Finance and Budget Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP operates in multiple countries and has a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. It was established in 1972 and has since grown to encompass a wide range of environmental issues, working with various stakeholders including governments, NGOs, and the private sector.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Budget Officer position is located within UNEP's Law Division, specifically in the OzonAction Branch. The incumbent will be responsible for overseeing financial management, budget administration, and compliance with established procedures. This role requires a strong understanding of financial principles and practices, as well as the ability to analyze and interpret data to support decision-making. The officer will work closely with finance staff, manage contributions and grants, and ensure that financial records are accurate and up-to-date. The position also involves liaising with auditors and providing support for budget submissions and financial reporting to intergovernmental bodies. The ideal candidate will have a proactive approach to financial management and a commitment to promoting sustainable development through effective resource allocation.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Financial Management: Provide corporate guidance to UNEP OzonAction finance staff, issue policies, and monitor compliance with established procedures. Oversee the processing of pledges and preparation of invoices for contributions, ensuring compliance with governing body decisions. Manage the recording of contributions and unidentified deposits, prepare financial reports, and monitor the financial life cycle of projects. Ensure accuracy of UNEP financial records and liaise with auditors. Review legal instruments related to donors and Implementing Partners agreements. Develop a corporate approach to UNEP's relationship with Implementing Partners.
• Certifying Officer functions: Review and analyze data for cost estimates and budget proposals, support managers in resource requirements for budget submissions, and assist in securing approval from relevant Governing Bodies.
• Budget administration: Issue allotments, monitor budget implementation, and ensure compliance with regulations. Prepare documentation for budget performance submissions and lead the annual Financial Progress Report process.
• General: Stay updated on relevant documents and guidelines, supervise subordinate staff, and analyze data to provide insights for decision-making. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of financial principles and practices, with the ability to conduct research and analysis independently. They should demonstrate professional competence and efficiency in meeting commitments and deadlines. The role requires a commitment to gender perspectives and the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. Candidates should also exhibit strong planning and organizational skills, with the ability to develop clear goals and adjust priorities as necessary. Teamwork is essential, as the officer will work collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in business administration, finance, accounting, or a related area is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in accounting, finance, budget, business administration, or a related area is required. Candidates should have experience in preparing and analyzing financial statements according to private or public sector accounting standards such as IFRS or IPSAS. Working experience with SAP or another ERP system is required, along with proficiency in data analysis and reporting using Microsoft Excel. Experience managing implementing partners and familiarity with audit processes is desirable, as is experience in an international organization such as the United Nations.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and proficiency in French is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for 9 months and may be subject to extension. If the selected candidate is a staff member from the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The position may be limited to candidates based at the duty station and may be restricted to internal candidates. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.