Finance Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 employees dedicated to helping millions of people worldwide. The organization is committed to promoting international protection and finding durable solutions for refugees and displaced persons.

Job Overview:
The Finance Associate position is a critical role within UNHCR, primarily responsible for assisting in the processing of financial transactions and maintaining financial records. The incumbent will work under the supervision of a senior finance colleague, who will provide guidance and define general work objectives. This role requires frequent interaction with staff at various levels and local bank officials to exchange information and ensure compliance with UNHCR financial rules and procedures. The Finance Associate will also be involved in preparing reports for budget preparation, audits, and other financial matters, thereby playing a vital role in the financial management of the organization. The position demands a high level of proficiency in MS Office applications and a strong affinity for IT, as well as familiarity with financial management systems such as C ERP Finance and Workday applications. The incumbent will also be expected to support the identification and management of risks and opportunities impacting financial objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Associate will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to: maintaining financial records and monitoring systems to accurately record and reconcile expenditures, balances, payments, and other data for daily transactions and reports; selecting and entering data from various documents, verifying accuracy, and ensuring the inclusion of all relevant data; preparing recurring and special reports as required for budget preparation and audits; advising and assisting staff members on financial matters such as allowances, salary advances, and travel claims; maintaining liaison with local bank officials to obtain information on exchange rates and changes in procedures; preparing detailed cost estimates and participating in budget analysis; initiating correspondence to verify data and answer queries; verifying that financial transactions comply with UNHCR rules; and performing other related duties as required. The Finance Associate will also be responsible for supporting risk management and ensuring decision-making is informed by risk assessments.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Finance Associate position must possess a high level of IT affinity, particularly with MS Office applications and financial management systems such as PeopleSoft. Essential qualifications include knowledge of UN/UNHCR financial rules and procedures, as well as completion of relevant UNHCR learning programs or specific training related to the functions of the position. Desirable qualifications include knowledge and work experience with Cloud ERP systems. The role requires a proactive approach to financial management and a commitment to upholding UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Finance Associate position includes a minimum of a High School Diploma with three years of relevant experience, or a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with two years of relevant work experience. While specific fields of education are not mandated, certifications in Accounting, Business Administration, or Finance are considered essential for this role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant work experience in finance, accounting, or administrative support. Specifically, candidates should have three years of experience with a High School Diploma or two years with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Experience in financial management within an international organization, particularly in relation to UN financial rules and procedures, is highly desirable.

Languages:
For this position, knowledge of English is mandatory, along with the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. For national professional jobs, knowledge of the local language is also required. Proficiency in additional languages is considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration within the diverse UNHCR workforce.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA6 category and is not remote. The target start date for the role is April 1, 202

• The position is subject to a hardship level E classification, indicating a challenging working environment. Candidates should be aware that no late applications will be accepted, and shortlisted candidates may be required to complete a written test and/or oral interview as part of the selection process. UNHCR does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process and strongly encourages qualified female applicants to apply.