Financial Controller

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is NATO Allied Command Transformation (ACT), which plays a crucial role in preserving peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and territorial integrity among NATO member states. Established to enhance NATO's military posture, structures, and capabilities, ACT operates at a strategic command level. The organization is dedicated to Warfare Development and provides essential support and coordination to various NATO commands. The Command Group, which includes the Chief of Staff (COS), is responsible for executing ACT's mission and implementing the Commander’s directives. The Staff Advisory Group (SAG) consists of various competencies, including financial management, legal advice, and communication, all aimed at supporting the Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (SACT).

Job Overview:
The Financial Controller position is integral to NATO ACT, serving as the principal financial advisor to the Supreme Allied Commander Transformation. This role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including ensuring adherence to sound financial management principles, managing appropriated and non-appropriated funds, and overseeing the financial internal control system in compliance with NATO financial regulations. The Financial Controller is tasked with directing the Budget & Finance Office and is responsible for the financial management operations across all ACT entities, including headquarters and subordinate commands. The position requires a strategic mindset to navigate complex financial landscapes and provide sound advice on budgetary matters, ensuring that all financial activities align with NATO's objectives and regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Financial Controller will perform a variety of critical duties, including acting as the principal financial advisor to SACT and subordinate commanders, ensuring proper use of appropriated funds in accordance with NATO Financial Regulations. Responsibilities include representing SACT in budgetary committees, overseeing financial management operations across ACT, directing the activities of the ACT Office of BUDFIN, and maintaining oversight of financial planning and evaluation cycles. The Financial Controller will develop financial policies, administer automated financial systems, and ensure compliance with international accounting standards. Additionally, the role involves supervising procurement activities, maintaining accounting data, and providing binding advice on financial policy matters. The incumbent will also have the authority to negotiate contracts and approve funding transfers between budgets, ensuring accountability for all international funds allocated to ACT.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in finance, accounting, business administration, economics, public administration, or a related discipline, along with a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience. A total of at least 15 years of experience in budgeting, accounting, or financial management is required, with a minimum of 5 years in higher managerial positions. Knowledge of international accounting and auditing standards, public accounting, banking, and funds management is essential. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to effectively represent and defend budget submissions and possess excellent presentation skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in finance, accounting, business administration, economics, public administration, or a related field. This foundational education is critical for understanding complex financial systems and regulations, which are essential for the effective execution of the Financial Controller's responsibilities.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience, specifically at least 15 years in budgeting, accounting, or financial management. Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years in higher managerial roles that align with the responsibilities of the Financial Controller. This experience should include a strong background in international financial practices and standards, as well as demonstrated success in managing financial operations within complex organizations.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a required language skill level of SLP 4343 (Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing). Additionally, knowledge of French at SLP 2222 is desirable, as it may enhance communication within the multinational environment of NATO.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a three-year definite duration contract for newly recruited staff, while serving NATO International Civilian staff will be offered a contract in accordance with NATO Civilian Personnel Regulations. Candidates should be aware that the recruitment process requires thorough completion of pre-screening questions in English, and any applications that rely on generative AI tools will be rejected. NATO emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and encourages applications from all member nations, particularly from women. The successful applicant will need to obtain a NATO SECRET Security Clearance prior to employment.