Finance and Administrative Officer

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. UNEP was established in 1972 and operates in over 150 countries, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to environmental issues. The organization works closely with various international agreements, including CITES, which aims to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Administrative Officer position is critical within the CITES Secretariat, located in Geneva. The incumbent will be responsible for budget formulation, governance support, and financial management, ensuring that the financial resources of the Secretariat are managed efficiently and effectively. This role involves advising senior leadership on financial policies, coordinating administrative services, and managing trust funds. The officer will also oversee human resources management, procurement, compliance, and risk management, ensuring adherence to UN standards and regulations. The position requires a proactive approach to financial planning and project management, with a focus on supporting the implementation of CITES programs and projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Budget formulation and governance support: Define CITES budgetary and financial needs, draft the Secretariat’s core budget, and present reports on budgetary matters to governing bodies.
• Programme and project planning: Provide guidance to programme officers on project formulation and implementation, ensuring compliance with UN rules.
• Financial policy advice: Support the Secretary-General in managing financial resources and advising on UN financial regulations.
• Administrative services: Coordinate administrative services related to the CITES Trust Fund and donor funding, oversee project closure, and facilitate audits.
• Financial services: Ensure effective management of financial resources, prepare donor reports, and maintain internal control frameworks.
• Human resources management: Oversee HR services, recruitment, and performance management.
• General services and procurement: Manage procurement processes, maintain inventory records, and respond to audit requests.
• Business continuity: Develop and test business continuity plans and coordinate risk mitigation measures.
• Team leadership: Supervise and mentor staff, identify training needs, and promote a culture of compliance and improvement. 1
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Secretary General.

Required Qualifications:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business or public administration, finance, accounting, or a related field is required. A first level university degree with additional relevant experience may be accepted. A recognized professional accounting and project management qualification (e.g., CPA, ACCA, CA, PRINCE) is desirable. Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of UN financial regulations and policies, as well as experience in financial management and administration.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business or public administration, finance, accounting, or a related field. Alternatively, a first level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. Successful completion of degree or non-degree programmes in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to analyze and interpret financial data effectively.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in administration, financial management, accounting, or a related area is required. This includes at least five years of experience in managing extra budgetary resources and developing cost plans. Candidates should have experience in budget formulation and negotiation with intergovernmental bodies, as well as providing financial advice to senior management. Experience with project management and financial modules of ERP systems, such as SAP/Umoja, is essential. Supervisory experience of at least two years is also required, along with experience in preparing responses for governing bodies in an international organization.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required, while either French or Spanish is desirable. Candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of proficiency in these languages according to the UN Language Framework, with English being essential for effective communication in the role.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is for an initial period of one year and may be subject to extension based on the availability of funding and the continued existence of the mandate. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The position is full-time, and candidates are expected to adhere to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.