Finance Analyst

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Finance Analyst
Location: Nairobi
Country: Kenya
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund), which is the lead UN agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to promote reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and the empowerment of women and girls. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) agenda, particularly in the context of the ongoing challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. UNFPA emphasizes the importance of principled and ethical staff who embody international norms and standards, and who are dedicated to delivering high-impact results in their work.

Job Overview:
The Finance Analyst position is integral to the Finance Branch, Division for Management Services, based in the Nairobi Service Center, Kenya. This role involves providing guidance, support, and oversight to UNFPA's Nairobi-based headquarters units in accounting and financial operations. The Finance Analyst will ensure effective and transparent management of financial resources, approving payments and journal entries, reviewing implementing partner reports, and overseeing petty cash management. The position requires collaboration with various units within the Finance Branch and external partners to maintain business continuity and enhance financial management practices. The Finance Analyst will also contribute to the global financial management community and support the organization's strategic objectives by managing financial resources efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Analyst will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including:

• Partnerships, knowledge management, communication, and training: Actively participate in Finance Branch meetings, maintain relationships with key partners, provide financial training, and facilitate knowledge transfers.
• Business continuity services and management: Review and approve non-PO payments, conduct fiduciary reviews, perform quality assurance finance reviews of Implementing Partners' forms, and manage petty cash.
• Support and guidance on financial management: Provide guidance on UNFPA financial policies, review data integrity, and support offices in resolving issues.
• Accounting and year-end closure activities: Analyze and correct general ledger accounts, ensuring accuracy during closure processes.
• Reporting and information management: Compile financial reports, monitor data integrity, and reconcile general ledger accounts.
• Business process and systems efficiency: Analyze reports to identify payment issues and propose improvements.
• Carry out any other duties as required by UNFPA leadership.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in accounting, financial reporting, or a related discipline. A recognized professional accounting designation (CPA, CA) along with a Bachelor's degree is considered equivalent to a Master's level degree for this position. Additionally, candidates should have advanced knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages, experience with web-based management systems and ERP financials, and strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent written and spoken communication skills are essential, and exposure to drafting policies or guidance notes is advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in accounting, financial reporting, or a related discipline. Candidates with a recognized professional accounting designation (such as CPA or CA) in conjunction with a Bachelor's degree will also meet the educational requirements. This educational foundation is critical for understanding complex financial systems and ensuring compliance with financial policies and procedures.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of two years of experience in financial management, accounting, or related areas. Proven experience in managing and implementing financial policies, processes, and systems in development organizations at either the national or international level is essential. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to navigate complex financial environments and contribute to effective financial management practices.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Additionally, a working knowledge of another official UN language is desirable, which would enhance communication and collaboration within the diverse UNFPA team and with international partners.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. UNFPA is committed to ensuring gender parity and equal opportunities in all aspects of employment, including appointment, training, and compensation. Selection and appointment may be subject to background checks, medical clearance, visa issuance, and other administrative requirements. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.