National Finance and Administrative Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized technical agency of the United Nations, established to combat hunger and promote security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security globally. The FAO's mission is to work towards the eradication of hunger and strive for food security for everyone, as outlined in the 2030 Agenda. The organization aims to transform agri-food systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. The FAO's ultimate goals include better production, better nutrition, better environment, and better lives, while ensuring that no one is left behind. The FAO Subregional Office for the Pacific Islands (SAP) provides policy, technical, program, and operational support to Pacific Island countries and territories, managing a diverse portfolio that includes Technical Cooperation Programme projects, Global Environment Facility and Green Climate Fund initiatives, and projects financed by various partners. The FAO maintains an office in Fiji and implements a growing portfolio of activities across the Pacific, focusing on agrifood systems, fisheries, forestry, climate resilience, natural resource management, food security, and nutrition.

Job Overview:
The National Finance and Administrative Specialist will be based in the FAO Fiji Office and is responsible for providing administrative and operational support to assigned projects and program activities. This role is crucial for ensuring that the financial and administrative aspects of projects are managed effectively and efficiently. The incumbent will work under the guidance of the FAO Subregional Coordinator for the Pacific Islands and will closely collaborate with various stakeholders, including Lead Technical Officers, project coordinators, and government partners. The position requires a strong focus on administrative and financial management, budget monitoring, and operational capacity development, ensuring that all project activities are executed in accordance with FAO procedures and standards. The specialist will play a key role in maintaining accurate financial records, preparing financial reports, and supporting the overall financial health of the projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Finance and Administrative Specialist will perform a variety of tasks, including serving as the focal point for administrative and financial support of assigned project activities, ensuring timely processing of day-to-day actions. Responsibilities include supporting the preparation and regular updating of project work plans, budgets, delivery forecasts, and operational schedules, while monitoring implementation against approved allocations and timelines. The specialist will maintain accurate financial records and supporting documentation for all project transactions, review transaction listings and budget status reports, and identify any errors or unusual charges. They will also support the preparation of project budgets, cash-flow forecasts, and periodic financial reports, as well as prepare complete payment packages for eligible project expenses. Additionally, the specialist will monitor cash advances, maintain settlement schedules, and support monthly financial closure processes, ensuring compliance with FAO requirements. The role also involves maintaining organized electronic and hard-copy files for project documents and providing administrative support for duty exemptions related to procured goods. The specialist will coordinate local travel administration processes and maintain inventories of office supplies and administrative equipment, ensuring proper custody and use of office assets.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in fields such as Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Public Administration, Economics, Management, or a related area. A minimum of three years of relevant experience in finance, accounting, administration, or project operations support is required. Demonstrated experience in budget monitoring, financial reporting, and maintaining financial records is essential. Knowledge of FAO rules, procedures, and systems would be considered an asset. Candidates must also be nationals of Fiji and possess a working knowledge of English, with knowledge of a local Fiji language being advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree from an accredited institution in relevant fields such as Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Public Administration, Economics, Management, or a related discipline. It is important that the degree is recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU) or UNESCO, ensuring that the educational qualifications meet international standards.

Experience:
The position requires at least three years of relevant experience in finance, accounting, administration, or project operations support. Candidates should have a proven track record in budget monitoring, financial reporting, and maintaining financial records, demonstrating their ability to manage financial aspects of projects effectively. Experience working within the framework of international organizations or understanding of FAO procedures would be beneficial.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of a local Fiji language would be considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of project implementation.

Additional Notes:
FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. It is important to note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED). The appointment will be subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. For additional employment opportunities, candidates can visit the FAO employment website.