Finance and Budget Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Budget and Project Finance Section of the Programme Support and Management Service at the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and is dedicated to promoting the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce committed to fostering sustainable development and economic growth. UNCTAD's mission is to support developing countries in their efforts to achieve inclusive and sustainable development through trade, investment, finance, and technology.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Budget Officer will play a crucial role in the Budget and Project Finance Section, reporting directly to the Chief of Section. This position involves a range of responsibilities including the review and analysis of proposed budgets and cost plans for technical assistance projects, ensuring compliance with United Nations regulations and rules, and providing substantive support to intergovernmental and expert bodies during budget reviews. The officer will also be responsible for budget preparation, administration, and monitoring, ensuring that expenditures remain within authorized levels and advising project managers proactively. The role requires a strong understanding of financial principles and practices, as well as the ability to conduct research and analysis independently. The Finance and Budget Officer will also be expected to keep up-to-date with budgetary and financial matters and supervise subordinate staff as required.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance and Budget Officer will be responsible for the following duties:

• Reviewing proposed budgets and cost plans for technical assistance projects, issuing allotments, and redeploying funds as necessary.
• Ensuring compliance with regulations by reviewing funding agreements, project documents, and memoranda of understanding.
• Translating legislative mandates into program budgets accurately.
• Analyzing data for cost estimates and budget proposals, providing guidance on financial regulations and rules.
• Supporting UNCTAD project officers on UMOJA Grants Management aspects.
• Preparing budget performance reports and analyzing variances between approved budgets and actual expenditures.
• Monitoring budget implementation and advising on fund reallocations.
• Administering extra-budgetary resources and ensuring compliance with established policies.
• Keeping up-to-date on budgetary and financial matters and supervising subordinate staff as required. 1
• Performing other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of financial principles and practices, with the ability to conduct independent research and analysis. The ideal candidate should demonstrate professional competence and mastery of subject matter, be conscientious in meeting commitments, and show persistence in overcoming challenges. The role requires a collaborative approach, valuing team input and supporting group decisions. A client-oriented mindset is essential, with the ability to establish productive partnerships and anticipate client needs.

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 experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in finance, administration, budget, or business administration is required. Candidates should have experience with ERP applications, particularly the finance module of Umoja, and experience in preparing financial reports for various donors. Familiarity with information technology tools for financial analysis and budget monitoring is desirable, as is experience in Umoja or ERP role mapping and user provisioning.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Desirable languages include Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), Russian, French, and Spanish, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level I in these languages.

Additional Notes:
This is a temporary position available until 31 July 2026, with the possibility of extensions based on the continuation of need, availability of post and funds, and satisfactory performance. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Candidates should be aware that there is no expectation of a fixed-term appointment following this temporary assignment. The position is subject to the United Nations' regulations and policies regarding temporary appointments.