Finance Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child, emphasizing equity and inclusion for the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families. UNICEF employs a diverse workforce and offers opportunities for professional and personal development, fostering a culture of belonging and growth. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that all children have the opportunity to survive, develop, and reach their full potential, without discrimination.

Job Overview:
The Finance Assistant position at UNICEF involves working in a Country Office where the individual will report to the Finance Officer. The role encompasses a variety of finance functions, ensuring accurate and timely delivery in compliance with UNICEF's financial rules and regulations. The Finance Assistant will be responsible for maintaining financial records, monitoring systems, and ensuring the reconciliation of expenditures and payments. This position requires a proactive approach to managing financial transactions and supporting the overall financial health of the organization. The Finance Assistant will also assist in preparing budget statements and reports, ensuring that all financial activities align with UNICEF's mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Assistant will handle a range of duties including cash and bank management, payment processing, and compliance with bank requirements. Responsibilities include managing financial records, updating database systems, preparing reports on assigned accounts, and calculating cost estimates. The role involves reviewing travel-related invoices, monitoring daily payments, validating transactions in VISION, and maintaining correspondence with local banks. The Finance Assistant will also assist newly arrived international staff with financial procedures and requirements, process payments related to various financial activities, and reconcile vendor and customer accounts monthly. This comprehensive set of responsibilities ensures that the financial operations of UNICEF run smoothly and efficiently.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary education, supplemented by relevant technical or university courses in a related discipline. A bachelor's degree may substitute for three years of related work experience, while a master's degree may replace an additional two years of experience. The role requires at least five years of relevant finance and accounting experience, including cash handling and administrative work. Proficiency in SAP financial modules and office software packages is essential, along with the ability to operate calculators or other accounting machines.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes completion of secondary education, with additional technical or university courses in finance or accounting. A bachelor's degree in a relevant field is preferred and can replace a portion of the required work experience. A master's degree may further reduce the experience requirement, indicating a strong academic foundation in finance or related disciplines.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in finance and accounting, particularly in cash handling and administrative roles. Candidates should have hands-on experience with financial management systems, specifically SAP, and be adept at using office software and web-based management systems. This level of experience ensures that the Finance Assistant can effectively manage financial transactions and support the organization's financial operations.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Arabic is mandatory for this position. This bilingual requirement is crucial for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time role within UNICEF, which is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce. The organization encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those with disabilities. UNICEF offers various benefits, including paid parental leave and flexible working arrangements. The role may require medical clearance and compliance with vaccination requirements. Candidates should be aware that UNICEF does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and has a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks to ensure adherence to UNICEF's standards and principles.