Operations Associate

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Operations Associate
Location: Afghanistan
Country: Afghanistan
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading UN organization dedicated to addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in 170 countries, employing a diverse workforce committed to sustainable development. In Afghanistan, UNDP has been active for over 50 years, focusing on critical areas like climate resilience, gender equality, governance, health, and rule of law. The organization emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from marginalized populations and ensuring a safe and respectful work environment free from harassment and discrimination.

Job Overview:
The Operations Associate will play a crucial role in supporting the administrative and financial management of UNDP's regional office in Afghanistan. This position requires a proactive individual who can implement operational strategies, ensure compliance with UNDP policies, and manage financial resources effectively. The Operations Associate will work closely with the Regional Area Manager and the Operations Unit to facilitate the smooth functioning of UNDP programs in the region. This role is vital in maintaining financial records, preparing budgets, and ensuring that all financial transactions are properly documented and authorized. The incumbent will also be responsible for providing administrative support, including data management, logistical arrangements for missions, and maintaining office files. The Operations Associate will contribute to knowledge sharing and capacity building within the organization, ensuring that best practices in financial management and administration are documented and disseminated.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Implement operational and financial management strategies, ensuring compliance with UNDP rules and regulations.
• Prepare budgets, periodic expenditure reports, and donor reports.
• Manage bank and cash operations, maintaining accurate financial records.
• Analyze and monitor financial situations, presenting forecasts and monitoring unusual transactions.
• Provide administrative support for program implementation, including data entry and verification.
• Organize logistical arrangements for missions, including accommodation and agenda preparation.
• Maintain up-to-date office and program files, ensuring documentation is organized in UNDP SharePoint.
• Assist in preparing annual and quarterly work plans and reports.
• Ensure efficient deployment and maintenance of program equipment. 1
• Support recruitment and procurement processes in accordance with UNDP procedures. 1
• Supervise drivers and ensure proper maintenance of vehicles and office supplies. 1
• Facilitate knowledge sharing and training on financial management and administrative procedures. 1
• Document lessons learned and best practices in financial management and administration. 1
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Area Manager.

Required Qualifications:

• Secondary education is required; a Bachelor's degree in finance/accounting, Business, or Public Administration is preferred.
• Professional accounting qualification from an internationally recognized institute will be considered.
• Minimum of six years of relevant experience with secondary education or three years with a bachelor's degree in Business Administration, financial management, or Public Administration.
• Familiarity with the region and ability to work independently and proactively.
• Proficiency in using computers and office software packages, including MS Word and Excel.
• Experience in financial management, administration, procurement, and human resources is desired.
• Previous experience with UN or NGO organizations is an asset.
• Experience supervising staff is preferred.

Educational Background:
The position requires at least secondary education, with a preference for candidates holding a Bachelor's degree in finance/accounting, Business, or Public Administration. A professional accounting qualification from a recognized institute will also be considered favorably. This educational background is essential to ensure that the Operations Associate possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to manage financial and administrative tasks effectively.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of six years of relevant experience if they possess secondary education, or three years of experience if they hold a bachelor's degree. This experience should encompass various aspects of administration, including financial management, procurement, and human resources. Familiarity with the region is a requirement, and candidates should demonstrate the ability to work independently, take initiative, and maintain accuracy and reliability in their work. Experience in financial oversight and administration within UN or NGO contexts is highly desirable.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, both written and oral. Additionally, fluency in the local languages of Dari and/or Pashto is required. This language proficiency is crucial for effective communication within the regional office and with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is contingent upon the successful completion of a probationary period, which lasts for 12 months. The UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from individuals of all backgrounds. UNDP does not charge any fees during the application or recruitment process, and candidates are advised to be cautious of any solicitations for payment.