Associate Extra-budgetary Contributions Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is an intergovernmental organization founded in 1975, with a mission to promote peace, stability, and democracy in Europe. The OSCE has 57 participating States and operates in various countries across Europe, Central Asia, and North America. The organization focuses on a comprehensive approach to security that includes politico-military, economic, environmental, and human aspects. The OSCE Secretariat, located in Vienna, provides operational and administrative support to field operations and other institutions, ensuring effective management of resources and programmatic activities.

Job Overview:
The Associate Extra-budgetary Contributions Officer is a pivotal role within the OSCE Secretariat, specifically in the Integrated Resource Management Unit. This position is designed for individuals who are seconded from their respective states and is classified at the P2 level in the UN common system. The officer will act as a financial analyst, responsible for reviewing and analyzing cost and program data, interpreting financial information, and preparing detailed reports. The role requires active support in pledge administration and integrated resource management processes, ensuring compliance with financial rules and regulations. The officer will collaborate closely with Programme and Project Managers to facilitate the development and submission of extra-budgetary financial reports to donors, ensuring that all financial activities align with OSCE policies. The position also involves implementing improvements in financial administration and resource management processes, utilizing new technologies and best practices to enhance efficiency.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Extra-budgetary Contributions Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: preparing recurring and ad-hoc extra-budgetary financial reports and analyses as requested by donors and senior management; providing support to Programme/Project Managers in developing and facilitating the submission of financial reports to various donors; administering extra-budgetary pledges from donors, ensuring proper allocation of funds to projects; guiding Programme/Project Managers through the pledge acceptance process in accordance with OSCE Financial Regulations; reviewing donor agreements and pledge letters, negotiating terms to mitigate risks; supporting the review of draft project proposals; advising on fulfilling donor requirements; developing and implementing procedures to enhance integrated resource management; facilitating end-year closure activities; and administering the Projects and Grants Accounting modules within Oracle. The officer will work closely with a small team, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the unit and ensuring that the OSCE's financial management practices are upheld.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in financial management, accounting, business administration, or a related field. Certification from a recognized international professional accountancy body is considered an asset. Applicants should have at least four years of professional experience in budgeting, accounting, or finance, preferably within an international governmental or commercial organization. Experience in reviewing extra-budgetary agreements and assessing risks in contracts is advantageous. A solid understanding of the European Union legal framework and contracting modalities is also beneficial. Candidates must demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills in English, and knowledge of another language from the OSCE region is desirable. Proficiency in computer applications, particularly Excel, and extensive experience with ERP systems such as Oracle or SAP are essential. Candidates should also exhibit gender awareness and sensitivity, with the ability to work effectively in a diverse team environment.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a first-level university degree, which is equivalent to a Bachelor's degree, in financial management, accounting, business administration, or a related field. This foundational education is critical for understanding the complexities of analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis and management within the context of international organizations. Additional certifications from recognized professional accountancy bodies would enhance a candidate's profile and are viewed favorably during the selection process.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of professional experience in budgeting, accounting, or finance. This experience can be reduced to two years if the candidate holds a relevant second-level university degree. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in international governmental or commercial organizations, with specific experience in managing financial resources and understanding the intricacies of extra-budgetary contributions. Familiarity with the OSCE's operational framework and financial regulations will be advantageous.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within the OSCE. Candidates should possess excellent oral and written communication skills in English. Additionally, knowledge of another language from the OSCE region is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's competitiveness for the position.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international secondment, and candidates must be nominated by their respective participating States. The contract is fixed-term and full-time, with a maximum service period of 10 years in this role. The OSCE emphasizes diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds. The organization adheres to high ethical standards and expects its officials to maintain impartiality and integrity in their roles. The OSCE does not charge any fees during the application process and requires medical clearance for appointments. Candidates are advised to apply well in advance of the deadline to ensure timely processing of their applications.