Director of Accounting and Finance Branch

Job Posting Organization:
The NATO International Staff (NATO IS) is a key component of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, established to facilitate cooperation among member nations in defense and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security matters. NATO IS plays a crucial role in the management of NATO's civil budget and financial operations, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to support the organization's mission. The organization is committed to maintaining high standards of financial integrity and accountability, operating across multiple countries with a diverse workforce.

Job Overview:
The Director of the Accounting and Finance Branch will lead the operational execution of NATO’s Civil and associated budgets, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and standards. This role involves directing a team responsible for financial management, overseeing the accuracy of financial transactions, and ensuring that all financial activities align with NATO's strategic objectives. The successful candidate will face significant challenges, including leading a financial process redesign, standardizing financial reporting, and defending financial statements to external auditors. The incumbent will also be expected to provide insights on the challenges facing the Accounting and Finance Branch and propose solutions to enhance operational efficiency.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for planning and executing financial transactions in accordance with NATO and International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS). They will oversee expenditure to confirm fund availability and manage the full financial statement process, ensuring the reliability of all financial data. Additionally, the Director will create a motivating workplace, providing mentoring and training opportunities for staff, and ensuring clarity in organizational objectives. They will drive the modernization of NATO’s financial functions, direct all budget and accounting operations, and ensure compliance with NATO regulations. The role also includes managing complex financial accounts and performing any other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must hold a university degree in economics, accounting, business administration, public administration, finance, management, or a related discipline, along with a professional accounting certification from a recognized chartered institute. They should have at least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in accounting and financial management, including a minimum of 5 years in leadership roles. Proven experience with high-end ERP systems such as Oracle e-Business Suite or SAP is essential, as well as proficiency in NATO’s official languages (English/French) at specified levels.

Educational Background:
A university degree in a relevant field such as economics, accounting, or finance is required. Additionally, a professional accounting certification from a recognized institution is mandatory. A relevant postgraduate degree or additional professional certifications would be considered advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in accounting and financial management, with at least 5 years in team management and leadership roles. Experience in an international organization, governmental body, or private sector is essential, along with familiarity with sophisticated ERP systems.

Languages:
Candidates must possess advanced proficiency (Level V) in one of NATO's official languages (English or French) and intermediate proficiency (Level III) in the other. This language requirement is crucial for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The successful applicant will be offered a definite duration contract of three years, with the possibility of renewal for up to three additional years. The maximum period of service in this post is six years. The position is full-time and may require occasional travel and work outside normal office hours. NATO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all member nations and promoting equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities. The organization offers flexible working arrangements and emphasizes the importance of integrity and accountability in its operations.