Senior Finance and Budget Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Department of Management Strategy, Policy and Compliance (DMSPC) is a key entity within the United Nations that focuses on providing policy leadership across all management areas. Established to enhance the effectiveness of the UN's operations, DMSPC aims to create a clear, integrated global management strategy and policy framework. The organization emphasizes strengthened monitoring, evaluation, and accountability mechanisms to ensure that the UN's resources are managed efficiently and effectively. The Office of Programme Planning, Finance and Budget (OPPFB) plays a crucial role in securing the financing of the UN's expenses and ensuring sound financial management and reporting. The Financial Reporting and Analytics Service is responsible for preparing IPSAS-compliant financial statements for all funding sources, ensuring sustainability in accounting and reporting. The UN operates in numerous countries worldwide, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to various missions and functions.

Job Overview:
The Senior Finance and Budget Assistant is a pivotal role within the UN, primarily responsible for overseeing budgetary and financial operations. This position requires a deep understanding of financial regulations and procedures within the UN environment. The assistant will act as a Certifying Officer in the absence of program managers, ensuring compliance with legislative mandates and program plans. The role involves extensive analysis and preparation of budget proposals, monitoring budget implementation, and providing support to higher-level finance officers. The assistant will also be involved in the preparation of financial statements, audits, and the reconciliation of various financial transactions. This position demands a high level of professionalism, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with other finance and budget staff to ensure accurate reporting and compliance with UN policies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Finance and Budget Assistant will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: acting as Certifying Officers for budgetary matters, reviewing and analyzing program plans and budget proposals, assisting in the preparation of allotments and appropriations, monitoring budget expenditures, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. The assistant will also be responsible for auditing accounting transactions, preparing financial statements, and providing guidance and training to other staff members. Additionally, the role includes drafting correspondence related to financial matters, keeping up to date with financial regulations, and performing other related duties as assigned. The assistant will need to coordinate with other finance staff and ensure the integrity of financial databases, making recommendations for reallocating funds as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. A minimum of ten years of experience in finance, budget, accounting, or administrative services is required. For candidates with a first-level university degree or higher, the minimum experience requirement is reduced to eight years. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including the use of formulas, is essential. Experience with ERP systems and overseeing financial operations for large entities is also required. Familiarity with auditing processes is desirable, as is the ability to analyze complex financial data and provide recommendations based on findings.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a high school diploma or equivalent. However, candidates with a first-level university degree or higher will have a reduced experience requirement, indicating that higher education is valued and may enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of relevant experience in finance, budget, accounting, or related areas. This experience should include overseeing financial operations in both headquarters and field environments. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher may qualify with eight years of experience. Familiarity with ERP systems and experience working with auditors are also important aspects of the required experience.

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 recognized as a working language of the United Nations, but proficiency in French is not mandatory for this position. Candidates should refer to the UN Language Framework for specific language skill requirements.

Additional Notes:
The position is financed by the Support Account for Peacekeeping Operations and the Regular Budget, with an initial appointment period of one year. The appointment is subject to the availability of the post or funds and budgetary approval. This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that applicants must be authorized to work for the United Nations in New York. Those selected from outside the duty station will be responsible for their relocation expenses. Local recruits are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusive to international recruits. The UN emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and is committed to creating a respectful work environment.