Accounts Analyst

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Accounts Analyst
Location: New York City
Country: United States
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, which is the lead UN agency focused on reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization is committed to advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls, and it plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges such as maternal health, family planning, and gender-based violence. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the importance of achieving transformative results in these areas, particularly in the context of the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. With a diverse workforce, UNFPA values integrity, diversity, and a healthy work-life balance, and it actively promotes gender parity and inclusion within its ranks.

Job Overview:
The Accounts Analyst position is situated within the Statutory Reporting Unit (SRU) of the Finance Branch at UNFPA. This role is pivotal in supporting the organization's compliance with International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) and involves a range of responsibilities including the preparation of financial statements, statutory reports, and ensuring that financial management practices align with international standards. The Accounts Analyst will work closely with the head of the SRU and other finance professionals to facilitate the transition to new IPSAS standards, conduct research on their implications, and develop necessary policies and procedures. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying system modifications and ensuring that UNFPA's financial reporting is accurate and compliant. The role also involves collaboration with other UN agencies to establish common approaches to IPSAS adoption, thereby enhancing the overall financial integrity of the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Accounts Analyst will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties including: researching new IPSAS standards and analyzing their potential impacts on UNFPA's accounting policies and systems; drafting analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">technical analysis papers to communicate these impacts; engaging with colleagues in sister UN agencies to develop unified approaches to IPSAS adoption; supporting the development of transition plans for new standards; updating accounting policies and procedures to ensure compliance; preparing financial statements and statutory reports; liaising with auditors and responding to their queries; implementing quality assurance measures for financial data; participating in the design and implementation of new financial systems and tools; and providing training and support to users in financial management matters related to IPSAS. The role also includes conducting periodic account reconciliations and ensuring the accuracy of financial data across various business units.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in accounting, financial reporting, or a related field. A professional accounting qualification from an internationally recognized accounting body, such as a Chartered Accountant or Certified Public Accountant, is highly advantageous. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of two years of experience in accounting or financial reporting, with a focus on the adoption and implementation of accounting standards. Demonstrated experience in preparing financial statements, compliance with international accounting standards, and conducting financial data analysis is essential. Familiarity with IPSAS and/or International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) is required, along with experience in ERP systems, preferably Oracle-based products. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are also necessary for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in accounting, financial reporting, or a related field. Candidates with a professional accounting qualification from a recognized accounting body will have a distinct advantage. This educational foundation is critical for understanding complex financial reporting standards and ensuring compliance with international accounting practices.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience in accounting or financial reporting, particularly in the context of adopting and implementing international accounting standards. Candidates should have a proven track record in preparing financial statements and ensuring compliance with IPSAS or IFRS. Experience with financial data analysis, account reconciliations, and financial audits is also essential. Familiarity with ERP systems, especially those related to financial management, is highly desirable, as is experience in conducting gap analyses and drafting accounting policies.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNFPA. Knowledge of other official UN languages, particularly French, is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's profile, especially in a multicultural work environment.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package that includes a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits as applicable. UNFPA is committed to providing a work environment that reflects its values of gender equality, diversity, and integrity. The organization 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.