Programme Management Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda. Established to promote the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. The organization is dedicated to delivering effective strategic guidance and high-impact action in support of the transition towards climate stability. UNEP operates in numerous countries around the world, working with Member States and partners to address climate change mitigation and adaptation, enhance implementation capacity, and promote sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Assistant will support the Climate Change Division/Climate Change Mitigation Unit in delivering essential services under the direct supervision of the Administrative Officer. This role involves project and fund management, general administration, and ensuring compliance with financial reporting requirements. The incumbent will assist in project design and development, implementation, evaluation, and closure, while also providing guidance to executing agencies on financial matters. The position requires a proactive approach to managing financial risks and ensuring that all project documentation is accurate and compliant with UNEP standards. The overall objective is to facilitate a just transition towards climate stability by supporting countries in their climate commitments and fostering transparency in reporting.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Management Assistant include verifying documents for accuracy and compliance, assisting in budget preparation, facilitating fund disbursement, providing guidance on financial reporting, tracking project internalizations, preparing fund documents, reviewing expenditure reports, processing cash advances, and notifying payees about payment statuses. The incumbent will also assist in project evaluation and closure by updating project databases, preparing financial information for reviews, and ensuring that all executing agencies adhere to the same reporting templates. General administrative support, maintaining project files, and drafting correspondence related to financial matters are also key responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, with a professional qualification in Business Administration, Accounting, or Finance-related subjects. Certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Accountant (CA), or equivalent is desirable. A minimum of seven years of progressive working experience in finance, budget, accounting, or a related area is required, which can be reduced to five years for candidates with a first-level university degree. Experience in grant management, donor reporting, financial data analysis, and familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems such as UMOJA is essential. Knowledge of UN financial rules and regulations and IPSAS accounting standards is also desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a high school diploma or equivalent, with a professional qualification in Business Administration, Accounting, or Finance-related subjects. A first-level university degree can reduce the required years of experience, making it essential for candidates to have a solid educational foundation in relevant fields.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of progressive working experience in finance, budget, accounting, or related areas. This experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of project management and financial reporting within the context of international organizations. Candidates with a first-level university degree may qualify with five years of relevant experience. Experience in grant management, donor reporting, and analyzing financial data is also necessary, along with proven experience working with ERP systems such as UMOJA.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French is considered an asset, but the primary requirement is strong English language skills to effectively communicate and report on financial matters.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and is expected to last for 12 months. There are no fees associated with the recruitment process, and the United Nations does not charge applicants at any stage of the recruitment process. The organization emphasizes that it does not require information regarding applicants' bank accounts.