Finance & Budget Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a part of the United Nations system, established to promote and protect human rights globally. The OHCHR works to ensure that the rights of all individuals are respected and upheld, providing support to various UN bodies and member states in their efforts to implement human rights standards. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on a wide range of human rights issues, and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to advancing human rights for all.

Job Overview:
The Finance & Budget Officer position is critical within the Finance and Budget Section (FBS) of the OHCHR. The officer will be responsible for budget preparation and review, ensuring compliance with UN financial policies and procedures. This role involves supporting program officers in financial reviews, monitoring budget implementation, and providing advice on financial management. The officer will also prepare financial reports, analyze budget performance, and ensure effective use of resources. The position requires a strong understanding of financial management principles and the ability to work independently while collaborating with various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance & Budget Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: reviewing and finalizing cost plans and budgets for annual planning and project proposals; providing support to program officers regarding financial reviews; monitoring and controlling budget allotments; administering extra-budgetary resources; certifying financial authorizations and grant agreements; preparing periodic financial reports; analyzing data analytics reports to identify budget variances; performing internal reviews; and preparing responses to audit queries. The officer will also keep up-to-date with relevant guidelines and supervise subordinate staff as required, undertaking special projects as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of financial, budgetary, and grants management principles. They should demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research and analysis, formulate options, and present conclusions. Professionalism, accountability, and planning and organizing skills are essential. The officer should be able to work efficiently under pressure, meet deadlines, and incorporate gender perspectives into their work. The ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with diverse teams is also crucial.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in business administration, finance, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in finance, administration, budget, or business administration is required. Candidates should have at least four years of experience with budget and finance modules of UMOJA or similar enterprise resource planning systems, preferably SAP-based. Experience in the United Nations Common System or similar intergovernmental organizations is desirable, along with experience in grants management and applying budgetary policies and practices.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of French is desirable, as well as proficiency in Spanish, Russian, Arabic, or Chinese (Mandarin) at varying levels of proficiency.

Additional Notes:
This position is available temporarily for six months, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of funds. Candidates must adhere to specific eligibility requirements based on their current employment status within the UN system. The position is subject to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, and the UN is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.