The
Pacific Community (SPC) is the principal scientific and technical organisation in the Pacific region, supporting development since 1947. We are an international development organisation owned and governed by our 26 country and territory members. In pursuit of
sustainable development to benefit Pacific people, our organisation works across more than 20 sectors. We are known for our knowledge and innovation in such areas as fisheries science,
public health, geoscience, and conservation of plant genetic resources for food and
agriculture.
The
Land Resources Division (LRD) provides advice,
technical assistance, research and training support to Pacific Island countries and territories on all aspects of agriculture and forestry. This includes plant protection, conservation, plant genetic resources,
animal health and production, agroforestry, biosecurity and trade facilitation, and sustainable systems for agriculture, forestry and
land management. This work has two objectives: improved food and nutritional
security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and resilient communities. The division’s services are provided through seven technical/thematic teams: Animal Health and Production; Plant Health; Biosecurity and Trade Facilitation; Forest and Agriculture Diversification; Crop Production and Extension; Genetic Resources; and Forests and Trees.
The
Pacific Regional Integration Support (PRISE) Programme is a EUR 37m programme aimed to support greater economic integration among the small and scattered countries of the region, and between the Pacific Region and the global economy. The overall objective is to contribute to improving the economic and social benefits for 15 Pacific countries from the African, Caribbean, Pacific Group of States arising from stronger regional economic integration. SPC is taking the lead in implementing 2 key outputs with an allocation of EUR 12m: Output 1.2 Sanitary and Phytosanitary services are improved; and Output 2.3: Strengthened competitiveness of sustainable agricultural value-chains in the Pacific. PRISE Outputs 1.2 and 2.3 with the title
‘Safe Agricultural trade Facilitation through Economic integration in the Pacific’ (SAFE Pacific) project will be managed and implemented by SPC in all 15 Pacific Africa Caribbean and Pacific countries.
The
Finance and Administration Officer will provide support to the SAFE Pacific Project with budget preparation, execution, financial monitoring, audit compliance and efficient administration through the Division’s central Finance and Administration
support services.
The key responsibilities of the role include:
- Budget preparation, monitoring and financial reporting
- Project accounting, audit and compliance
- Project and overall program administrative support
For a more detailed account of the key responsibilities, please refer to the job description provided.
Key selection criteria
Qualifications
- Undergraduate degree in accounting, finance and or business administration
Knowledge and experience
- At least 6 years of experience in a similar role
- Experience working with project leaders and partners at a strategic level
- Demonstrated experience in project budgeting, financial reporting, administration
- Demonstrated audit experience and knowledge of financial compliance requirements
Essential skills
- Good understanding of programs/projects
- Experience with use of financial management information systems (SPC uses Microsoft Navision)
- Sound coordination, administrative, networking and negotiation skills
- Advanced computer skills in applications such as Microsoft Word and Excel
Language skills
- Excellent English communication skills (oral and written) with a working knowledge of French being an advantage
Interpersonal skills and cultural awareness
- Ability to work in a multicultural, inclusive and equitable environment
Salary, terms and conditions
Contract Duration – Until 31 December 2024
Due to the current travel restrictions caused by the global
COVID-19 pandemic, and the priority SPC places on its staff safety, health and well-being, please note that there may be delays in taking up the appointment. These matters will be discussed thoroughly with successful candidates. In most cases, any appointment and on-boarding would only commence when relocation to the duty station is permitted.
Remuneration – The
Finance and Administration Officer is a Band 8 position in SPC’s 2021 salary scale, with a starting salary range of 1,994‒2,493 SDR (special drawing rights) per month, which currently converts to approximately FJD 6,022–7,528 (USD 2,772–3,465; EUR 2,446–3,058). An offer of appointment for an initial contract will normally be made in the lower half of this range, with due consideration given to experience and qualifications. Progression within the salary scale will be based on annual performance reviews. Remuneration of expatriate SPC staff members is not subject to income tax in Fiji; Fiji nationals employed by SPC in Fiji will be subject to income tax.
Benefits for international employees based in Fiji – SPC provides a housing allowance of FJD 1,350–3,000 per month. Establishment and repatriation grant, removal expenses, airfares, home leave travel, health and life insurance are available for eligible employees only. Employees are entitled to 25 working days of annual leave per annum and other types of leave, and access to SPC’s Provident Fund (contributing 8% of salary, to which SPC adds a matching contribution).
Languages – SPC’s working languages are English and French.
Recruitment principles - SPC’s recruitment is based on merit and fairness, and candidates are competing in a selection process that is fair, transparent and non-discriminatory. SPC is an
equal-opportunity employer, and is committed to cultural and gender diversity, including bilingualism, and will seek to attract and appoint candidates who respect these values. Due attention is given to gender equity and the maintenance of strong representation from Pacific Island professionals. If two interviewed candidates are ranked equal by the selection panel, preference will be given to the
Pacific Islander.
Applicants will be assured of complete confidentiality in line with SPC’s Privacy Policy.
