Financial Management Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP was established in 1972 and has since been a pivotal player in advocating for the global environment. It operates in over 100 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to various environmental initiatives. UNEP is one of the three original implementing agencies of the Global Environment Facility (GEF), working alongside the World Bank and the UN Development Programme (UNDP). The GEF collaborates with 15 other agencies to assist developing countries in achieving global environmental benefits across six focal areas: biological diversity, climate change, international waters, chemicals and waste management, and land degradation.

Job Overview:
The Financial Management Officer position is situated within the Global Environment Facility Coordination Unit of the Policy and Programme Division at UNEP's Nairobi Duty Station. The incumbent will be responsible for overseeing the financial management of the Global Environment Facility Funds, which includes preparing management reports, budget proposals, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. The role requires a strong understanding of financial principles and practices, as well as the ability to develop and implement budgetary policies and procedures. The officer will work closely with various stakeholders to provide substantive support in financial matters and will be expected to maintain the integrity of financial systems and controls. This position also involves advising and training staff on budgetary policies and procedures, ensuring that all financial activities align with UNEP's mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Financial Management Officer include:

• Reviewing, analyzing, and finalizing the preparation of Global Environment Facility Funds management reports.
• Providing substantive support to stakeholders in their review of financial reports.
• Reporting to the GEF Trustee in accordance with financial procedures agreements.
• Preparing cost estimates and budget proposals, ensuring compliance with UNEP rules.
• Issuing allotments and authorizing sub-allotments, managing budget implementation, and monitoring expenditures.
• Administering extra-budgetary resources and ensuring compliance with established policies.
• Preparing budget performance submissions and analyzing variances between budgets and actual expenditures.
• Providing guidance and training to staff on financial policies and procedures.
• Participating in inter-departmental meetings related to budgetary issues. 1
• Conducting research and analysis of budgetary policies and making recommendations for improvements. 1
• Acting as Certifying Officer to ensure compliance with financial regulations. 1
• Collecting and analyzing data to provide insights for decision-making and reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of financial and budgetary principles, with the ability to develop and implement budgetary policies and procedures. They should demonstrate professional competence and efficiency in meeting commitments and achieving results. The role requires a commitment to gender perspectives and ensuring equal participation in all areas of work. Candidates should also exhibit teamwork skills, planning and organizing abilities, and a strong sense of accountability in their work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, finance, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in finance, administration, budget, or business administration is required. At least three years of experience in finance and budget within the United Nations or a similar international organization at a professional level is essential. Candidates should have experience with financial systems and ERP modules, particularly SAP, and must have a background in reviewing financial statements. Experience in fund management and donor reporting to the Global Environment Facility or other global funds is also required, along with extensive experience in preparing financial reports in an IPSAS-compliant environment.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and French is required, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of other UN official languages is considered an asset. Fluency in English or French is mandatory, while knowledge of additional languages is desirable.

Additional Notes:
The initial appointment for this position is for a period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The selected candidate will receive a fixed-term appointment limited in accordance with UN administrative instructions. The position is subject to the authority of the Secretary-General, and staff members are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.