NATO Budget Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The NATO Science & Technology Organization (STO) is dedicated to enhancing the defense and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security posture of NATO and Partner Nations through strategic investments in science and technology. Established to provide executive and administrative support to the NATO Chief Scientist, the organization plays a crucial role in coordinating scientific efforts across NATO. The STO operates in multiple countries, leveraging a diverse workforce to achieve its mission of fostering innovation and collaboration in defense-related research and development.

Job Overview:
The NATO Budget Officer position is integral to the financial management of the Office of the Chief Scientist (OCS). The incumbent will be responsible for overseeing the financial planning, budgeting, and evaluation cycles, ensuring compliance with NATO Financial Regulations and related procedures. This role requires a proactive approach to managing the OCS budget, including drafting budget plans, monitoring expenditures, and producing financial reports. The Budget Officer will also serve as the Programme Coordinator for programmatic funds, translating the OCS program of work into actionable budget plans and ensuring effective financial oversight. The position demands strong organizational skills, the ability to work under pressure, and excellent communication abilities, as the incumbent will interact with various stakeholders within NATO and the broader scientific community.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Budget Officer's duties include effective oversight of financial planning and budgeting cycles, ensuring timely submission of budget plans, monitoring operational execution, and proposing budget reprioritization when necessary. Responsibilities also encompass producing periodic and ad-hoc budget execution reports, managing budgetary aspects for temporary hires, and overseeing expenditures related to travel, hospitality, and consultancy credits. The incumbent will prepare correspondence and reports on financial management matters, provide guidance on budgetary procedures, and maintain communication with relevant parties within the OCS and STO. Additionally, the Budget Officer will represent the Chief Scientist in various committee meetings and undertake special projects as directed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least 5 years of relevant experience in budgeting, financial management, accounting, or auditing. A strong background in financial management within public or private sectors is essential, along with expertise in financial grant management for scientific or technology programs. Proficiency in financial management tools, particularly ERP systems like Oracle, is required. The ideal candidate should demonstrate excellent organizational, multi-tasking, and time-management skills, along with strong communication, drafting, and presentation abilities.

Educational Background:
A university degree in accounting, finance, economics, business administration, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for effective financial management and budgeting within the NATO framework.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in budgeting and financial management. Candidates should have a proven track record in managing financial resources, preparing comprehensive financial statements, and navigating the complexities of international financial regulations and standards.

Languages:
A very good knowledge of one of NATO's official languages, English or French, is mandatory, with a good knowledge of the other language being desirable. The work environment primarily operates in English, necessitating strong communication skills in this language.

Additional Notes:
The successful applicant will be offered a definite duration contract of three years, with the possibility of renewal for an additional three years. The maximum period of service in this post is six years. The position may require irregular working hours and frequent travel abroad. NATO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all member nations and promoting equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities. The organization offers flexible working arrangements and emphasizes a non-smoking environment at its headquarters.