Communication and Reporting Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the United Nations’ global development network, established on January 1, 196

• It operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, focusing on eradicating poverty and reducing inequalities and exclusion. UNDP aims to develop policies, enhance leadership skills, and build resilience to sustain development results. The organization is committed to advancing the global sustainable development agenda, particularly through the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which seeks to end poverty and ensure peace and prosperity for all. UNDP collaborates with various donors, including Japan, Germany, Sweden, and the European Union, to implement recovery and stabilization strategies in crisis-affected communities, particularly in the North-West and South-West regions of Cameroon. The organization plays a crucial role in supporting countries to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is involved in initiatives like the Presidential Plan for Reconstruction and Development (PPRD) to address socio-economic challenges in these regions.

Job Overview:
The Communication and Reporting Assistant will be an integral part of the National Stabilization Window team, working under the supervision of the Project Coordinator. This position is critical for supporting the Recovery Programme, which aims to address the socio-economic impacts of the crisis in the North-West and South-West regions of Cameroon. The role involves providing accounting, finance, and administrative support, ensuring compliance with UNDP financial processes, and facilitating knowledge sharing among program personnel. The assistant will be responsible for maintaining financial records, preparing financial reports, and assisting in the implementation of operational strategies. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including colleagues from other projects, to ensure effective communication and reporting on the program's progress and achievements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communication and Reporting Assistant will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Providing accounting, finance, and administrative support to the Recovery Programme, ensuring compliance with UNDP policies and procedures.
• Preparing various financial documents, including vouchers and payment executions, while maintaining an internal expenditures control system.
• Taking timely corrective actions on unposted vouchers and erroneous data in the financial system.
• Assisting with queries related to payment issues and notifying payees about payment statuses.
• Implementing operational and financial management strategies, including cost-saving measures and internal control frameworks.
• Supporting the reconciliation of financial data and drafting financial inputs for program reports.
• Organizing training sessions for program personnel on financial management and synthesizing lessons learned in this area.
• Contributing to knowledge networks and communities of practice within the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Communication and Reporting Assistant position should possess a strong understanding of financial processes and operations relevant to UNDP. They should demonstrate discretion, political sensitivity, and the ability to liaise with various stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to work independently, and a commitment to the values and ethical standards of the UN. Additionally, they should be responsive, client-oriented, and capable of managing information confidentially and accurately. A commitment to continuous learning and the ability to adapt to changes in the work environment are also essential.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field is required for this position. Candidates with relevant certifications in financial management or accounting will have an advantage. A strong academic background that demonstrates analytical and problem-solving skills is essential for success in this role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of two years of relevant experience in finance, accounting, or administrative support, preferably within an international organization or development context. Experience in financial reporting, compliance, and operational management is highly desirable. Familiarity with UNDP policies and procedures will be considered an asset, as will experience working in crisis-affected regions or with recovery programs.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of French is highly desirable, given the bilingual nature of Cameroon. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the local context may also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position is a national UN Volunteer assignment, meaning that the selected candidate will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The living conditions in Yaoundé are relatively good, but housing costs can be high, especially in areas frequented by international personnel. The candidate should be prepared for occasional power cuts and water shortages. The role may require travel within the area of operations and the ability to adapt to potentially challenging living conditions.