Finance and Budget Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Capacity Development Programme Management Office (CDPMO) of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) of the United Nations. DESA was established to promote social and economic development globally and works to support the capacity development of member states. The office provides comprehensive financial and administrative support for various programs and projects, including the Regular Programme of Technical Cooperation and the Development Account. CDPMO also supports the Junior Professional Officers Programme of the UN Secretariat. The organization is committed to achieving gender equality and diversity within its workforce, emphasizing the importance of equal participation of women and men in all aspects of work.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Budget Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the financial and administrative functions of the CDPMO. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Finance and Budget Officer and will be responsible for preparing supporting documents related to budget proposals, assisting managers in resource requirement elaboration, and conducting research to support budget reviews. The role requires monitoring expenditures against approved budgets, preparing adjustments, and ensuring compliance with UN policies and procedures. The assistant will also draft correspondence related to financial matters, maintain up-to-date files, and may provide guidance and training to other staff. This position is essential for ensuring the effective management of financial resources within the organization, contributing to the overall success of DESA's capacity development initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: preparing supporting documents for budget proposals, assisting in the elaboration of resource requirements, conducting research for budget reviews, monitoring expenditures, preparing adjustments, reviewing and processing special service agreements and travel requests, assisting in the preparation of budget performance submissions, verifying accuracy of input data, coordinating with finance and budget staff, keeping up-to-date on relevant documents and guidelines, drafting correspondence for financial inquiries, maintaining organized files, and providing guidance and training to general service staff. The role may also involve performing other related duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of financial rules and regulations, particularly within the UN environment. They should demonstrate professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to gender equality. The ability to plan and organize effectively, prioritize tasks, and allocate resources appropriately is essential. Candidates should also have a client-oriented approach, ensuring that the needs of those served are met and that productive partnerships are established. The role requires a high level of integrity and adherence to the highest standards of efficiency and competence.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. While specific job-related qualifications are not detailed, candidates should have a solid foundation in finance and budget management principles.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of experience in finance, budget, accounting, or administrative services is required. Candidates should have experience in grants management and financial management modules using an Enterprise Resources Planning System, such as SAP. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including data analysis and reconciliation, is essential. Experience with extra-budgetary resources and preparation of financial statements is desirable, as is experience in reviewing travel requests and using Business Intelligence and data analytics reporting tools.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the UN, but English is the primary requirement for this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is funded through Extra-Budgetary resources and is subject to local recruitment. The appointment is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of renewal based on the availability of the post or funds. Applicants must be authorized to work for the United Nations in New York, and those selected from outside the duty station will be responsible for their relocation expenses. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process adheres to strict standards of integrity and efficiency, and candidates with a history of violations of law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law or misconduct will not be considered.