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. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, fulfilling unmet needs for family planning, and eliminating gender-based violence and harmful practices. The organization operates globally, with a mission to support countries in achieving their development goals, particularly in the areas of sexual and reproductive health and rights. UNFPA is committed to addressing the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on women and girls and aims to recover lost gains while realizing its strategic objectives. The organization values principled and ethical staff who embody international norms and standards.

Job Overview:
The Finance Analyst position is integral to the Finance Branch of UNFPA, specifically within the Nairobi Service Center. This role involves providing guidance, support, and oversight to various UNFPA units in Nairobi regarding accounting and financial operations. The Finance Analyst will be responsible for approving payments and journal entries, reviewing financial reports from implementing partners, and ensuring compliance with financial policies. The position requires collaboration with colleagues in Nairobi and other regional offices, as well as liaising with external entities providing treasury services. The Finance Analyst will play a crucial role in enhancing the transparency and effectiveness of financial resource management within the organization, contributing to the overall mission of UNFPA.

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

• Partnerships, knowledge management, communication, and training: Actively participate in Finance Branch meetings, maintain relationships with key partners, and provide financial training to staff.
• Business continuity services and management: Review and approve payments, conduct fiduciary reviews, and ensure compliance with UNFPA policies.
• Support and guidance on financial management: Provide guidance to HQ staff on financial policies and assist in resolving issues.
• Accounting and year-end closure activities: Analyze and correct general ledger accounts and support periodic closure processes.
• Reporting and information management: Compile financial reports, monitor data integrity, and resolve discrepancies.
• Business process and systems efficiency: Analyze reports to identify payment issues and propose improvements.
• Additional 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 (such as CPA or CA) along with a Bachelor's degree is also acceptable. Candidates should have a minimum of two years of experience in financial management or accounting, with proven experience in managing financial policies and systems in development organizations. Advanced knowledge of spreadsheet and database software, as well as experience with web-based management systems and ERP financials, is required. Familiarity with Oracle ERP is an advantage. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, along with excellent written and spoken communication abilities, are essential.

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 recognized professional accounting designation (CPA, CA) in conjunction with a Bachelor's degree will be considered equivalent to a Master's level degree for this role. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding complex financial systems and policies.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience in financial management, accounting, or related areas. Candidates should have a track record of successfully managing and implementing financial policies and processes within development organizations, either at the national or international level. Experience in handling financial operations and systems is essential for this role.

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.

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 equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics.