Finance and Administrative Officer

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. With a workforce of over 2,000 employees, UNESCO operates in more than 190 countries, focusing on building peace in the minds of men and women through education, science, culture, and communication. The organization is committed to fostering sustainable development and promoting human rights, gender equality, and cultural diversity.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Administrative Officer position at UNESCO is pivotal in ensuring the efficient and compliant administration of financial and human resources within the International Bureau of Education (IBE). Reporting directly to the Director of IBE, the incumbent will play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of financial operations and human resource management in accordance with UNESCO's administrative and financial regulations. The officer will be responsible for facilitating effective communication between IBE and various central services, ensuring that all financial and administrative functions align with the organization's strategic objectives. This role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively while maintaining a high standard of professionalism and integrity.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance and Administrative Officer will lead the Administrative Unit, overseeing the planning, coordination, and prioritization of daily tasks to meet the objectives of IBE. Key responsibilities include:

• Supervising the execution of administrative and financial services, including budget preparation, contract management, financial accounting, and travel management.
• Coordinating human resources matters such as staffing actions, recruitment, and performance assessments to foster a positive work environment.
• Implementing security policies and ensuring compliance with the Host Country Agreement while maintaining relationships with local authorities.
• Managing fixed assets and ensuring their proper accounting and safeguarding.
• Contributing to key documents such as donor reports and IBE strategy proposals.
• Preparing and certifying financial reports in accordance with donor agreements and maintaining accurate financial statements for audits.
• Providing administrative support to the UNESCO Geneva Liaison Office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Finance or Accounting, or a Bachelor’s degree in the same fields with an additional two years of relevant professional experience. A completed, professionally recognized accounting qualification is also required. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of financial management principles and practices, as well as familiarity with international financial regulations and standards.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in Finance or Accounting. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree in these fields is acceptable if accompanied by two additional years of relevant professional experience. Candidates should also have completed a recognized accounting qualification, which is essential for the role.

Experience:
A minimum of four years of progressively responsible experience in management, finance, accounting, or administration is required, with at least two years of this experience gained at the international level. Candidates should have proven experience in financial management, internal control duties, and the development and implementation of financial management practices. Experience in preparing financial statements for audits and managing personnel functions is also necessary.

Languages:
Candidates must have excellent knowledge of English or French, both written and spoken, along with a working knowledge of the other language. Knowledge of additional UN languages such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish is considered desirable and advantageous for the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of two years, open to both internal and external candidates. The approximate annual starting salary for this position is USD 131,042, and benefits may include 30 days of annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. The selection process may involve pre-recorded video interviews, written assessments, and reference checks. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from under-represented groups, including individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities. Geographical mobility is required for staff members appointed to international posts, and candidates must provide scanned copies of their educational qualifications if shortlisted for an interview.