Finance Intern

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Finance Intern
Location: Accra
Country: Ghana
Deadline Date: February 2025

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories to promote the rights and well-being of every child. The organization is dedicated to reaching the most disadvantaged children in the world, ensuring their survival, development, and protection. UNICEF operates with a mission to advocate for children's rights, provide essential services, and support governments and communities in building a better future for children. In Ghana, UNICEF collaborates with the government and various partners to implement programs that align with national priorities and the UN Sustainable Development Partnership, focusing on key results for children in areas such as immunization, nutrition, education, and protection from violence and exploitation. The organization employs a diverse workforce and emphasizes the importance of inclusion and diversity in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Finance Intern position at UNICEF is designed for individuals who are currently enrolled in an undergraduate or advanced degree program, or who have recently completed their degree. The intern will work under the supervision of the Finance Officer and will be responsible for supporting the finance unit in various operational and programmatic financial service activities. This includes tasks such as signing bank transfers, scanning and filing documents, submitting bank transfers and letters to relevant authorities, and following up on outstanding invoices and payments. The intern will also maintain relevant databases, assist in archiving finance-related documents, and support the classification and updating of incoming and outgoing documents. This role provides an opportunity for the intern to gain practical experience in financial operations within a global organization, contributing to UNICEF's mission of advocating for children's rights and well-being.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Intern will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to: maintaining relevant databases by registering, scanning, and filing documents to be submitted to the Global Shared Services Centre (GSSC); supporting the archiving of finance-related documents; registering, classifying, and updating incoming and outgoing documents; assisting in dispatching outgoing correspondence; following up and tracking outstanding actions; generating reports in accordance with established timetables and procedures; collating VAT invoices and updating GRA Form B3 for processing by the Finance Associate; providing backup support during the short-term absence of the Finance Assistant; and performing any other duties as assigned by the Finance Officer. The intern will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the finance unit and will be expected to demonstrate attention to detail and organizational skills.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the Finance Intern position, candidates must provide proof of enrollment in an undergraduate or advanced degree program, or an up-to-date university transcript or statement of results/certificate evidencing completion of a degree within the last two years. Candidates should have an academic background in accounting and finance-related disciplines. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate strong report writing skills, as well as qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis abilities. Familiarity with geospatial software is considered an asset, and experience working in developing countries or in emergency contexts is also advantageous. Candidates should exhibit a commitment to UNICEF's core values and competencies, including care, respect, integrity, trust, accountability, and sustainability.

Educational Background:
Candidates applying for the Finance Intern position should have an academic background in accounting, finance, or a related discipline. This may include current students enrolled in undergraduate or advanced degree programs, as well as recent graduates who have completed their degree within the last two years. The educational qualifications should be supported by relevant documentation, such as a reference letter from the educational institution or an up-to-date university transcript.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have some level of experience, particularly in areas related to finance and administration. While specific years of experience are not mandated, familiarity with financial operations, data management, and report writing is essential. Experience in developing countries or emergency contexts is considered an asset, as it aligns with UNICEF's mission to support vulnerable populations. Interns are expected to demonstrate a willingness to learn and adapt to the dynamic environment of UNICEF's operations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for the Finance Intern position. Additionally, knowledge of another official UN language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset. Proficiency in a local language may also be beneficial, as it can enhance communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The Finance Intern position is a full-time internship opportunity, with a contract duration that aligns with the academic requirements of the candidate. UNICEF encourages applications from eligible and suitable female candidates, reflecting its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The organization offers a range of benefits to its staff, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks, and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates should be aware that UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations, including issues related to sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, and discrimination. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and may be required to provide additional information for these checks. The recruitment process will prioritize candidates who align with UNICEF's core values and competencies.