Associate Finance & Budget Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Contribution Section of the Office of Programme Planning, Finance and Budget (OPPFB), which is part of the Department of Management Strategy, Policy and Compliance (DMSPC) at the United Nations. The Contributions Section acts as the Secretariat to the Committee on Contributions, providing essential support to the Committee and the General Assembly in negotiating the scale of assessments. The organization is dedicated to ensuring the timely issuance of assessments and providing information on the status of assessed contributions, thereby playing a crucial role in the financial operations of the UN.

Job Overview:
The Associate Finance & Budget Officer is tasked with a variety of responsibilities that encompass the preparation, analysis, and administration of program plans and budgets. This role requires a thorough understanding of the legislative mandates that guide budget preparation and the ability to provide advice and support to intergovernmental bodies during their review processes. The officer will be involved in the preparation of cost estimates, budget proposals, and the monitoring of budget implementation to ensure compliance with established financial regulations. The position demands a proactive approach to identifying budgetary problems and implementing solutions, as well as the ability to analyze data to support decision-making processes. The officer will also be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records and ensuring that all transactions comply with UN policies and procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Associate Finance & Budget Officer include reviewing and finalizing program plans based on departmental submissions, providing advice to intergovernmental bodies, ensuring legislative mandates are accurately reflected in budgets, and assisting in the preparation of budget performance submissions. The officer will monitor budget implementation, recommend reallocations of funds, and ensure compliance with financial regulations. Responsibilities also include preparing cost plans, administering extra-budgetary resources, and providing substantive support to intergovernmental bodies. The officer will analyze financial data, prepare reports, and assist in the development of accounting policies. Additionally, the role involves keeping up-to-date with financial regulations and contributing to the collection and analysis of data for decision-making purposes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, finance, accounting, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in the specified fields, combined with two additional years of relevant work experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. The position requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure while meeting deadlines. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to professional ethics and integrity, as well as the ability to work collaboratively in a diverse environment.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, finance, accounting, or a related field is required for this position. A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) may be accepted if accompanied by two additional years of relevant work experience. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of financial management and budget preparation within the UN framework.

Experience:
A minimum of 2 years of progressively responsible experience in accounting, finance, administration, budget, or business administration is required. Candidates who have successfully passed the United Nations Young Professionals Programme Examination (YPP) or the G to P Examination (G to P) are exempt from the experience requirement. Experience in revenue-generating or income-producing activities is considered desirable, as it demonstrates the ability to manage financial resources effectively and contribute to the organization's financial sustainability.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and proficiency in French is considered an asset. Candidates should refer to the UN Language Framework for specific language skill requirements.

Additional Notes:
This position is financed by extrabudgetary funds, and the appointment is subject to the availability of the post or funds, as well as budgetary approval. The initial appointment is for a period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment, encouraging applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including women and underrepresented groups. The organization adheres to strict ethical standards and conducts thorough background checks on candidates to ensure compliance with its values and principles.