Finance and Accounting Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is a specialized agency of the United Nations aimed at promoting world peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. Established in 1945, UNESCO has a mission to contribute to the building of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development, and intercultural dialogue through education, the sciences, culture, communication, and information. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a diverse workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. UNESCO's core values include commitment to the organization, integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism, which guide its operations and interactions with member states and partners.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Accounting Consultant position is a critical role within the UNESCO Sudan office, specifically aimed at supporting the project 'Better Employability for Youth in Sudan through TVET.' This project, backed by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), focuses on enhancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to improve the employability of youth in Sudan. The consultant will be stationed at Port Sudan Technical School and will be responsible for ensuring accurate financial management and documentation of project-related activities. The role requires the consultant to develop the financial management capacities of the school, ensuring compliance with UNESCO and local financial standards, and maintaining reliable financial records that promote transparency and accountability. The consultant will work closely with school management and UNESCO staff to implement effective financial practices and reporting mechanisms, thereby contributing to the overall success of the project and the institution's financial health.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of duties, including but not limited to: maintaining accurate financial records of project-related expenditures, organizing and verifying supporting documentation, preparing financial summaries and expenditure statements, and ensuring compliance with financial standards. The consultant will also be responsible for establishing or improving accounting registers, developing financial templates, and providing guidance to school staff on financial record-keeping. Additionally, the consultant will monitor expenditures against approved budgets, identify discrepancies, and assist in preparing financial information for planned activities. Regular reporting to the UNESCO Project Officer will be required, including monthly financial reports and reconciliations. The consultant will also facilitate access to financial records for audits and ensure confidentiality in handling financial information.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a closely related field from a recognized institution. A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience in accounting, financial management, or bookkeeping is required. Demonstrated experience in maintaining financial records, preparing financial reports, and managing supporting documentation is essential. Candidates should have experience in budget monitoring, expenditure tracking, and financial reconciliation. Familiarity with establishing or improving accounting systems is advantageous, as is previous experience with international organizations, UN agencies, or donor-funded projects.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration. This educational background is crucial as it provides the foundational knowledge necessary for effective financial management and accounting practices, which are central to the responsibilities of the consultant role.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of relevant professional experience in accounting or financial management. This experience should include maintaining financial records, preparing reports, and managing documentation. Candidates should also have a proven track record in budget monitoring and expenditure tracking, as well as experience in financial reconciliation. Experience in improving accounting systems and working with international organizations or educational institutions will be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's suitability for the role.

Languages:
Fluency in Arabic is mandatory, with excellent written and spoken skills required. Proficiency in English is also necessary, with very good written and spoken abilities expected. These language skills are essential for effective communication within the organization and with stakeholders, ensuring that financial documentation and reports are accurately prepared and understood by all parties involved.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy contract is set for a duration of four months, with the possibility of extension based on project needs and performance. The position is classified at Level 2 - Middle, indicating a mid-level consultancy role. The consultant will be expected to work full-time on-site at Port Sudan Technical School, collaborating closely with school management and UNESCO staff. The role is open to external candidates, and the application process includes submitting a completed UNESCO Employment History Form and a cover letter. Candidates should be prepared for a selection process that may involve interviews and assessments.