Finance & Budget Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Financial Reporting and Analytic Service, which is part of the Finance Division of the Office of Programme Planning, Finance and Budget (OPPFB) within the Department of Management Strategy, Policy and Compliance (DMSPC) of the United Nations. The organization is dedicated to ensuring the integrity and transparency of financial reporting and budgeting processes within the UN system. It operates globally, providing financial oversight and support to various UN programs and initiatives, ensuring compliance with international accounting standards such as IPSAS. The organization emphasizes the importance of gender balance and diversity in its workforce, actively encouraging applications from underrepresented groups.

Job Overview:
The Finance & Budget Officer plays a critical role in the preparation and management of financial statements and budgets within the UN framework. This position requires a deep understanding of IPSAS-compliant accounting practices and the ability to analyze complex financial data. The officer will be responsible for reviewing and finalizing program plans and budget proposals, ensuring that legislative mandates are accurately reflected in program budgets. The role involves providing substantive support to intergovernmental bodies during budget reviews and securing necessary approvals from the General Assembly. The officer will also manage budget administration, monitor expenditures, and ensure compliance with financial regulations. This position demands a proactive approach to financial management, including the preparation of detailed financial reports and the implementation of new accounting systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance & Budget Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Reviewing and finalizing program plans and budget proposals based on departmental submissions and intergovernmental recommendations.
• Ensuring legislative mandates are accurately translated into program budgets.
• Analyzing cost estimates and budget proposals from various departments and peacekeeping operations.
• Issuing allotments and monitoring budget implementation, recommending reallocations as necessary.
• Administering extra-budgetary resources and ensuring compliance with established policies.
• Preparing budget performance submissions and analyzing variances between approved budgets and actual expenditures.
• Managing a complete financial operation, including approving obligations and expenditures.
• Preparing financial statements for inclusion in UN Audited Financial Statements and responding to audit observations.
• Providing guidance and training to staff on budgetary and financial policies. 1
• Participating in inter-departmental meetings and drafting reports for management and intergovernmental bodies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, finance, accounting, or a related field. A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree if accompanied by two additional years of relevant work experience. Certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Accountant (CA), or equivalent is also required. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of accounting principles and practices, particularly in relation to IPSAS and IFRS standards.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in business administration, finance, accounting, or a related field. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in these fields may be considered if they have additional relevant work experience. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of financial management within the UN system and for effectively contributing to the preparation and analysis of financial statements and budgets.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in accounting, finance, budget, or business administration is required. Candidates should have experience applying private or public sector accounting standards, particularly IPSAS, and should be adept at preparing complex financial reports. Experience in analyzing audit observations and producing audit responses is desirable, as is experience in drafting user guidance and training documentation for accounting processes. This level of experience is crucial for effectively managing the financial operations of the UN and ensuring compliance with international standards.

Languages:
English is the mandatory working language for this position, with a required 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 but not mandatory for this role. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in English, as it is essential for drafting reports and engaging with various stakeholders within the UN system.

Additional Notes:
This position is financed by extra budgetary resources and is subject to the availability of funds and 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 environment, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The recruitment process adheres to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, with a focus on geographic diversity. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities upon request.