Finance Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on reproductive health and rights, aiming to ensure that every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to advancing the health and rights of individuals worldwide. The organization is committed to addressing complex global challenges through its strategic plans, including the current Strategic Plan for 2026-2029, which outlines its response to a rapidly changing world and aims to accelerate the implementation of the Programme of Action from the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 203

• UNFPA's mission is pursued through four interconnected outcomes: improving access to family planning, reducing maternal deaths, eliminating gender-based violence, and adapting to demographic changes with evidence-based policies that respect individual rights and choices.

Job Overview:
The Finance Assistant position at UNFPA Gambia Country Office is crucial for delivering high-quality financial and administrative services to both internal and external clients. The incumbent will report to the coordinator" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Technical Coordinator and will be responsible for ensuring compliance with UNFPA rules and guidelines, particularly in relation to the EU-ISEY project. The role requires a client-oriented and results-focused approach, where the Finance Assistant will interpret financial rules and procedures, provide guidance, and ensure timely follow-up actions for compliance. The Finance Assistant will execute financial management tasks, including budgeting and expenditure tracking, while also overseeing grant management for local civil society organizations and NGOs. This position is integral to maintaining the financial integrity of UNFPA's projects and ensuring that all financial operations align with organizational standards and regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Assistant will be responsible for a variety of financial operations, including executing all financial management tasks related to UNFPA's project activities. This includes budgeting, expenditure tracking, and ensuring compliance with UNFPA rules and the Financial and Administrative Framework Agreement (FAFA) with the EU. The incumbent will provide financial oversight for grants issued to local civil society organizations and NGOs, ensuring that community engagement and mentorship initiatives are adequately funded and managed. Additionally, the Finance Assistant will review and process travel claims, consultant fees, and vendor payments, ensuring that all transactions are supported by appropriate documentation. The role also involves retrieving and compiling documentation for audits, spot checks, and annual financial reports, thereby ensuring transparency and accountability in financial reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a completed secondary education with at least five years of relevant experience, or a bachelor's degree in finance or accounting with a minimum of two years of experience. Familiarity with UN/UNFPA procedures, as well as proficiency in ERP/PeopleSoft systems and Excel, is essential. The ideal candidate should demonstrate strong attention to detail, integrity, and the ability to work effectively in a multi-partner environment. Additionally, candidates should embody the values of the UNFPA, including commitment to the organization and the UN system, embracing cultural diversity, and adapting to change.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for the Finance Assistant position include either a completed secondary education with significant relevant experience or a bachelor's degree in finance or accounting. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to manage financial operations effectively and comply with UNFPA's financial guidelines and procedures.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of five years of relevant experience if they hold a secondary education, or at least two years of experience if they possess a bachelor's degree in finance or accounting. This experience should ideally include financial management tasks, compliance with organizational financial processes, and oversight of grants and funding for community projects.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with strong verbal and written communication skills. This proficiency is crucial for effective collaboration with internal teams and external partners, as well as for the preparation of financial reports and documentation.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, annual leave, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, teamwork, and diversity. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process and is committed to ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates.