Senior Finance and Budget Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is dedicated to delivering ideas and actions aimed at empowering and transforming Africa. Established to address the continent's unique challenges, ECA operates under the guidance of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 206

• The organization focuses on five strategic directions: enhancing its role as a premier knowledge institution, developing macroeconomic policies for economic diversification and job creation, implementing innovative financing models for infrastructure and social assets, addressing regional challenges with a focus on peace and social inclusion, and advocating for Africa's position in global governance. ECA is headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and employs a diverse workforce committed to the continent's development across various sectors.

Job Overview:
The Senior Finance and Budget Assistant plays a crucial role within the Facilities Management Section of the Administration & Conference Management Division at ECA. The incumbent is responsible for managing financial operations, including budget monitoring, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with UN financial regulations. This position requires a proactive approach to financial management, including the preparation of budget proposals, analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis, and the implementation of accounting procedures in line with IPSAS requirements. The role also involves advising units on financial activities, ensuring proper use of funds, and maintaining accurate financial records. The Senior Finance and Budget Assistant will work closely with various units to ensure that financial operations align with organizational goals and contribute to the effective management of resources.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Finance and Budget Assistant will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Handling allotment advice and monitoring approved budgets for all projects and activities within the section, including preparing budget and procurement plans, distributing budgets to units, and issuing monthly financial reports.
• Operating UMOJA for all approved requests, creating pre-encumbrances, obligation documents, and managing claims for consultants and contractors.
• Ensuring the correctness of procurement requests and maintaining relevant financial records.
• Preparing annual budget proposals by collecting data from units, consolidating proposals, and discussing drafts with relevant stakeholders.
• Following up on consultant and contractor contracts, preparing memos for recruitment and extensions, and managing claims for payments.
• Performing any other duties as assigned by the Chief of the Section, including acting as a certifying officer in the absence of the program manager.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of financial rules and regulations within the UN environment, with the ability to analyze and interpret financial data. Professionalism, teamwork, and effective planning and organizing skills are essential. The candidate should demonstrate a commitment to gender equality and the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues. The role requires a high level of integrity and efficiency in meeting commitments and achieving results.

Educational Background:
A High School Diploma or equivalent is required, along with a Certificate or Diploma in Accounting, Finance, or a directly related field. Proficiency in computer applications is highly desirable, as is a strong foundation in financial management principles.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least ten years of progressively responsible experience in finance, budget, accounting, or administrative services. This requirement is reduced to eight years for those with a first-level university degree or higher. Experience in data analytics or related areas is also desirable, along with proficiency in MS Word and Excel. Familiarity with UMOJA is an advantage.

Languages:
English is required at UN Level II for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is desirable at UN Level I for the same skills. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in these languages as per the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that candidates must be residents of Ethiopia or within commuting distance. Staff members are expected to adhere to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to various functions as needed. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce.