate and liaise with UN System organizations to support the Task Force on Accounting Standards.
• Facilitate information-sharing on IPSAS implementation and post-implementation issues.
• Assist the Chair of the Task Force in monitoring accounting diversity and conducting in-depth analyses.
• Solicit technical advice on IPSAS-related issues for individual UN organizations.
• Facilitate discussions on common implementation challenges and share practical approaches through working groups.
• Stay informed about developments from the IPSAS Board and coordinate reviews of standards.
• Draft progress reports for governing bodies and prepare responses to inquiries.
• Support networks of the High-Level Committee on Management and participate in relevant meetings.
• Interact with the audit function and maintain collaborative web-based platforms for knowledge sharing. 1
• Manage the overall activities and financial resources of the IPSAS project, assisting in establishing the project’s work plan.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in accounting or a related field is required.
• Certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Accountant (CA), or equivalent is mandatory.
• Proven expertise in international accounting standards, particularly IPSAS, is essential.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to provide technical advice to stakeholders are required.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, are necessary for effective information sharing and collaboration.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in accounting or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant work experience in accounting may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Certification as a CPA, CA, or equivalent is also required, underscoring the importance of formal qualifications in this role.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in developing accounting policies, particularly in the context of public sector accounting standards, is required. Experience with a UN system organization or similar international organization during a transition to a new accounting standard, such as IPSAS, is desirable. Candidates should have a background in standards setting processes and financial auditing related to the application of accounting standards.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and proficiency in French is considered an asset, although not mandatory for this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is financed by extra budgetary resources and is subject to the availability of funds and budgetary approval. The appointment is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The United Nations is committed to diversity and encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups. The recruitment process adheres to strict standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, ensuring a fair and inclusive hiring process.