Finance Specialist - Financial Statements and Board of Auditors relations

Job Posting Organization:
UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services) is an operational arm of the United Nations, established to help implement projects and programs in various sectors, including infrastructure, procurement, and financial management. The organization aims to provide efficient and effective project management services to its partners, ensuring transparency and accountability in resource management. UNOPS operates in multiple countries around the world, employing a diverse workforce committed to achieving sustainable development goals. The organization emphasizes the importance of financial stewardship and operational excellence in its mission.

Job Overview:
The Finance Specialist plays a crucial role in the Finance Group, which serves as a strategic partner and fiduciary advisor within UNOPS. This position is responsible for ensuring the accuracy and thoroughness of financial reporting, which is essential for the preparation of financial statements. The Finance Specialist will analyze financial rules and regulations, particularly the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS), and provide solutions to complex financial issues. This role requires a client-oriented approach and the ability to supervise support personnel while adhering to UNOPS rules and regulations. The Finance Specialist will also be involved in the automation of financial processes and the enhancement of system controls, contributing to the overall efficiency of financial resource management.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• General Corporate Accounting: Regularly review and monitor financial transactions in the General Ledger for accuracy and appropriate accounting treatment according to UNOPS Financial Rules and Regulations. Coordinate monthly and quarterly closure of General Ledger modules and prepare management reports on reconciliations and key issues. Manage automation projects related to General Ledger modules and provide expert advice on accounting treatment according to IPSAS guidelines. Prepare analysis and feedback for internal and external stakeholders regarding accounting transactions. Plan and coordinate Year End Closure processes.
• Financial Oversight and Monitoring: Exercise control and oversight on General Ledger transactions, ensuring compliance with UNOPS Financial Rules and Regulations. Collaborate in risk management related to financial transactions and identify areas for improvement in processes. Validate GL and bank reconciliations regularly and suggest enhancements to strengthen financial reporting controls.
• Internal and External Audit Coordination: Prepare analysis and reports to support corporate financial statements and assist during audit processes. Monitor follow-up actions on audit recommendations and consolidate internal audit recommendations to develop improvement plans.
• Capacity Building/System Improvement: Implement plans for automation of financial processes and consolidate training needs of finance practitioners. Support process documentation and continuous improvements in the corporate document management system. Act as the focal point for the Financial Accounting module in the UNOPS ERP system and develop innovative solutions to optimize financial processes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Finance, Accounting, Financial Management, or a related field, along with 7 years of relevant experience. Alternatively, a Master’s Degree (or equivalent) in the same disciplines with 5 years of relevant experience is acceptable. Additionally, a professional certification in accounting (such as CA, CPA, ACCA, ACA, CIMA) or audit (CIA) is required. Candidates should have a thorough knowledge of IPSAS or IFRS and excellent computer skills for data presentation and reporting.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Financial Management, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree in any of these disciplines is preferred. Professional accounting certification is mandatory, ensuring candidates have the necessary qualifications to handle complex financial tasks and adhere to international standards.

Experience:
Candidates should have relevant experience defined as working within an international environment in financial reporting, audit, and accounting. Experience should include a thorough understanding of IPSAS or IFRS, as well as the ability to work collaboratively across teams and build strong relationships with stakeholders. Knowledge of ERP system developments and process improvements is considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, while proficiency in Spanish, French, Russian, Arabic, and Mandarin Chinese at an intermediate level is desirable. This multilingual capability is beneficial for communication within the diverse UNOPS environment and enhances collaboration with international partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified as mid-level (ICS 10) and is a staff position under the International Professional (IP) category. The contract type is Fixed-Term Appointment (FTA) and is ongoing or variable, subject to organizational requirements and availability of funds. The application deadline is set for midnight Copenhagen time (CET) on the closing date. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups. Background checks are conducted for all final candidates to ensure compliance with UNOPS standards.