National Finance Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek (POiB) is part of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), which was established to promote peace, stability, and democracy in Europe. The POiB focuses on a variety of security issues, including counter-terrorism, border security, and transnational threats such as human trafficking. It also works on regional development, combating corruption, supporting justice sector reforms, implementing election reforms, promoting gender equality, and building open and resilient societies. The organization operates in multiple countries across Europe and has a mission to foster cooperation among its member states to address security challenges. The POiB employs a diverse workforce and is committed to inclusivity and diversity in its hiring practices.

Job Overview:
The National Finance Officer position is critical for supporting the management and oversight of the financial operations of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek. The incumbent will ensure effective implementation of OSCE Financial Regulations, Rules, and Instructions, maintaining the accuracy and integrity of financial records. This role involves overseeing budget execution and expenditure control, ensuring timely processing of payments, and preparing financial reports. The National Finance Officer will also monitor compliance with internal controls, coordinate financial planning and forecasting, and provide financial advice to Programme Managers. The position requires a proactive approach to enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of the financial operations within the office, while staying updated on developments in accounting standards and financial management practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will be responsible for a range of duties including: monitoring and supporting the application of the OSCE Common Regulatory Management System (CRMS), particularly the Financial Regulations and Financial Administrative Instructions; advising Programme Managers on the efficient use of financial resources; reviewing and verifying financial transactions; ensuring accurate recording and reporting of financial operations; maintaining efficient financial services including treasury, accounting, budget operations, and travel management; preparing and consolidating the Office’s Unified Budget (UB) and Extra-Budgetary (ExB) project proposals; monitoring expenditures against approved budgets; preparing periodic financial reports for stakeholders; verifying accounting entries in the General Ledger; conducting account reconciliations; maintaining financial databases; providing training to staff on financial policies; and representing the Finance Unit in internal meetings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or economics. Certification from a recognized professional accountancy body, such as Certified Public Accountants or Chartered Accountants, is considered an asset. A minimum of four years of progressively responsible professional experience in accounting, finance, or budgeting is required, with two years of experience acceptable if the candidate holds a second-level university degree. Candidates should demonstrate computer literacy, particularly with advanced Microsoft applications and ERP systems like Oracle or SAP. Extensive experience in Unified Budget (UB) and Extra-Budgetary (ExB) planning and forecasting, financial reporting, and programme-based budgeting is essential, along with a desirable background in IPSAS accrual-based accounting. Candidates should also exhibit gender awareness and sensitivity, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a first-level university degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or economics. Additional qualifications such as certification from a recognized professional accountancy body would enhance a candidate's profile. A second-level university degree may reduce the required years of experience, allowing candidates with advanced degrees to qualify with fewer years in a relevant role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of progressively responsible professional experience in accounting, finance, or budgeting. Candidates with a second-level university degree may qualify with two years of relevant experience. Experience in an international organization is preferred, as it provides valuable context for understanding the complexities of financial operations in a global setting.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory. Proficiency in local languages, specifically Russian and Kyrgyz, is also required to facilitate effective communication within the local context and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time, fixed-term contract at the National Professional level (NP2). The monthly remuneration is 1818.92 Euro, subject to social security deductions, and includes participation in the Cigna medical insurance scheme and the OSCE Provident Fund. The OSCE is committed to diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds. The organization does not reimburse expenses related to the application process, and candidates must be aware that appointments are subject to medical clearance. The mandatory retirement age for contracted positions is 65 years, and the OSCE applies an age limit of 62 years at the time of appointment.