Financial Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE), which is a key NATO command responsible for the strategic direction of Allied operations. Established to provide an integrated Strategic Effects framework, SHAPE employs a multi-domain and multi-region focus to create a comprehensive approach to military operations. The organization supports the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) in fulfilling his terms of reference as directed by the North Atlantic Council. SHAPE operates with a significant number of employees and has a presence in multiple countries, reflecting its multinational nature and commitment to collective defense.

Job Overview:
The Financial Assistant position is situated within the ACO Corporate Accounting and Control Branch, which performs essential financial controller functions for the Allied Command Operations (ACO) Headquarters. The role involves providing administrative, accounting, and financial expertise to ensure the accurate execution, recording, monitoring, and reporting of financial transactions in compliance with NATO Financial Regulations (NFRs), Financial Rules and Procedures (FRPs), and International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS). The incumbent will support month-end and year-end closing activities, contribute to the preparation of consolidated annual financial statements, and assist in audit documentation. This position requires effective communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to enhance financial processes and systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Financial Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including assisting with month-end and year-end closing activities, ensuring compliance with accounting transactions for all financial modules of the ERP system, reconciling ledger balances, investigating discrepancies, and recommending corrective actions. The role also involves providing guidance on financial procedures to the ACO finance community, contributing to the preparation of consolidated annual financial statements, and supporting audit documentation. Additionally, the incumbent will assist in the implementation and testing of new accounting control procedures, perform analysis and follow-up on reconciliation processes with other NATO entities, and develop customized reports for the ACO community in the ACO Financial System (Oracle EBS). Participation in process improvement initiatives and the implementation of financial system changes is also expected, along with liaising with internal and external stakeholders involved in financial system improvement efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least 2 years of professional experience in accounting and financial activities, including control of accounts and preparation of financial reporting at a corporate level. A minimum of 2 years of progressively responsible experience in financially related fields, such as budget or accounting/financial reporting, is required. Additionally, candidates should have at least 3 years of broad practical experience as a user and analyst of financial ERP modules within the NATO environment. Familiarity with NATO financial rules and regulations, as well as experience in performing comprehensive analysis on the impact of new standards and policies, is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include higher secondary education and intermediate vocational training in accounting, finance, management, business administration, public administration, economics, or a related discipline that may lead to a formal qualification with 3 years of experience. Alternatively, candidates with secondary education and completed advanced vocational training in the relevant discipline leading to a professional qualification or accreditation, along with 4 years of post-related experience, will also be considered. The specific job-related qualifications and experience take precedence over standard education and training levels in case of ambiguity.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of professional experience in accounting and financial activities, with a focus on the control of accounts and preparation of financial reporting at a corporate level. Candidates should also have a minimum of 2 years of progressively responsible experience in financially related fields, including budget or accounting/financial reporting. Furthermore, at least 3 years of broad practical experience as a user and analyst of financial ERP modules within the NATO environment is essential.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is English, with a proficiency level of SLP 3322 (Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing). Desirable qualifications include a higher proficiency level of SLP 3333 in English, which would be beneficial for candidates with experience as a Principal Analyst or administrator at the corporate level in NATO or other multinational organizations.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for newly recruited staff will typically be three years, followed by an indefinite duration contract. The salary will be based on the NATO Grade of the post, with potential allowances based on the selected staff member's eligibility. It is important to note that NATO is committed to diversity and inclusion, providing equal access to employment regardless of gender, age, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, cultural background, sexual orientation, or disability. Additionally, applicants who prove to be competent for the post but are not successful in this competition may be offered an appointment in another similar post that may become vacant in the near future. The application process requires submission through the NATO Talent Acquisition Platform, and applications submitted by other means will not be accepted.