Accountant

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Position Title: Accountant
Location: Juba
Country: South Sudan
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Accommodation Management Unit under the Logistics and Service Delivery (LSD) Pillar of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). UNMISS was established to support the peace process in South Sudan and to protect civilians, facilitate humanitarian assistance, and support the implementation of the peace agreement. The mission operates in a challenging environment, classified as a non-family duty station, and aims to promote stability and development in South Sudan. The organization employs a diverse workforce and operates in various sectors including logistics, administration, and finance across multiple countries, focusing on peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts.

Job Overview:
The Accountant will play a crucial role in the Accommodation Management Unit, specifically managing the Rent Recovery Cell. This position requires a high level of professionalism and expertise in financial management, particularly in relation to accommodation and rent deductions within the UNMISS framework. The incumbent will be responsible for ensuring compliance with financial regulations, preparing and analyzing budget proposals, and maintaining accurate financial records. The role demands a proactive approach to identifying and resolving financial discrepancies, ensuring that all transactions are processed efficiently and in accordance with established guidelines. The Accountant will also be involved in preparing financial statements for audits and providing guidance on financial procedures, making this position integral to the financial integrity of the mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Accountant's duties include acting as the Approving Officer under Financial Rule 105.4, preparing and reviewing cost estimates and budget proposals, analyzing accounts, and ensuring accurate accounting and reporting systems are in place. The incumbent will monitor rent recoveries, evaluate accommodation occupancy reports, and resolve any irregularities in transactions. Additionally, the Accountant will maintain close coordination with various mission sections and external entities for financial reconciliations, prepare monthly financial statements, and oversee the daily operations of the office in the absence of the Chief of the Accommodation Management Unit. Other responsibilities include developing rental and cost recovery policies, providing information for audits, and performing any other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of accounting principles and standards, with the ability to apply analytical skills in financial operations. The role requires excellent organizational skills, the ability to prioritize tasks, and a commitment to achieving results efficiently. The Accountant should demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and a collaborative spirit, working effectively within a team and maintaining productive relationships with clients. The position also demands a commitment to gender equality and the inclusion of diverse perspectives in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, finance, accounting, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, certification as an Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Certified Public Accountant (CPA), or equivalent is mandatory for this position.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in accounting, finance, or budget management is required. Candidates should have at least two years of experience in managing payroll, accommodation, and office rental processes within a Peacekeeping Mission. Experience in supervising a team and familiarity with ERP systems such as UMOJA SRM, SAP, or PeopleSoft is essential. Previous work experience with the United Nations or similar large organizations is desirable, particularly in understanding staff rules and financial regulations.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position. Knowledge of French is considered an asset, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in additional languages may enhance a candidate's application but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a non-family duty station, and candidates should be prepared for the unique challenges associated with working in South Sudan. The recruitment process is open only to roster applicants who have been pre-approved for similar functions. The United Nations encourages qualified women to apply, aiming to increase female representation in its workforce. The organization emphasizes a commitment to diversity and inclusion, and candidates will be subject to reference checks to verify their qualifications. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring procedure.