Finance Officer- Payroll and Staff Payment

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to ensure that effective humanitarian assistance reaches millions of people across the globe. WFP is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization has received numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, recognizing its efforts to combat hunger and promote peace.

Job Overview:
The Finance Officer for Payroll and Staff Payment will play a crucial role in the finance operations of the WFP Yemen Country Office, which has been centralized in Aden due to the ongoing conflict in the region. This position involves managing payroll and related payments, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and providing support services that facilitate efficient financial operations. The Finance Officer will be responsible for overseeing the accuracy and timeliness of financial transactions related to staff payments, including salaries, entitlements, and sensitive transactions. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure that financial processes align with WFP's mission of achieving Zero Hunger and supporting vulnerable populations. The Finance Officer will also contribute to financial controls and risk assessments, providing insights into WFP's performance and ensuring that financial operations are effective and efficient.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Officer will be responsible for a variety of key accountabilities, including: coordinating finance, budget, and administration support services; managing payroll and related payments; ensuring compliance and accuracy of staff-related financial transactions; overseeing financial closure and reconciliation processes; reporting on financial status and project outcomes; tracking and collating data to improve financial policies and procedures; guiding and supervising junior staff; representing the finance unit in internal and external meetings; and filling capacity gaps in finance functions. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying financial risks and implementing solutions to enhance operational efficiency.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. An advanced university degree in Finance, Business Administration, or Accounting is preferred. Additionally, candidates should have membership in a recognized professional accountancy body, such as ACCA or CIA. The role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to WFP's values and mission, with a focus on integrity, collaboration, and inclusion.

Educational Background:
A university degree in Accounting, Finance, or a relevant field is required. An advanced degree in Finance, Business Administration, or Accounting is highly desirable. Candidates with a first university degree in the same subjects, combined with additional years of relevant work experience, may also be considered. Membership in an internationally recognized professional accountancy body is a significant advantage.

Experience:
Candidates should have a total of at least 5 years of relevant experience, including a minimum of 1 year of professional experience in finance or project management within a humanitarian or development context. Experience working with the United Nations or similar organizations is preferred, as is familiarity with financial operations in complex environments. The ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced setting is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in Arabic is highly desirable. Candidates should possess strong communication skills in both languages to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders and facilitate financial operations.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a contract duration of 12 months. The Finance Officer will work under the supervision of the Head of Finance and will be expected to contribute to the overall financial management of the WFP Yemen Country Office. The role may involve occasional travel within the region, depending on operational needs. WFP offers an attractive compensation package, including benefits and opportunities for professional development. The organization is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.