Project Finance Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading UN organization dedicated to eradicating poverty and reducing inequalities through sustainable development. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to help nations build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet. The organization focuses on three main outcome areas: Planet, Prosperity, and Peace, aligning its efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP's Pacific Multi-Country Office (MCO) is based in Fiji and supports ten countries in the Pacific region, including the Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Nauru, Palau, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. The current Multi-Country Programme Document (MCPD) for 2023-2027 aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) and regional priorities under the 2030 Agenda and the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity and encourages individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities to apply, ensuring that all applications are treated with the utmost confidentiality.

Job Overview:
The Project Finance Associate will play a crucial role in managing financial resources for the Pacific Digital Economy Programme (PDEP) and the Pacific Insurance and Climate Adaptation Programme (PICAP). This position requires a high level of efficiency in financial management, ensuring accurate and well-documented financial information is provided. The associate will work closely with the PDEP and PICAP managers, as well as the Programme Coordinator, to ensure compliance with UNDP's financial regulations and policies. The role involves supporting procurement activities, managing project budgets, and ensuring the transparent utilization of financial resources. The associate will also be responsible for maintaining project documentation and facilitating knowledge sharing within the organization. This position is essential for the successful implementation of projects aimed at building inclusive and sustainable digital economies and enhancing financial preparedness for climate-related shocks in the Pacific region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Associate will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Provision of administrative services and implementation of operational strategies, ensuring compliance with UNDP procurement rules and regulations, preparing procurement plans, and managing reporting requirements.
• Management of project finance and budgets, guiding the Programme Coordinator in day-to-day finance activities, updating work plans and budgets in the UNDP Corporate ERP system, and advising on project budget implementation.
• Maintenance and archiving of project documentation, ensuring all materials are properly maintained and confidential materials are safeguarded.
• Facilitation of knowledge building and sharing, synthesizing lessons learned and best practices in programme and project finance. The associate will also perform other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the office and the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a secondary education or a university degree (Bachelor’s degree) in Finance, Accountancy, or a related field. Fully qualified accountants from internationally accredited institutes or those who have completed the UNDP Finance Training and Certification Programme (FTCP) will be given preference. Candidates without professional accountancy qualifications but with relevant degrees must complete the FTCP if recruited. Additionally, candidates with no professional qualifications but relevant experience must successfully undertake the UNDP Accountancy and Finance Test (AFT) before shortlisting and complete the FTCP if recruited.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a secondary education as a minimum, with a preference for candidates holding a Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accountancy, or a related field. Professional qualifications from recognized accounting institutes or completion of the UNDP Finance Training and Certification Programme (FTCP) are highly desirable. Candidates without professional qualifications but with relevant degrees must complete the FTCP upon recruitment, while those with relevant experience must pass the AFT before being considered for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of progressive relevant experience in project financial management and reporting within UNDP, UN agencies, or international development agencies. Those with a Bachelor’s degree may qualify with four years of relevant experience. Experience in financial audit processes, managing multi-donor budgets, and meeting donor reporting requirements is also essential. Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and experience in administration, procurement, and human resources will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. A working knowledge of local languages such as Fiji Hindi or iTaukei is considered a desirable asset, enhancing communication and engagement with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role within the UNDP framework, and candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of their background, as UNDP values diversity and inclusivity. The organization does not tolerate any form of harassment or discrimination and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks to ensure adherence to UNDP's standards and principles. The organization reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions at the same grade level.