Finance Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on reproductive health and rights, aiming to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working to improve the lives of women and young people. The organization is committed to promoting gender equality and empowering women, and it plays a crucial role in addressing issues such as maternal health, family planning, and gender-based violence. UNFPA's mission is guided by its strategic plan for 2022-2025, which emphasizes transformative results in maternal health, family planning, and the elimination of harmful practices. With a diverse workforce, UNFPA values integrity, cultural diversity, and a commitment to ethical standards in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Finance Associate position is integral to the operations team at the UNFPA Moldova Country Office, located in Chisinau. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Operations Manager and will adopt a client-oriented, results-focused approach to finance management. The role involves supporting the Country Office in effectively managing its financial resources, ensuring compliance with UNFPA policies, and providing guidance to operations staff. The Finance Associate will contribute to the strategic management of financial resources, assist in budget preparation, and monitor financial transactions to ensure they align with corporate policies. This position is crucial for maintaining the financial integrity of the Country Office and supporting its mission to deliver impactful results in reproductive health and rights.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Associate will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including assisting the Operations Manager in the strategic management of financial resources, contributing to the planning and tracking of available resources, and ensuring compliance with UNFPA financial policies. Specific duties include preparing and monitoring budgets, processing financial transactions, providing accurate financial reports, and ensuring effective financial recording and reporting systems. The incumbent will also assist in managing funds for Programme Implementing Partners, ensuring timely processing of financial transactions, and conducting periodic spot checks to assess financial records. Additionally, the Finance Associate will manage travel processes for the Country Office, ensuring efficient travel management and monitoring. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying areas for improvement in financial processes and implementing necessary changes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a completed Secondary Level Education, with a first-level university degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Management, or a related field being desirable. A minimum of seven years of relevant experience in finance and budget management is required, along with proven experience in managing financial policies and processes in development organizations. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel and Word, is essential, as is experience with ERP systems such as PeopleSoft, Oracle, or SAP. The ability to produce analytical reports and communicate clearly and concisely is also necessary. Experience working with UN organizations is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The position requires at least a completed Secondary Level Education, with a first-level university degree in a relevant field such as Accounting, Finance, or Business Management being highly desirable. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for effective financial management and understanding of organizational policies and procedures.

Experience:
The Finance Associate must have a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in finance and budget management. This experience should include a proven track record of successfully managing financial policies and processes within development organizations, either at the national or international level. Candidates should demonstrate their ability to handle complex financial systems and processes, ensuring compliance with organizational standards and regulations.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Romanian is mandatory for this position. Additionally, working knowledge of one or more languages relevant to Moldova, such as Russian, Bulgarian, Gagauzian, Romani, Ukrainian, or sign language, would be considered an asset. This linguistic capability is important for effective communication within the diverse context of Moldova and for engaging with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position offers a competitive remuneration package, including a net salary and health insurance, along with other applicable benefits. The UNFPA emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented groups. The organization does not charge any fees during the application or recruitment process, and candidates are advised to be cautious of fraudulent offers. The role is full-time and based in Chisinau, Moldova, and may involve interactions with international partners and stakeholders.