Finance and Operations Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. The organization operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 12,000 employees. FAO's work is guided by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, focusing on transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Operations Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the ADAPT Jamaica project, which aims to enhance climate change resilience among vulnerable smallholder farmers in Central Jamaica. This position involves providing integrated financial and operational support, ensuring that project activities are executed in compliance with FAO and Green Climate Fund (GCF) rules and procedures. The assistant will be responsible for budget monitoring, financial reporting, procurement follow-up, and operational tracking, all of which are essential for the timely delivery of project objectives. The role requires close collaboration with various stakeholders, including national institutions and implementing partners, to ensure effective coordination and documentation of project activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance and Operations Assistant will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: monitoring project budget execution, preparing financial forecasts and expenditure reports, tracking commitments and disbursements, maintaining accurate financial records, processing payments and reimbursements, supporting the preparation of periodic financial reports, monitoring Letters of Agreement (LoAs) and contracts, preparing requisitions, tracking orders, maintaining asset records, supporting project activity planning and implementation, updating project information in corporate systems, liaising with FAO units and national partners, coordinating with administrative staff on financial processes, assisting in audits and evaluations, and performing any other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree or technical training in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Public Administration, Industrial Engineering, Economics, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of three years of relevant experience in financial and administrative support is required, preferably within international organizations or development projects. A working knowledge of English, both spoken and written, is mandatory, and candidates must be nationals of Jamaica.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree or technical training in fields related to business administration, finance, accounting, public administration, industrial engineering, or economics. Candidates must ensure that their qualifications are recognized by the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires at least three years of relevant experience in financial and administrative support roles. Experience within international organizations or development projects is preferred, as it provides candidates with the necessary understanding of the operational and financial frameworks that govern such environments.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. While not explicitly stated, proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the local context or the stakeholders involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position may involve full-time work, and candidates should be prepared for the responsibilities associated with supporting a significant international project.