Finance and Budget Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) serves as the UN headquarters in Africa and is the office of the Secretary-General. Established to support the implementation of various UN programs, UNON provides essential administrative, conference, and information services to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the UN Resident Coordination System (RCS), and the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-HABITAT), among others. The organization plays a crucial role in facilitating the operations of various UN offices in Kenya and has a significant presence in the region, contributing to global initiatives and sustainable development goals. UNON is committed to fostering international cooperation and addressing pressing global challenges through its diverse programs and services.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Budget Assistant position is integral to the financial operations within the UNON, specifically within the office of Budget and Financial Management Services (BFMS) and the Division of Administrative Services (DAS). The role involves supporting the preparation and management of budgets, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and providing analytical support to higher-level finance officers. The assistant will be expected to engage in various financial activities, including budget preparation, monitoring expenditures, and processing accounting transactions. This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to maintaining the integrity of financial data and processes. The Finance and Budget Assistant will work closely with program managers and other finance staff to ensure that financial operations align with organizational goals and standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance and Budget Assistant will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: acting as a Certifying Officer in the absence of program managers, supporting the review and preparation of medium-term plans, preparing supporting documents for budget proposals, assisting in the elaboration of resource requirements, monitoring expenditures against approved budgets, reviewing requisitions for goods and services, preparing budget performance submissions, and ensuring the integrity of financial databases. Additionally, the assistant will process complex accounting transactions, investigate discrepancies, conduct payroll analysis, audit financial transactions, and provide guidance and training to junior staff. The role also involves drafting correspondence related to financial matters and assisting with data collection and analysis for reporting purposes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, with supplemental courses or training in finance, administration, project management, or a related field being desirable. A recognized accountancy qualification such as CPA, ACCA, or CIPFA is also preferred. The role requires a strong understanding of financial rules and regulations, particularly within the UN context, and the ability to apply these in practice. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in financial data analysis, problem-solving, and effective communication skills, as well as a commitment to professional ethics and accountability.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is a high school diploma or equivalent. However, candidates with additional training or courses in finance, administration, or project management will be viewed favorably. A recognized accountancy qualification is also desirable, indicating a higher level of expertise in financial management and accounting principles.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of relevant experience in finance, budget, accounting, or a related area is required for this position. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher may qualify with five years of experience. Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems is essential, along with a minimum of three years focused on payroll activities or administering staff benefits. Familiarity with UN financial regulations and accounting principles is highly desirable, as is experience in financial statement analysis.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with proficiency in French being an asset. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing, as per the UN Language Framework standards. Knowledge of additional languages may enhance a candidate's profile but is not mandatory for this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may involve working in a dynamic and multicultural environment. The role is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and candidates should be prepared to engage with various stakeholders within the UN system. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from qualified individuals regardless of gender, nationality, or background. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with UN standards, and the successful candidate will have opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the organization.