Budget Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With a workforce of over 7,000 employees, WHO operates in more than 150 countries, working towards achieving health equity and improving health outcomes globally. The organization focuses on various health issues, including communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, health systems, and emergency response.

Job Overview:
The Budget Assistant position is integral to the Country Management Support Units (CSU) within WHO, which are designed to support managers and staff in fulfilling their responsibilities in the Global Management System (GSM) and Business Management System (BMS) environments. The role involves assisting in the planning, compilation, and preparation of the Biennial Work Plan (BWP), ensuring that all financial transactions comply with established rules and regulations. The incumbent will provide budgetary clearance for project proposals and correspondence, guiding staff on the correct application of financial rules and regulations. This position requires a proactive approach to financial management, including the preparation and analysis of financial reports for management use, and ensuring timely reconciliation of financial transactions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Budget Assistant will perform a variety of duties, including but not limited to: assisting in the planning and preparation of the Biennial Work Plan (BWP); ensuring compliance with financial regulations for all funded transactions; reviewing and providing budgetary clearance for project proposals; advising on financial documents and recommending remedial actions; guiding country office staff on financial rules; reviewing payment vouchers and issuing payment instructions; analyzing cases requiring supervisory decisions; preparing and evaluating financial reports; coordinating the recording of financial transactions; ensuring timely reconciliation of accounts; and performing other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a completion of Secondary School education as a minimum requirement. A university degree in Finance, Management, Public Administration, or a related field is desirable. Additionally, a postgraduate diploma or professional certification in project management or a related field is preferred. Candidates should have a strong understanding of WHO's financial regulations and procedures, as well as experience in budget and financial monitoring.

Educational Background:
The essential educational background for this position includes the completion of Secondary School. A university degree in Finance, Management, Public Administration, or a related field is desirable, along with a postgraduate diploma or professional certification in project management or a related field. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of financial management within the WHO framework.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 10 years of relevant experience, particularly in program management and/or budget and financial monitoring. Experience within the UN System or in a public health context is highly desirable. Familiarity with WHO program management and end-to-end business processes, as well as knowledge of GSM/BMS systems or similar ERP systems, is also beneficial.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. While not mandatory, proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in languages relevant to the regions served by WHO.

Additional Notes:
The position offers an attractive remuneration package, including an annual net base salary starting at ZAR 616,958, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Staff members are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. The position is subject to local recruitment, meaning it will be filled by candidates from the local commuting area of the duty station. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. Candidates may be required to provide proof of vaccination as per WHO's health policies. The organization also emphasizes a smoke-free environment and has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse.