Finance & Budget Analyst Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Established in 1972, UNEP has a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it operates in over 150 countries worldwide. The UNEP Latin America and the Caribbean Office (LAC Office) is located in Panama City and works closely with the 33 countries of the region, integrating its activities into the Medium Term Strategy and the Programme of Work approved by the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA).

Job Overview:
The Finance & Budget Analyst Consultant will provide accurate and timely financial and administrative support to the UNEP LAC Office in Panama City. This role is crucial for ensuring compliance with United Nations regulations, rules, and procedures. The incumbent will assist in budget preparation, financial monitoring, and reporting processes, contributing to sound financial management and the proper utilization of resources. The position requires maintaining financial data, reconciliations, and supporting documentation accurately, which facilitates analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis and the preparation of reports. The consultant will also address audit queries and information requests in a timely manner, ensuring that financial records and administrative processes are organized and efficient, thereby supporting transparency, accountability, and operational effectiveness.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance & Budget Analyst Consultant will be responsible for a variety of duties under the general guidance of the Administrative Officer and in coordination with the National Officer. Key responsibilities include: assisting in the review and preparation of payment documentation for vendors and individual contractors; verifying banking details and sources of funds; notifying payees of payment statuses; monitoring bank account movements; preparing and dispatching payment instructions; supporting the preparation of receipts and recording deposits; assisting staff and project teams with payment-related queries; reviewing payment requests from implementing partners; reconciling project expenditures; providing administrative support for audit queries; monitoring unliquidated obligations; extracting financial data for budget preparation; compiling financial information for reports; and maintaining organized financial and administrative files.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a High School Diploma as a minimum requirement. A Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or administration is desirable, while a Master’s degree in these fields is also considered an asset. Additionally, candidates should have three years of experience in finance, budget, accounting, administration, or audit. Experience in the United Nations or other international organizations is advantageous, as it demonstrates familiarity with the operational environment and regulations.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma as a baseline. A Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or administration is preferred, and a Master’s degree in these areas is also desirable. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of financial management and administrative support within the context of the United Nations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in finance, budget, accounting, administration, or audit. This experience should ideally include work within the United Nations or similar international organizations, as it provides valuable insights into the specific financial regulations and procedures that govern the UN environment.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish and English is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is considered an asset, as it may enhance communication within the organization and with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time, requiring 40 hours of work per week from Monday to Friday. The expected duration of the contract is six months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and organizational needs. The role is based at the UNEP LAC Office in Panama City, Panama. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.