Finance and Administration Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a prominent organization within the UN Development System, established to serve as a knowledge frontier for sustainable development. It operates in 170 countries, focusing on collective action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP is dedicated to combating poverty, inequality, and climate change, and has developed a multi-country programme document (MCPD) for the Pacific region, which includes ten countries. The organization aims to support nations in building integrated solutions for sustainable development, aligning its strategies with the 2030 Agenda and other regional frameworks.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Administration Specialist will play a crucial role in managing financial resources and ensuring compliance with UNDP regulations. This position requires a proactive approach to financial management, including the preparation of procurement plans, monitoring project budgets, and providing administrative support for project activities. The specialist will work closely with the Project Manager and the Project Management Unit (PMU) to ensure effective delivery of financial services and transparent utilization of resources. The role also involves engaging with stakeholders, facilitating knowledge sharing, and contributing to the overall success of the project aimed at addressing climate change impacts in Tonga.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance and Administration Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Ensuring compliance with UNDP procurement rules and regulations, guiding contract management, and preparing procurement documents.
• Managing project finance and budgets, updating work plans in the UNDP Corporate ERP system, and ensuring timely payment requests.
• Providing administrative support for project-related events, workshops, and meetings, including preparing agendas and minutes.
• Facilitating knowledge sharing and maintaining project documentation, ensuring proper archiving of materials.
• Building strategic partnerships with local institutions and stakeholders, and maintaining a contact database.
• Supporting the Project Manager in day-to-day financial management and oversight, contributing to progress reports and reviews with government counterparts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a professional accounting qualification from an internationally accredited institute or an advanced university degree in Finance or Accounting. A first-level university degree combined with additional qualifying experience may also be considered. Candidates with no professional qualifications must complete the Finance Training and Certification Programme if recruited. CIPS level 4 certification is highly desirable, and candidates holding this certification at the time of application will have a distinct advantage.

Educational Background:
A professional accounting qualification from an internationally accredited institute of accountancy is required, along with an advanced (Masters) university degree in Finance or Accounting. A bachelor's degree in these areas, combined with relevant experience, will also be considered. Candidates with an MBA or master's in finance without accountancy qualifications must undertake the UNDP Advanced Accountancy and Finance Test to be eligible for shortlisting.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of relevant experience is required for candidates with a master's degree, or seven years for those with a bachelor's degree. Experience should include resource management, financial reporting, and familiarity with UNDP or international development agencies. Candidates should also have experience in financial audit processes, managing multi-donor budgets, and developing grant budget proposals.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Tongan is mandatory for this position, ensuring effective communication with stakeholders and project partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of a project aimed at addressing climate change impacts in Tonga, specifically focusing on coastal protection and adaptation measures. The role may involve working with various stakeholders, including government institutions, NGOs, and local communities. UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination. The organization reserves the right to select multiple candidates and may retain applications for similar positions.