Finance & Administrative Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and communities to address development challenges. The organization is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that all personnel are empowered to contribute to its mission. UNDP emphasizes a 'leave no one behind' approach, encouraging applications from individuals belonging to marginalized or excluded populations. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment, ensuring a safe and respectful work environment for all employees.

Job Overview:
The Finance & Administrative Associate will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the Strategic Monitoring and Evaluation Project in partnership with the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) in the Philippines. This position involves providing effective finance and administrative support, analyzing financial rules and regulations, and ensuring the efficient delivery of project outputs. The Associate will work closely with various teams within UNDP and NEDA, contributing to the development of project plans, maintaining financial integrity, and facilitating resource mobilization. The role requires a collaborative approach to problem-solving and a commitment to delivering quality results in a timely manner. The Finance & Administrative Associate will also be responsible for managing project documentation and ensuring compliance with audit requirements, thereby enhancing the overall capacity for monitoring and evaluation within the government.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance & Administrative Associate will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting Project Management and Fund Financial Management: Contributing to the development of annual work and procurement plans, maintaining financial integrity, managing the internal expenditures control system, preparing non-PO vouchers, and ensuring timely financial reporting.
• Supporting Resource Mobilization and Human Resources Management: Coordinating recruitment processes, maintaining project documentation, and providing logistical support for meetings and events.
• Supporting Procurement: Creating requisitions through the Quantum system and coordinating with the UNDP Procurement team for necessary supplies and services.
• Facilitating Knowledge Building and Sharing: Synthesizing lessons learned, contributing to knowledge networks, and providing accurate information and reports to supervisors. The Associate will also be expected to collaborate with various stakeholders, including government agencies and UNDP teams, to ensure effective project delivery.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of secondary education, with a university degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, or related fields being preferred. Relevant work experience is essential, with a minimum of six years required for those with secondary education or three years for those with a bachelor's degree. Demonstrated experience in project financial management, including budget preparation and financial reporting, is crucial. Familiarity with UNDP or other international development organizations is advantageous, as is experience working with government agencies. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and web-based management systems is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes completion of secondary education as a minimum requirement. A bachelor's degree in relevant fields such as Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, or Social Sciences is preferred, particularly with a specialization in finance or project management. Candidates with advanced degrees may be given additional consideration, especially if they have relevant experience in finance and administration within a project management context.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, with a minimum of six years of relevant work experience for candidates with secondary education or at least three years for those with a bachelor's degree. Experience in administration, finance, and accounting within a project management setting is essential. Candidates should have a proven track record in project financial management, including budget preparation and financial reporting, and familiarity with government processes and dynamics is considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English and Filipino is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an advantage, particularly if it enhances communication with diverse stakeholders involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Manila, Philippines. The role may involve minimal local travel for stakeholder and partnership management. Candidates are required to submit a personal CV or P11, a cover letter, and copies of relevant academic and training certificates. The UNDP emphasizes a non-discrimination policy and encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, ensuring a fair recruitment process. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks to uphold the organization's standards.