Finance Associate

Job Advertisement

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

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), 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 territories, employing thousands of professionals dedicated to advancing reproductive health and rights. The organization is committed to achieving transformative results in ending preventable maternal deaths, unmet needs for family planning, and gender-based violence, as outlined in its strategic plan for 2022-202

• UNFPA emphasizes the importance of ethical standards and human rights in its operations, aiming to build a better future for women and girls globally.

Job Overview:
The Finance Associate position is integral to the Finance Branch within the Division for Management Services at the Nairobi Service Center. This role is pivotal in ensuring effective financial management and accounting practices across UNFPA's operations. The Finance Associate will provide guidance and support to various headquarters units in Nairobi, focusing on accounting and financial operations. This position is crucial for maintaining the internal control framework for payment processing, ensuring compliance with UNFPA policies, and facilitating smooth financial operations. The Finance Associate will engage in various tasks, including reviewing payment requests, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring accurate financial reporting. This role not only supports the financial sustainability of UNFPA but also contributes to the organization's broader mission of promoting reproductive health and rights.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Associate will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Partnerships, Knowledge Management, Communication, and Training: Actively participate in Finance Branch meetings, maintain positive relationships with key partners, provide financial training, and facilitate knowledge transfers.
• Business Continuity Activities: Conduct fiduciary reviews of accounts payable requests, prepare and submit invoices, review General Ledger Journal entries, and manage petty cash for Nairobi HQ units.
• Support and Guidance on Financial Management: Provide guidance on Accounts Payable processes and monitor fund codes for compliance.
• Accounting and Year-End Closure Activities: Analyze and correct general ledger accounts related to payables and assist in periodic and year-end closure processes.
• Reporting and Information Management: Monitor financial data integrity, prepare financial information for audits, and complete closure activities.
• Business Process and Systems Efficiency: Analyze reports to identify payment issues and propose improvements.
• Other Duties: Carry out additional tasks as required by UNFPA leadership.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess completed Secondary Level Education as a minimum requirement. A part-qualified professional accounting qualification (such as ACCA, CIMA, or CA) or a first-level bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or business administration is desirable. Additionally, candidates should have at least 6 years of finance-related work experience, particularly in accounts receivable, accounts payable, and general ledger maintenance. Familiarity with IPSAS or IFRS is advantageous, along with proficiency in spreadsheets, word processing, and computerized accounting systems, preferably Oracle Cloud. Strong written and oral communication skills are essential, as is the ability to work effectively under pressure with attention to detail and accuracy. A dedication to UN principles and the ability to work harmoniously with diverse individuals is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes completed Secondary Level Education as a minimum. Candidates are encouraged to have a part-qualified professional accounting qualification such as ACCA, CIMA, or CA, or a first-level bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or business administration. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of financial management and accounting practices within the UNFPA framework.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of finance-related work experience. This experience should encompass areas such as accounts receivable, accounts payable, and general ledger maintenance. Familiarity with the application of IPSAS or IFRS is considered advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in using spreadsheets, word processing, and computerized accounting systems, ideally with experience in Oracle Cloud computing. The role demands strong organizational skills and the ability to work effectively under pressure while maintaining a high level of attention to detail and accuracy.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory 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. The work environment at UNFPA reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. UNFPA is committed to ensuring gender parity and encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. The selection and appointment process may involve background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.