Budget and Finance Administration Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and is responsible for analyzing the state of the global environment, providing scientific advice and evidence, data analytics, statistics, and intelligence to catalyze and promote international cooperation and action on environmental issues. The organization operates globally, with a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices and to provide leadership and encourage partnership in caring for the environment. UNEP was established in 1972 and has a workforce that spans multiple countries, working collaboratively to address pressing environmental challenges.

Job Overview:
The Budget and administration" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Finance Administration Officer position is critical within the UNEP's Strategy and Operations Section (SSOS), Office of Science, located in Nairobi. The incumbent will be responsible for a variety of financial management tasks, including budget preparation, monitoring expenditures, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. This role requires a strong understanding of budgetary processes and the ability to analyze financial data to support decision-making. The officer will work closely with intergovernmental and expert bodies, providing substantive support and ensuring that financial resources are allocated efficiently and effectively. The position demands a proactive approach to identifying budgetary issues and recommending solutions, as well as the ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to stakeholders. The officer will also contribute to data collection and analysis, identifying trends that inform strategic planning and reporting.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to: preparing allotments and monitoring budget implementation; recommending reallocations of funds as necessary; ensuring expenditures remain within authorized levels; reviewing requisitions for goods and services; administering extra-budgetary resources; assisting in the preparation of budget performance submissions; analyzing variances between approved budgets and actual expenditures; providing budgetary and financial management support to the Scientific and Technical Advisory Panel of the Global Environment Facility (GEF-STAP); keeping up to date with relevant documents and guidelines; contributing to data collection and analysis; and performing other related duties as assigned. The role requires a meticulous approach to financial administration and a commitment to maintaining high standards of accountability and professionalism.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong foundation in budget and finance administration, with knowledge of financial analysis and compliance. The ability to identify and resolve budgetary problems, analyze data, and convey information effectively is essential. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to gender perspectives and equal participation in all areas of work. Professionalism, communication skills, and accountability are key competencies required for this role. The ideal candidate will show pride in their work, demonstrate efficiency in meeting commitments, and remain calm under pressure.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in business administration, finance, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable, indicating a strong analytical background that complements the financial management responsibilities of the role.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressive experience in finance, administration, budget, or business administration is required. Candidates should have experience in cost management, budget formulation, financial monitoring, accounting, audit, and financial reporting. Experience working with the United Nations or a similar international organization is desirable, as is familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems such as Umoja. Additionally, at least one year of experience in data analytics or a related area is desirable, although this requirement may be waived for candidates who have successfully completed the Young Professionals Programme (YPP) or hold a related degree at the P-1 level.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is considered a desirable language, also requiring a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II. Proficiency in both languages will enhance communication and collaboration within the diverse environment of the United Nations.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position is classified as fixed-term, and external candidates selected will be granted a fixed-term appointment limited in accordance with UN administrative instructions. The United Nations Secretariat is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. All applicants must ensure that their profiles are complete and up to date, as this information is crucial for assessing eligibility and suitability for the position. The recruitment process is free of charge, and the United Nations does not require any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.