Controller, Chief Financial Officer and Director

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), an organization established in 1950 with the mission to protect and support refugees and displaced persons worldwide. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to humanitarian efforts. The organization aims to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and it works to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees and stateless people.

Job Overview:
The Controller serves as the principal advisor to the High Commissioner and the Senior Executive Team on all financial management matters, including budget and resource allocation, accounting, financial reporting, and treasury operations. This role is pivotal in ensuring that UNHCR's financial and administrative resources are managed effectively to support operational delivery and organizational priorities. The Controller leads the Division of Resource Management (DRM) and is responsible for the strategic oversight of UNHCR's global financial management framework. This includes budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, and resource allocation, ensuring compliance with international standards and organizational policies. The Controller also champions modernization efforts through digital transformation and innovative service delivery models, aiming to enhance organizational resilience and decision-making capabilities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Controller's duties include advising the High Commissioner and Senior Executive Team on financial strategies, leading the development and implementation of UNHCR's financial management framework, overseeing global budgeting and resource allocation, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and managing treasury operations. The Controller is responsible for establishing effective financial risk management practices, directing the development of financial policies, and promoting a culture of efficiency and accountability within the organization. Additionally, the Controller represents UNHCR in external engagements with donors and stakeholders, manages human and technological resources, and leads risk assessments to proactively manage organizational risks.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess extensive leadership experience in financial and administrative management within large international organizations, with at least 10 years in an international capacity. Knowledge of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and/or International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) is essential, along with experience in statutory reporting and financial governance. Strong communication and stakeholder management skills are required, as well as a strategic understanding of technology-enabled business transformation. A professional qualification in accounting (CPA or CA) is desirable, along with experience in UN humanitarian or development assistance organizations.

Educational Background:
A minimum of an undergraduate degree in Finance, Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees such as a Master's or Doctorate are preferred and can substitute for years of experience. Relevant certifications in accounting or finance are also advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 18 years of relevant experience for the D2 level, with a significant portion of that experience in leadership roles within international organizations. Experience at the Headquarters level and in functional areas directly relevant to financial management is crucial. Demonstrated experience in leading organizational transformation and change management initiatives is highly desirable.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, and proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station (if not English) is also required. For national professional jobs, knowledge of the local language is beneficial. Candidates should have at least a B2 level proficiency in the required languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a Professional role with a target start date of August 1, 202

• The role is full-time and involves responsibilities that require a high degree of professional judgment and political awareness. The Controller will be expected to engage with various stakeholders, including senior leaders and external partners, and to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in all interactions. The position does not require a functional clearance.