Financial Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The BICES Group Executive (BGX) is a NATO entity that serves as the executive body of the BICES Group (BG). Established to facilitate the sharing and exchange of intelligence and information among NATO nations, as well as with non-NATO nations and organizations, BGX operates under the leadership of the Director and is structured into several divisions including Intelligence and Enterprise Services, Programmes, Engineering and Maintenance, Operations and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-services" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Services, and the Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Cell. The organization is committed to enhancing collaboration and operational efficiency across its various divisions, ensuring that financial management and administrative functions are executed effectively.

Job Overview:
The Financial Assistant position is integral to the Financial Management Office (FMO) within the BGX, which is responsible for overseeing financial operations from planning to disbursement. The role involves supporting the Financial Officer in preparing budget estimates, executing and controlling the administrative budget, and ensuring compliance with financial controls. The incumbent will engage in various financial activities including cash management, procurement, and the preparation of financial statements. This position requires a proactive approach to financial management, with an emphasis on accuracy, efficiency, and adherence to international financial regulations. The Financial Assistant will also be expected to contribute to the continuous improvement of financial processes and tools within the office, ensuring that all financial transactions are recorded accurately and efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Financial Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of duties including: preparing regular budget execution reports, coordinating with procurement officers to ensure funds are available for purchasing goods and services, processing payment requests, and maintaining accurate financial records. The role also involves collecting and categorizing information for various financial tasks, maintaining structured filing systems, and ensuring document control. The incumbent will support the preparation of financial statements and assist in the annual audit process. Additionally, the Financial Assistant will work closely with project managers to manage funds related to BGX programmes, ensuring that all financial activities comply with NATO Financial Rules and Procedures. The position requires effective stakeholder management, liaising with national representatives and suppliers as necessary, and contributing to the overall efficiency of the Financial Management Office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a higher secondary education and at least three years of experience in fields such as economics, accounting, business administration, or finance. A solid understanding of financial rules and procedures applicable to international organizations is essential, along with experience in budget preparation and control within the public sector or international organizations. The ability to assist in the preparation of financial statements according to relevant accounting standards is also required. Practical experience in maintaining accounting records and familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning systems (ERPs) is necessary. Proficiency in English at Level V (Advanced) is mandatory, while knowledge of French at Level II (Elementary) is desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a higher secondary education, with a preference for candidates holding a degree or equivalent professional qualification in economics, accounting, business administration, finance, or a related discipline. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of financial management within an international context.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in financial management, particularly in roles that involve budget preparation, financial controls, and the handling of day-to-day finance transactions. Experience in an international or multinational environment is highly valued, as it provides insight into the unique challenges and regulations governing financial operations in such settings.

Languages:
Proficiency in English at an advanced level (Level V) is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary working language of NATO. Additionally, knowledge of French at an elementary level (Level II) is considered an advantage, enhancing communication within the multilingual environment of NATO.

Additional Notes:
The successful applicant will be offered a definite duration contract of three years, in accordance with NATO Civilian Personnel Regulations. This position is open only to nationals of NATO member countries, and applications must be submitted through the designated e-recruitment system. The recruitment process includes a requirement for security clearance and medical approval. NATO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all member nations and promoting equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities. The organization offers flexible working arrangements and emphasizes a non-smoking environment at its headquarters.