The Pacific Community is the principal scientific and technical organisation in the Pacific region, proudly supporting development since 1947. We are an international development organisation owned and governed by our 26 country and territory members. In pursuit of sustainable development to benefit Pacific people, our unique organisation works across more than 25 sectors. We are renowned for our knowledge and innovation in such areas as fisheries science, public health surveillance, geoscience, and conservation of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.
The Land Resources Division (LRD) provides advice, technical assistance, research and training support to Pacific Island countries and territories (PICTs) on all aspects of agriculture and forestry. This includes plant protection, conservation, plant genetic resources, animal health and production, agroforestry, biosecurity and trade facilitation, and sustainable systems for agriculture, forestry and land management. This work has three objectives: improved food and nutritional security; integrated and sustainable agricultural and forestry resource management and development; and improved and increased trade in agriculture and forestry products. The division’s services are provided through seven technical/thematic teams: Animal Health and Production; Plant Health; Biosecurity and Trade Facilitation; Forest and Agriculture Diversification; Crop Production; Genetic Resources; and Forests and Trees. The division currently has around 90 staff.
The role – The Finance and Procurement Officer will support, facilitate and provide overall financial and procurement management of the implementation of the Coconut Industry Development for the Pacific (CIDP) project. In addition, the Officer will be responsible for monitoring and evaluating project finances and procurement processes to ensure compliance with the overall project implementation plan in accordance with SPC and European Union processes and regulations. The Officer will work closely with the Team Leader to lead financial reporting that will support strategic decision-making, and promote shared learning internally and with partners, which will involve supporting resource mobilisation and tracking funds leveraged as a result of EU assistance.
Key responsibilities of the role include:
Administer, monitor and assess project budgets; prepare quarterly financial reports, project budgets and annual work plans; prepare regular financial progress reports; identify finance and implementation issues as and when they arise; provide Team Leader with risk management advice pertaining to project delivery; develop a sound financial coding structure for recording transactions; liaise directly with PICTs and private sector beneficiaries on project coordination and financial reporting matters.
Monitor and report regularly against project implementation plan; evaluate, monitor and update requirements around letters of agreement; ensure relevant reports and monitoring tables are readily available to the Project Steering Committee; arrange and participate in project audits; in collaboration with the Team Leader prepare budgets for project proposals to secure additional funding; promote shared learning within SPC and among relevant stakeholders.
Develop procurement plans for the project and sub-activities; facilitate major RFQ and tender processes; develop tender quotation documents; provide support and guidance to procurement committees during evaluations; prepare contracts; manage and oversee contracts and entire procurement process; manage request for proposal (RFP) register.
Undertake project coordination including office administration, staff travel arrangements, and organization of meetings and events; provide reporting support to Team Leader; provide administrative support for regional meetings.
Key selection criteria
1. Qualifications
A graduate degree in accounting, finance or business administration, and a member of a professional accounting body.
2. Technical expertise
At least 5 years’ proven experience in a similar position working with project leaders at a strategic level. Demonstrated experience in project budgeting, financial reporting, addressing audit requirements and ensuring efficient systems are in place for international fund transfer. Demonstrated experience in procurement, including developing procurement plans, tender documents and quotations, and contract management. Previous experience working within a donor-centred environment, and using financial management systems such as Microsoft Navision.
3. Essential skills
Ability to manage competing demands in a busy environment. Excellent organisational skills with an ability to communicate effectively with staff. Ability to think fast, solve problems and provide innovative solutions, whilst working as part of a team. Excellent IT skills, including strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
4. Language skills
Proficiency in English, with a working knowledge of French being an advantage.
5. Interpersonal skills and cultural awareness
Strong interpersonal skills. Team player with the ability to network and work effectively in a multicultural setting. Cultural sensitivity, and a demonstrated understanding of developing country environments. Knowledge of Pacific Island countries and territories is an advantage.
Salary, terms and conditions
Required start date – Immediate
Contract Duration – This position is budgeted for 30 months and may be renewed depending on available funding and performance.
Remuneration – The Finance and Procurement Officer is a Band 8 position within SPC’s 2016 salary scale, with a starting salary range of SDR (special drawing rights) 1,907-2,384 per month, which currently converts to approximately FJD 5,608–7,010; USD 2,651–3,314; EUR 2,412–3,015. An offer of appointment for an initial contract will normally be made in the lower half of this range, with due consideration being given to experience and qualifications. Progression within the salary scale will be based on annual performance reviews. Remuneration of expatriate SPC staff members is not subject to income tax in Fiji; however, Fiji nationals employed by SPC in Fiji will be subject to income tax.
Languages – SPC’s working languages are English and French.
