The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization within the United Nations System. UNU engages in policy-relevant research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination in furtherance of the purposes and principles of the United Nations. The work of UNU contributes to solving pressing global problems that are the concern of the United Nations and its Member States.
Responsibilities :
Under the guidance and supervision of the Head of Operations (HOO), the Operations & Finance Associate (OFA) ensures effective execution of financial services and processes at UNU-IIGH and transparent utilization of financial resources. The OFA promotes a client-oriented approach consistent with UN and UNU rules and regulations.
The OFA works in close collaboration with the operations team, work package lead, and project staff at UNU-IIGH and UNU-Centre to resolve finance-related issues and ensure consistent service delivery and information exchange.
Assist in the implementation of operational and financial management strategies, ensuring compliance with UN/UNU rules and regulations of financial processes, records and reports (monthly and year-end closing), and audit follow-up, under the guidance of the HOO.
Contribute to the application and improvement of the UNU internal control framework, identifying and escalating risks to the HOO as appropriate.
Provide input into UNU-IIGH finance business processes mapping and support the implementation of internal Standard Operating Procedures in Finance in consultation with HOO and Director
Support the preparation and monitoring of Finance team results-oriented workplans; ensuring alignment with established objectives and direction from the HOO.
Process accounts payable transactions, ensuring proper control of the supporting documents for payments and financial reports, preparation of all types of vouchers, and payments execution.
Maintain accurate accruals internal expenditures control system, ensuring vouchers processed are matched and completed, transactions are correctly recorded and posted in Quantum.
Process travel claims, and other entitlements as required.
Facilitate timely closure of accounts (requisitions, purchase orders and contracts) at month-end and year-end, and take corrective actions on unposted vouchers, including the vouchers with budget check errors, match exceptions, and unapproved vouchers.
Respond to UNU HQ requests to resolve financial data issues, including follow-up of vouchers with banking errors, and escalating issues as needed.
Requirements :
A bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting or related discipline; OR High School Diploma with a specialized certification in Accounting and Finance, with two years of additional experience in lieu of a bachelor’s degree.
Part-qualified accountants from an internationally recognized institute of accountancy will have a distinct advantage
High School Diploma with six (6) years of progressively responsible finance and accounting experience; OR Bachelor’s Degree with four (4) years of relevant progressively responsible finance and accounting experience.
Working knowledge of International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) is preferred;
Advanced knowledge and experience in the use of MS Office such as Excel spreadsheets and Word.
Strong ability to support the planning, monitoring, and implementation of travel, administrative and event logistic arrangements.
Strong ability to work under minimal supervision and with a high level of resilience.
Ability to establish priorities, multitask, and work within tight timelines.
Experience in the handling of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems or other web-based management systems.
Knowledge of UN systems is an advantage.
Excellent team player with strong interpersonal skills demonstrated by the ability to work in a multicultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.
