Finance Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Iraq is dedicated to supporting the country in achieving its sustainable development goals as outlined in the Agenda 203

• Established to enhance the effectiveness of development efforts, UNDP Iraq operates within the framework of the government of Iraq’s National Development Plan and the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2025-202
• The organization emphasizes a collaborative approach to development, focusing on aligning projects and programs with national priorities and UNDP's corporate strategy. UNDP Iraq is committed to fostering innovation and thought leadership while ensuring effective financial management and accountability in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Finance Associate position is crucial for the effective execution of financial services and processes within the UNDP Country Office in Iraq. This role involves ensuring the transparent utilization of financial resources and promoting a client-oriented approach in line with UNDP regulations. The Finance Associate will work closely with various teams within the Country Office and with UNDP headquarters to resolve finance-related issues and enhance financial performance. The position requires a proactive approach to financial management, including the administration of budgets, accounting support, cash management, and knowledge sharing within the organization. The Finance Associate will also be responsible for implementing cost-saving strategies and ensuring compliance with financial policies and procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the administration and implementation of operational strategies by ensuring compliance with UNDP financial processes and internal controls. This includes monitoring financial exception reports, preparing financial records, and implementing cost-saving strategies.
• Assist in the administration of budgets for management projects, including preparing and modifying budgets, ensuring timely budget revisions, and maintaining detailed records of funds.
• Provide accounting and administrative support to the Finance unit, including preparing financial reports, maintaining internal expenditure control systems, and coordinating project closures.
• Ensure proper cash and treasury management by reviewing cash positions, preparing bank reconciliations, and forecasting cash flow needs.
• Facilitate knowledge building and sharing by organizing training for staff on finance and compliance matters and contributing to knowledge networks.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess secondary education with specialized certification in accounting and/or finance, or a university degree in finance or accounting. Part-qualified accountants from internationally accredited institutes will have an advantage. Candidates without professional qualifications must complete the UNDP Finance Training and Certification Programme if recruited. Experience in finance and accounting, particularly in a UN context, is highly desirable. Knowledge of IPSAS and/or IFRS is required, along with proficiency in office software and ERP systems.

Educational Background:
A secondary education is required, with specialized certification in accounting and/or finance. A university degree in finance or accounting is desirable. Candidates with professional accountancy qualifications from internationally accredited institutes will be preferred. Completion of the UNDP Finance Training and Certification Programme is mandatory for candidates without professional qualifications.

Experience:
A minimum of 6 years of progressively responsible finance and accounting experience is required for candidates with secondary education, or 3 years for those with a bachelor's degree. Experience in using office software and advanced knowledge of spreadsheets and web-based management systems is essential. Familiarity with UNDP operations and financial regulations is an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, along with fluency in Arabic or Kurdish. Proficiency in additional languages may be beneficial but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term appointment with a probationary period for new staff. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applicants from all backgrounds to apply. UNDP does not charge fees during the recruitment process and adheres to strict standards against harassment and discrimination.