Finance Analyst - Technical Support Unit

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been operational in India since 1951, focusing on various aspects of human development. The organization collaborates with the Government of India and other development partners to tackle issues such as poverty eradication, inequality reduction, local governance enhancement, community resilience building, environmental protection, and policy reform support. UNDP India operates in every state and union territory, working with national and subnational governments and diverse development actors to achieve people-centric results, particularly for marginalized communities. The organization is committed to supporting India's national development vision and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP India’s Country Programme for 2023-2027 aims to provide integrated development solutions across three strategic portfolios: strengthening accountable institutions for SDG achievement, enhancing economic opportunities and social protection for marginalized groups, and promoting climate-smart solutions for sustainable development. The program emphasizes South-South cooperation, gender equality, and social inclusion, supported by innovative partnerships and financial solutions.

Job Overview:
The Finance Analyst - Technical Support Unit will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the UNDP's Country Programme Document (2023-2027), particularly in relation to agricultural resilience and financial risk management for farmers in India. The position involves working closely with the National Programme Coordinator and various stakeholders, including the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. The Finance Analyst will be responsible for ensuring the effective engagement of stakeholders and the successful delivery of project objectives. This includes financial reporting, annual work plan preparation, audit report compilation, and coordination with crop insurance and database teams. The role also involves supporting capacity-building initiatives and managing project accounts, ensuring compliance with financial guidelines and standards. The Finance Analyst will contribute to the overall goal of enhancing agricultural productivity and resilience among farmers, particularly in the context of the challenges faced by the agricultural sector in India.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Analyst will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Financial Reporting Support: Assisting the Senior Finance Officer in preparing and submitting financial reports to the Government of India, UNDP, and other relevant agencies, ensuring accuracy and timely submission.
• Annual Work Plan Preparation: Supporting the preparation and regular updates of the annual work plan for the Project Management Unit (PMU) based on project priorities and guidance from senior management.
• Audit Report Collection and Compilation: Collecting, verifying, and compiling annual audit reports from states and implementing agencies, and submitting consolidated reports for review.
• Coordination with Crop Insurance and Database Teams: Collaborating with the Crop Insurance Portfolio team and database management team to maintain and update the premium subsidy database.
• Support in Capacity Building and Training: Assisting in planning and organizing capacity-building initiatives and training programs, including logistical arrangements.
• Project Accounts Management: Supporting the Senior Finance Officer in maintaining project accounts and ensuring adherence to financial rules and reporting standards.
• Preparation of Financial Statements: Assisting in the preparation and finalization of the programme’s financial statements in compliance with UNDP and Government requirements.
• Coordination with Government and Partners: Liaising with relevant government departments and project partners to ensure smooth coordination of project activities.
• Coordination with UNDP Country Office: Working closely with the UNDP Country Office Finance Unit for timely processing of project-related payments. 1
• Technical Support for Training Inputs: Providing technical inputs for training materials and capacity-building activities. 1
• Support in Progress Reporting: Providing financial inputs for progress reports submitted to UNDP and the Ministry of Agriculture. 1
• Performing other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a professional accounting qualification from an internationally accredited institute of accountancy, or an Advanced (Master’s) University Degree in Finance and/or Accounting. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with two years of qualifying experience will be considered. Candidates with professional accounting qualifications will have an advantage. Those without such qualifications but with degrees in accountancy or finance must complete the Finance Training and Certification Programme (FTCP) if recruited. Candidates with an MBA or master's in finance without accountancy qualifications must successfully undertake the UNDP Advanced Accountancy and Finance Test (AAFT) to be eligible for shortlisting. Experience in accounting and financial management is essential, along with the ability to perform tasks under guidance and supervision.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a professional accounting qualification from an internationally accredited institute or an Advanced University Degree in Finance and/or Accounting. A first-level university degree in combination with relevant experience is also acceptable. Candidates with no professional qualifications must complete the FTCP upon recruitment, while those with an MBA or master's in finance must pass the AAFT for eligibility.

Experience:
The level of experience required varies based on educational qualifications. Applicants with a Master’s degree in a relevant field are not required to have professional work experience. However, those with a Bachelor’s degree must have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience, particularly in advanced knowledge of accountancy and finance. Desired skills include experience in financial management and the legal environment in the insurance sector, as well as the ability to coordinate with various stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Hindi is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of a broader initiative to enhance agricultural resilience in India, focusing on financial risk management for farmers. The role is full-time, and UNDP is committed to equal opportunity employment, valuing diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and ensures that all selected candidates undergo relevant checks. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions. Importantly, UNDP does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.