Accounts Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, employing approximately 4,000 staff members worldwide. The organization is dedicated to advancing reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and population and development issues. UNFPA's mission is guided by the principles of human rights and the need for sustainable development, aiming to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

Job Overview:
The Accounts Specialist, based at UNFPA Headquarters in New York, is responsible for leading the Finance Branch's Statutory Reporting Unit (SRU) team. This role involves overseeing the preparation of IPSAS-compliant financial statements, ensuring compliance with International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS), and coordinating with various UNFPA offices to enhance financial management practices. The Accounts Specialist serves as the technical and operational lead for statutory financial reporting and IPSAS implementation, working closely with field offices and headquarters units to establish effective processes. The position requires a strong focus on client-oriented service, technical expertise, and the ability to manage complex financial data and reporting requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Accounts Specialist will lead the SRU, providing expertise and guidance in several key areas. Responsibilities include serving as UNFPA's lead technical resource on IPSAS matters, supporting the Chief of Accounts and Financial Management, and representing UNFPA in inter-agency accounting forums. The role involves leading efforts to adopt new accounting standards, developing and updating accounting policies, and supervising accounting in specialized areas such as employee benefits and financial instruments. The Accounts Specialist will also support the annual closure of accounts, prepare IPSAS-compliant financial statements, and ensure timely and accurate financial reporting. Additionally, the position requires monitoring compliance with corporate policies, developing quality assurance controls, and acting as the primary technical focal point for audit matters.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Finance, Accounting, or related fields. An internationally recognized professional accountancy qualification, combined with a bachelor's degree in the aforementioned fields, is considered equivalent to an advanced degree. The role requires at least 7 years of progressively responsible experience in accounting or financial auditing, including a minimum of 4 years in supervisory and coordination roles. Demonstrated experience in preparing financial statements, applying IFRS or IPSAS, and developing accounting policies is essential. Familiarity with financial systems implementations and data reporting tools is advantageous, as is experience with the Oracle ERP system.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field. Candidates with an internationally recognized professional accountancy qualification, along with a bachelor's degree in the same fields, will also be considered qualified. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding complex financial regulations and standards, particularly those related to IPSAS and IFRS.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in accounting or financial auditing, with at least 4 years in supervisory and coordination roles. Candidates should have experience in preparing and supervising the preparation of financial statements, particularly in environments with global and complex datasets. Demonstrated experience in applying IPSAS or IFRS, as well as developing and implementing financial policies and procedures, is essential. Experience with financial systems implementations, including data conversion and user training, is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. A working knowledge of other official UN languages is highly desirable, as it enhances communication and collaboration within the diverse international environment of UNFPA.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request. UNFPA is committed to equal opportunities in recruitment and selection, ensuring that all candidates are treated fairly regardless of personal characteristics.