Finance and Budget Officer (UN System-Wide IPSAS Project Coordinator)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations System is a collective of 37 organizations that work together to promote international cooperation and address global challenges. Established to foster peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and development, the UN operates in numerous countries worldwide, engaging in various initiatives to support sustainable development, human rights, and humanitarian efforts. The UN System's mission is to maintain international peace and security, promote sustainable development, and uphold human rights. The organization employs thousands of individuals across the globe, working collaboratively to implement its goals and objectives.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Budget Officer (UN System-Wide IPSAS Project Coordinator) plays a crucial role in the implementation and coordination of the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) across the United Nations System. This position is situated within the Office of Programme Planning, Finance and Budget (OPPFB) in the United Nations Secretariat in New York City. The incumbent will report directly to the Chair of the UN System Task Force on Accounting Standards (TFAS) and will be responsible for facilitating dialogue among UN organizations regarding accounting and financial reporting practices. The role involves supporting the Task Force in its mission to promote consistent application of IPSAS requirements, monitoring accounting diversity, and addressing implementation challenges. The Finance and Budget Officer will also engage in the ongoing development of IPSAS standards and represent the UN System at IPSAS Board meetings, ensuring that the organization's perspectives are effectively communicated.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance and Budget Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: assisting with coordination and liaison among United Nations System organizations; supporting the Chair of the Task Force on Accounting Standards; facilitating the monitoring and management of accounting diversity; conducting in-depth analyses of IPSAS-related issues; soliciting technical advice on IPSAS matters; facilitating discussions on common implementation issues; drafting progress reports for governing bodies; providing support to the High-Level Committee on Management networks; interacting with audit functions; maintaining collaborative web-based platforms; and managing the overall activities and financial resources of the IPSAS project. The incumbent will also be expected to keep abreast of developments in IPSAS standards and ensure effective communication and information sharing among stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess expert knowledge of international accounting standards, particularly IPSAS, and demonstrate managerial experience in relevant areas. Strong analytical skills and the ability to provide technical advice to stakeholders are essential. The ideal candidate will exhibit professionalism, efficiency in meeting commitments, and a commitment to gender equality in the workplace. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, are required, along with the ability to tailor messages to different audiences. Strong planning and organizational skills are also necessary, including the ability to set clear goals, prioritize tasks, and manage time effectively.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in accounting or a related field is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) combined with two additional years of relevant work experience in accounting or a related area may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Accountant (CA), or equivalent is mandatory for candidates.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in the development of accounting policies is required, with a preference for candidates who have experience in the public standard-setting process. Management experience in adopting international accounting standards, particularly IPSAS, is essential. Relevant experience with a UN system organization or a similar international organization during the conversion to a new accounting standard is desirable. Candidates should also have progressively responsible experience in the standards-setting process and exposure to public sector accounting or financial auditing.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, while French is also recognized as a working language of the United Nations Secretariat. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in English, with the ability to communicate effectively in both written and spoken forms. Familiarity with French is considered an asset, although not mandatory for this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in New York City and is part of the United Nations Secretariat. The role is full-time and involves collaboration with various UN organizations and stakeholders. The Finance and Budget Officer will be expected to engage in ongoing professional development and may participate in international meetings and conferences related to IPSAS implementation. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with UN standards, and the organization is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.