Finance Specialist (Supply Financing)

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs a large workforce dedicated to serving children and communities globally, fostering a culture of inclusivity and support.

Job Overview:
The Finance Specialist (Supply Financing) will be based at UNICEF Supply Division and will play a crucial role in implementing the Financing Partnerships and Solutions Strategy. This strategy aims to support governments in mobilizing domestic resources for purchasing essential supplies while addressing timing gaps in government or grant disbursements. The specialist will engage in resource mobilization efforts, particularly concerning the Vaccine Independence Initiative (VII) revolving fund, and will coordinate day-to-day supply financing operations. The role involves working closely with Ministries of Health and Finance, engaging with various stakeholders, and ensuring effective procurement efficiency. The Finance Specialist will also be responsible for analytical functions and supporting countries in budgetary processes and procurement forecasting, thereby contributing to the overall mission of UNICEF to provide essential supplies and services to children and families in need.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including coordinating supply financing operations, supporting resource mobilization efforts, and managing donor reporting for the Vaccine Independence Initiative. The specialist will conduct procurement services forecast exercises to ensure quality projections for resource planning. Key duties include: 1) Collaborating with country-level stakeholders to monitor budgetary processes and procurement forecasts; 2) Assisting Ministries of Health and Finance in accessing UNICEF’s VII revolving fund; 3) Engaging with Supply Division business units and external partners to facilitate effective coordination; 4) Performing analytical functions to support decision-making processes; 5) Contributing to the development of financing opportunities and partnerships to enhance supply financing activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree) in Financial Management, Economics, Accounting, Audit, Risk Management, Business Administration, International Development Finance, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible professional experience in public or private sectors at national and international levels is required, particularly in development finance, risk management, investment banking, public finance, health economics, accounting, or auditing. Experience working with country-level Ministries of Health and Finance, as well as familiarity with credit facilities and revolving funds, is essential. Proficiency in data processing systems for financial modeling and forecasting is also required.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master’s degree) in relevant fields such as Financial Management, Economics, Accounting, Audit, Risk Management, Business Administration, or International Development Finance. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of financial management and supply financing within the context of UNICEF's operations.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience, demonstrating progressively responsible roles in development finance, risk management, investment banking, or related fields. Experience at both national and international levels is preferred, particularly in contexts involving public finance and health economics. Familiarity with working alongside government ministries and understanding the dynamics of financing and procurement in health sectors is vital for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, fluency in French is desired, and knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) is considered an asset. Proficiency in these languages will enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders across UNICEF's global operations.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term role based in Copenhagen, Denmark. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates should be aware that UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and is committed to safeguarding the rights of children. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks and must comply with medical clearance and vaccination requirements as mandated by UNICEF.