Finance and Budget 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 aims to deliver effective strategic guidance and high-impact action in support of the transition towards climate stability. The organization is committed to addressing climate change mitigation and adaptation through enhancing implementation capacity, provision of data information and knowledge, access to finance and technology, and building resilience. UNEP operates globally, working with Member States and partners to promote sustainable development and effective policies for climate stability.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Budget Officer position is located within UNEP's Climate Change Division, specifically in the Mitigation Branch of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Climate Mitigation Unit. The incumbent will be responsible for overseeing financial management and budgetary processes related to various projects. This role requires a strong understanding of financial rules and regulations, as well as the ability to analyze financial data and reports. The officer will work closely with executing agencies to ensure that project expenditures align with approved budgets and deliverables. The position demands a proactive approach to financial oversight, including the preparation of budget performance submissions and reports, as well as assisting in the financial closure of projects. The officer will also be involved in providing guidance and training to other staff members in financial matters, ensuring compliance with UNEP policies and procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Finance and Budget Officer include reviewing cost estimates and budgets for project proposals, monitoring expenditures against approved budgets, preparing adjustments as necessary, and assisting in the preparation of budget performance submissions. The officer will review expenditure reports from executing agencies, ensuring that expenditures are acceptable and do not exceed budget allocations. Additionally, the officer will assist in the financial closure of projects, prepare pre-commitments and commitments in UMOJA, and verify the accuracy of input data. The officer will also coordinate with other finance and budget staff, assist in the review and finalization of cash advance requests, and prepare payments for disbursement. General responsibilities include maintaining up-to-date electronic files, drafting correspondence related to financial matters, and assisting with data collection and analysis for reporting purposes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of seven years of progressive working experience in project financial management and/or project accounting. This requirement is reduced to five years for candidates with a first-level university degree. Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, such as UMOJA, is essential, along with experience in analyzing financial data and reports. Familiarity with grant management and donor reporting is also required. Candidates should have experience with UN financial rules and regulations and IPSAS accounting standards. Experience in Global Environment Facility (GEF) project/grant management, budgeting, accounting, and financial management is desirable, as well as experience in data analytics or related areas.

Educational Background:
Completion of a High School Diploma or equivalent is required. A qualification in business administration, accounting, finance, social sciences, or a related subject is desirable. Candidates with higher educational qualifications may have an advantage in the selection process.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in project financial management and/or project accounting. Candidates with a first-level university degree may qualify with five years of experience. Experience with ERP systems, financial data analysis, grant management, and familiarity with UN financial regulations is crucial for this role.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of either Spanish or Portuguese is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level I in these languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is for an initial period of one year and may be subject to extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The appointment is contingent upon local recruitment, and external candidates selected for this position will be granted a fixed-term appointment limited. Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be reassigned or transferred to other positions. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.