Chief, Finance and Budget Section

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established to promote economic and social development in Africa. Its mission is to deliver ideas and actions for an empowered and transformed Africa, informed by the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 206

• The ECA operates with five strategic directions aimed at addressing the continent's challenges through knowledge, policy options, innovative financing models, and advocacy at the global level. The organization has a significant presence in various African countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to the continent's development.

Job Overview:
The Chief of the Finance and Budget Section is responsible for overseeing the preparation and management of the medium-term plan and budget for the Economic Commission for Africa. This role involves ensuring that legislative mandates are accurately translated into program budgets, coordinating budget submissions, and providing substantive support to intergovernmental bodies during budget reviews. The Chief will also manage budget administration, monitor expenditures, and ensure compliance with established policies and procedures. This position requires a proactive approach to budget management and the ability to provide technical advice to managers, ensuring that financial resources are utilized effectively to support the organization's goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief, Finance and Budget Section will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: planning and organizing the preparation of the medium-term plan; coordinating budget submissions from various departments; reviewing and finalizing budget proposals; managing allotments and expenditures; administering extra-budgetary resources; overseeing budget performance reports; providing guidance and training to staff on budgetary policies; participating in inter-departmental meetings; preparing reports for intergovernmental bodies; and ensuring compliance with UN policies. The Chief will also lead a team in data collection and analysis to support decision-making and reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of financial and budgetary principles, proven analytical skills, and the ability to manage programs in a field operation. They should demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and leadership in their work. The ideal candidate will have experience in formulating strategies for budget management and be able to analyze and interpret data to support decision-making. A commitment to gender perspectives and the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work is essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or Doctorate) in business administration, finance, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level degree (Bachelor’s) in the specified fields with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted. Successful completion of programs in data analytics or business analytics is considered an advantage.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in finance, administration, budget, or business administration. Experience in data analytics or related areas is desirable, indicating a strong background in managing financial resources and budgetary processes.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is considered desirable, also at UN Level III proficiency. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both languages, as they are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporary and may be limited to internal candidates or those based at the duty station. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and candidates are urged to apply online as soon as possible.