Chief, Accounts and Treasury Unit

Job Posting Organization:
The Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is a prominent international organization founded in 1975, with a mission to promote peace, stability, and democracy in Europe and beyond. The OSCE operates in 57 participating States, encompassing a diverse range of political, economic, and environmental issues. The organization is headquartered in Vienna, Austria, and employs a significant number of staff across various countries, focusing on security-related concerns such as arms control, human rights, and counter-terrorism. The OSCE Secretariat plays a crucial role in supporting the Chairpersonship and field operations, ensuring effective management of resources and compliance with financial regulations.

Job Overview:
The Chief, Accounts and Treasury Unit is a senior management position within the OSCE's Department of Management and Finance (DMF). This role involves overseeing the financial accounting functions of the organization, including the preparation of financial statements in accordance with International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS). The incumbent will manage accounts payable and receivable, treasury management, and ensure compliance with financial regulations. The Chief will also supervise the Accounts and Treasury Unit, driving innovation and process improvements while coordinating with various executive structures and departments to enhance financial compliance and efficiency. This position requires a strategic mindset, strong leadership skills, and the ability to foster collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief, Accounts and Treasury Unit will be responsible for a comprehensive range of duties, including: preparing and consolidating the OSCE's annual accounts and quarterly financial statements; supervising the maintenance of the General Ledger and ensuring the integrity of financial transactions; ensuring compliance with IPSAS and drafting accounting instructions; liaising with internal and external auditors; managing vendor invoice processing and ensuring proper internal controls; planning monthly cash requirements and managing short-term investments; collecting and analyzing information on money market developments; overseeing payment execution and bank account management; administering the scale of contributions from participating States; supervising the recording of income receipts; reconciling payments in ERP systems; reviewing banking arrangements; and performing other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in accounting, business administration, finance, or a related field. A minimum of nine years of experience in finance and accounting is required, with at least five years in a senior financial management role, preferably within the public sector or an international organization. A professional accounting certification from a recognized international body (e.g., CPA) is essential. Candidates should be computer literate, particularly in Microsoft Excel, and have extensive experience with ERP systems. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory, and knowledge of another OSCE region language is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate gender awareness and sensitivity, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams while maintaining impartiality.

Educational Background:
The position requires a first-level university degree in accounting, business administration, finance, or a related field. A second-level university degree (Master's) is preferred and may reduce the required years of experience. Candidates with relevant certifications and advanced degrees will be viewed favorably, as they indicate a higher level of expertise and commitment to the field.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of nine years of relevant experience in finance and accounting, with at least five years in a senior management position. Experience in the public sector or international organizations is highly desirable, as it provides familiarity with the unique financial regulations and compliance requirements of such entities. The role demands a proven track record of managing financial operations and leading teams effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills. Knowledge of another language from the OSCE region is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the organization's multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract at the senior management level (P4) and is full-time. The monthly remuneration is approximately EUR 9,400, with actual salary depending on post adjustment and family status. OSCE salaries are exempt from taxation in Austria, and social benefits include participation in the Cigna medical insurance scheme and the OSCE Provident Fund. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Appointments are subject to medical clearance, and the maximum period of service in this post is seven years. The OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.