National Finance Officer

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Position Title: National Finance Officer
Location: Bangui
Country: Central African Republic
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is a key entity within the United Nations Secretariat, established to enhance the coordination of humanitarian responses in emergencies. OCHA's mission is to mobilize and coordinate effective humanitarian action in partnership with national and international actors, aiming to alleviate human suffering during disasters and emergencies. The organization also focuses on defending the rights of people in need, promoting disaster preparedness, and facilitating sustainable solutions. OCHA operates in various countries, including the Central African Republic, where the humanitarian situation is critical, with 63% of the population requiring assistance. OCHA's office in the Central African Republic is committed to strengthening its response capacities through the recruitment of a National Finance Officer.

Job Overview:
The National Finance Officer will be based in Bangui, with frequent field visits to project implementation sites. This role is integral to the Humanitarian Financing Team, which supports humanitarian partners, including UN agencies and NGOs, working with the Central African Republic Humanitarian Fund (CAR-HF) and the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). The officer will be responsible for reviewing budgets, budget amendments, grant agreements, and other relevant documents submitted by CAR-HF and CERF partners. Additionally, the officer will monitor project implementation through spot checks, periodic financial reporting, and audits, while also providing advice and training on budget preparation and financial reporting to implementing partners. This position is crucial for ensuring that humanitarian financing is managed effectively and transparently, contributing to the overall mission of OCHA in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Finance Officer will perform a variety of duties under the supervision of the Finance Officer (P3) of the Humanitarian Fund Management Unit. Key responsibilities include: 1) Conducting effective financial reviews of project and budget agreements, analyzing financial documentation from implementing partners, assisting with project budgets and grant agreements, and ensuring compliance with signed agreements through the analysis of audited financial reports. 2) Implementing financial management strategies, drafting financial analyses for donor reports, and developing awareness materials for partner sessions on HF-RAC procedures. 3) Providing efficient administrative services by documenting and filing all financial documents, keeping abreast of relevant guidelines, and performing other tasks necessary for the efficient functioning of the Finance subunit. The officer will also be involved in capacity assessments of partners and will ensure timely financial reporting in accordance with donor requirements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a higher university degree (Master) in fields such as Accounting, Finance, Economics, or Management. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. A minimum of two years of progressive professional experience in finance, accounting, administration, or related fields is required for candidates holding a bachelor's degree. Experience in project management, particularly in financial management and support for external audits, is essential. Proficiency in Office suite applications is required, and experience in a UN organization or NGO in finance is preferred. Knowledge of accounting systems, procurement, and grants management is desirable, along with proven skills in data collection and reporting.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a higher university degree (Master) in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Management, or a related field. Candidates with a first-level university degree in these fields may be considered if they have two additional years of relevant experience. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of financial management within humanitarian contexts.

Experience:
The position requires at least two years of progressive professional experience in finance and accounting, crisis program management, humanitarian affairs, or grant management for candidates with a bachelor's degree. No experience is required for candidates with a master's degree. Experience in project management, particularly related to financial management and external audits, is essential. Familiarity with the context of the Central African Republic and the ability to work under pressure in challenging environments is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in French and Sango is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in English, as another official language of the United Nations, is desirable. The ability to communicate effectively in these languages is crucial for collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the humanitarian sector.

Additional Notes:
The position is initially based in Bangui, but may be transferred to another location depending on operational needs. The appointment is contingent upon successful completion of a probationary period, and the initial contract duration is for 12 months. OCHA emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks. OCHA is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunity for all applicants regardless of their background.