Finance Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights, and population issues. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, working to ensure that every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, particularly in areas related to family planning, maternal health, gender-based violence, and demographic change. UNFPA's mission is to promote the right of every woman, man, and child to enjoy a life of health and equal opportunity, and it emphasizes the importance of human rights and ethical standards in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Finance Associate position at UNFPA Kenya Country Office is crucial for delivering high-quality financial services to both internal and external clients. This role requires a strong understanding of UNFPA's financial policies and procedures, as well as the ability to provide financial monitoring, analysis, and advice on expenditure trends. The Finance Associate will work closely with program and project staff to ensure compliance with financial regulations and to support the effective implementation of projects. The position demands a client-oriented approach, focusing on results and the application of policies to support the Country Office and UNFPA-supported projects. The Finance Associate will also play a key role in capacity building for staff regarding financial policies and procedures, ensuring that all financial transactions are processed accurately and timely, and that financial records are maintained properly.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Associate will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including advising and supporting staff on financial and administrative matters, ensuring effective financial recording and reporting systems, and processing financial transactions accurately and timely. Specific duties include examining and analyzing quarterly expenditures, providing capacity building to staff on financial policy application, reviewing Implementing Partner (IP) FACE submissions for compliance, reconciling IP reports with Country Office financial records, and tracking submission deadlines. The Finance Associate will also participate in financial monitoring and training of IPs, process travel requests, liaise with UNDP on finance-related matters, and maintain a proper filing system for finance documents. Additionally, the role involves reviewing accounting transactions for compliance, monitoring financial information integrity, managing petty cash and staff advances, preparing financial reports, and performing year-end accounts closure activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field. Additionally, seven years of relevant experience in finance, accounting, or business administration is required. Proficiency in computer usage and office software packages, particularly advanced knowledge of spreadsheet and database applications, is essential. Experience with international organizations, especially UN agencies, is considered an advantage. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field is mandatory for this position. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding financial principles, accounting practices, and business operations, which are critical for the effective performance of the Finance Associate's duties.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in finance, accounting, or business administration. This level of experience is essential to ensure that the Finance Associate can effectively manage financial transactions, provide accurate financial analysis, and support the financial operations of the Country Office and its projects. Experience in working with international organizations, particularly UN agencies, is highly desirable and will enhance the candidate's ability to navigate the complexities of UNFPA's financial environment.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Strong communication skills in English are essential for effective collaboration with colleagues, stakeholders, and partners. While English is the mandatory language, proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the regions in which UNFPA operates.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits as applicable. UNFPA is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment, encouraging applications from women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. The organization promotes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics. Selection and appointment may be subject to background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements.