Finance Specialist

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Position Title: Finance Specialist
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Country: Brazil
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is dedicated to promoting sustainable development of human settlements and policies that ensure adequate housing for all. Established to address urban development challenges, UN-Habitat collaborates with various stakeholders, including governments and civil society, to implement the Habitat Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals. The organization operates globally, with a significant focus on Latin America and the Caribbean through its Regional Office for Latin American and the Caribbean (ROLAC) based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. UN-Habitat has expanded its portfolio in Brazil, working with all levels of government to formulate and implement effective urban policies that are socially equitable and environmentally sustainable. The organization emphasizes the importance of building resilient urban environments that provide better opportunities for all citizens, particularly the urban poor.

Job Overview:
The Finance Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of UN-Habitat's projects and initiatives in Brazil and the Southern Cone countries. Reporting to the Head of Brazil Office and Officer-in-Charge for the Southern Cone Office, the Finance Specialist will be responsible for ensuring that financial operations align with UN regulations and best practices. This position requires collaboration with UN-Habitat’s operational and technical teams to gather and analyze financial information, prepare financial plans, and evaluate cost structures. The Finance Specialist will also be tasked with preparing budget reports and financial statements, performing risk assessments, and recommending solutions to enhance financial efficiency. This role is essential for maintaining the financial integrity of UN-Habitat's projects and ensuring compliance with organizational standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: 1) Collaborating with management to gather and analyze financial information; 2) Analyzing and executing administrative procedures to ensure compliance with UN regulations; 3) Preparing financial plans and evaluating cost structures; 4) Preparing budget reports and financial statements in accordance with UN rules; 5) Performing risk modeling and quantifying results to inform strategic business decisions; 6) Recommending solutions to reduce expenses, increase revenue, and maximize efficiency; 7) Monitoring the implementation of financial plans and making necessary adjustments; 8) Documenting financial processes and presenting progress reports; 9) Staying informed of UN rules and best practices in financial management; 10) Undertaking additional duties as assigned by the supervisor to enhance the efficiency of UN-Habitat’s urban development response.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong educational background and relevant experience. Required qualifications include: 1) Post-Graduation courses (Lato Sensu or Stricto Sensu) in Business, Public Administration, Management, Finance, Accounting, or Economics, or an additional 4 years of relevant technical experience; 2) A minimum of seven (7) years of experience in project or programme management, administration, financial management, or related areas; 3) Proficiency in business management, statistical, analytical, and spreadsheet software; 4) Understanding of accounting principles and practices; 5) Excellent analytical and strategic thinking abilities; 6) Familiarity with the SAP system is desirable; 7) Strong computer skills in Windows and Office packages; 8) analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Financial analysis and problem-solving skills are essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Post-Graduation degree in relevant fields such as Business, Public Administration, Management, Finance, Accounting, or Economics. Alternatively, candidates may qualify with an additional four years of relevant technical experience beyond the educational requirement. This educational foundation is critical for understanding complex financial systems and contributing effectively to project management and financial oversight.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven (7) years of relevant experience in project or programme management, administration, financial management, or related fields. This experience should demonstrate a strong understanding of financial processes, compliance with regulations, and the ability to manage complex financial operations effectively. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in inter-institutional environments and managing financial aspects of projects.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese and English is required for this position, as these are the primary working languages for the role. Additionally, knowledge of Spanish is beneficial, given that it is the working language of the Regional Office. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the UN-Habitat framework and with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the contract is six months, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and availability of funds. The position is local, and only nationals from Brazil or candidates with a permanent visa in Brazil may apply. The consultant will receive a monthly allowance upon approval of their activity report by the Head of Brazil Office and OiC for Southern Cone Office. The remuneration for this position is set at SB-4/4 – BRL: 14,305.25 (net amount). It is important to note that the extension of the contract is not automatic and is subject to the availability of funds. All applications must be submitted in English and include a cover memo, educational background, professional experience, and other relevant information. The UN-Habitat organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.