Finance and Budget Officer

Organizational Context

This position is within the Payroll and Accounts Payable Section (PAPS) of the Division of Administration (DA), Department of Operational Support (DOS) at the UN Secretariat. DOS provides operational advisory services across the Secretariat, including to field missions and regional commissions. PAPS is responsible for global payroll and payments, policy advice, and system enhancements. The incumbent reports to the Chief of PAPS.

Job Purpose

The Finance and Budget Officer plays a crucial role in managing and overseeing financial operations within the Payroll and Accounts Payable Section (PAPS). This involves the comprehensive review, analysis, and finalization of the programme plan and its revisions, ensuring legislative mandates are accurately reflected in programme budgets. The role is instrumental in budget preparation, including cost estimates and proposals for staff and non-staff requirements, and providing support to managers. Furthermore, the officer is responsible for budget administration, including issuing allotments, monitoring implementation, and managing expenditures. A key function is authorizing payments for specific claims and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. The role also involves financial analysis, reporting, and ensuring the integrity of accounting and internal control systems, contributing to the overall financial health and compliance of the section.

Responsibilities

The Finance and Budget Officer is responsible for programme planning, including reviewing and finalizing the programme plan and its revisions, ensuring alignment with departmental submissions and intergovernmental decisions, and translating legislative mandates into programme budgets. In budget preparation, the officer analyzes cost estimates and budget proposals for staff and non-staff requirements, supports managers in resource elaboration, and contributes to programme budget implications for Security Council statements. Budget administration includes issuing allotments, monitoring implementation, reallocating funds, and authorizing payments for various claims. The role also involves administering extra-budgetary resources, reviewing requisitions, and preparing budget performance reports. In finance, the officer analyzes accounts, resolves irregularities, approves expenditures in line with UN regulations, ensures accounting and internal control systems are functional, and assists in preparing financial statements. Guidance on financial regulations and rules, transaction monitoring, and participation in accounting policy development are also key duties. The officer also supervises payroll support issues and collaborates on ERP system enhancements.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressive professional experience in accounting, finance, or budget is required, with at least two years specifically in payroll administration or support. Experience supervising a team, training staff, and resolving complex payroll matters is also required. Desirable experience includes liaising with auditors, using ERP systems (like SAP or PeopleSoft), and working with UN financial regulations and procedures.

Skills

• Professionalism in finance and budget principles, development, and administration. • Strong planning and organizing abilities, including goal setting and resource allocation. • High level of accountability and commitment to delivering results. • Performance management skills, including delegation, feedback, and staff development. • Knowledge of UN Financial Regulations and Rules. • Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, PeopleSoft) is desirable.

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