Finance Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a prominent organization within the UN Development System, established to serve as a knowledge frontier for sustainable development. UNDP's mission is to integrate collective action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The organization operates at various levels, including headquarters, regional, and country offices, providing a continuous spectrum of local knowledge and global perspectives. UNDP has invested in the Global Policy Network (GPN), which encompasses field-based and global technical expertise across diverse knowledge domains. This network supports the signature solutions and organizational capabilities outlined in the Strategic Plan. The UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights are recognized as a critical framework for promoting sustainable business practices, reinforcing UNDP's role in advocating for human rights and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Finance Officer position is integral to the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) program in Ethiopia, which was initiated following a peace agreement between the Government of Ethiopia and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). This program aims to facilitate the disarmament of former combatants and their reintegration into civilian life, thereby restoring peace and promoting reconciliation in the region. The Finance Officer will work under the direct supervision of the Director of the DDR Unit, ensuring high-quality support for financial management activities. The role involves project planning, budgeting, financial reporting, and providing financial management services to ensure compliance with UNDP standards and donor requirements. The Finance Officer will also play a crucial role in capacity building and integrated program implementation, contributing to the overall success of the DDR program.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Officer will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Effective Project Planning & Budgeting: Preparing and maintaining project budgets, monitoring expenditures, providing cash flow forecasts, advising on financial deficiencies, and ensuring proper documentation for audit purposes.
• Financial Management Services: Preparing financial reports, analyzing financial data, providing regular updates to the project team, monitoring disbursements, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations.
• General Administrative Services: Handling procurement of goods and services, facilitating travel logistics, and organizing workshops and meetings.
• Integrated Programme Implementation & Capacity Building: Contributing to project planning and reporting, identifying collaborative areas of work, and guiding Implementing Partners on accounting principles and procedures. The Finance Officer will also perform other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong financial management skills, including proficiency in budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance with donor requirements. The ideal candidate should have experience in project financial management, particularly within the context of international development or humanitarian assistance. Familiarity with UNDP financial rules and regulations is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate financial information effectively to non-financial stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field is required. A master's degree or professional certification in finance or accounting (such as CPA or ACCA) is preferred and may enhance a candidate's qualifications for the position.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience in financial management, preferably in an international development context. Experience working with UN agencies or similar organizations is an advantage. The role requires a solid understanding of financial principles, budgeting processes, and reporting standards, as well as experience in managing financial resources effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of the UNDP. Knowledge of local languages, such as Amharic, is an asset and may facilitate better communication with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is a national UN Volunteer assignment, which means that the selected candidate will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The living conditions in Addis Ababa may require the candidate to adapt to a different lifestyle, including managing basic infrastructure challenges. The UN Volunteer will receive entitlements as per the duty station, and further details can be found on the UNV website. The role is expected to be full-time, and the candidate should be prepared to engage actively in the DDR program's objectives.