Chief of Service (Chief, Financial Operations Service)
Organizational Context
This role is within the Common Administrative Platform (CAP) at UN Headquarters, part of the Department of Operational Support (DOS). DOS provides global operational support, and DOA in New York offers administrative services including finance. CAP consolidates administrative functions as part of the UN80 reform. This position leads the Financial Operations Service within CAP at UN HQ, reporting to the Director of Administration.
Job Purpose
The Chief of Service (Financial Operations Service) is responsible for overseeing key financial functions including global payroll, accounts payable, income tax, commercial insurance, and financial monitoring. This role requires strategic coordination, operational leadership, and policy interpretation to ensure timely and compliant execution of programmed activities. The incumbent will manage various service desks, provide guidance on policy matters, act as Risk Manager for UN insurance, and oversee system enhancements for client service and financial accuracy. The position involves managing a work program, preparing reports for intergovernmental bodies, ensuring high-quality outputs, and managing budgets and staff performance. The role is crucial for the effective functioning of the Financial Operations Service and contributes to the overall administrative support provided by the UN Secretariat.
Responsibilities
Oversee global payroll (onePayroll), accounts payable, income tax, commercial insurance, and financial monitoring functions. Ensure timely execution of programmed activities and coordinate work across different desks. Provide strategic coordination, operational leadership, and policy interpretation, ensuring compliance with the UN Regulatory Framework. Manage the Financial Operations Service, including global payroll, income tax, travel claims, vendor invoice processing, and commercial insurance. Advise senior officials on policy matters related to these areas and ensure proper formulation and implementation of policies and procedures. Act as Risk Manager for UN property and casualty insurance, coordinating risk assessments and coverage requirements. Oversee the development and enhancement of systems and procedures for client service and financial transaction accounting. Provide policy guidance and ensure timely processing of payrolls, claims, and awards. Maintain relationships with internal and external auditors. Lead, supervise, and coordinate the work program of the Financial Operations Service, including programmatic reviews. Oversee the preparation and presentation of reports to intergovernmental bodies. Ensure high-quality outputs and compliance with mandates. Assist the Director in work program preparation, prioritization, and resource allocation. Manage programmatic and administrative tasks, including budgeting, performance reporting, staff performance evaluation, recruitment, and staff development.
Work Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in finance, accounting, payroll, administration, or financial management is required. Five years of experience leading teams in relevant service areas is necessary. Experience with global payroll software, HR/payroll systems, data analytics, change management, and business improvement initiatives is essential. Experience managing commercial insurance programs and knowledge of international labor laws and tax regulations are desirable.
Skills
Professionalism, Accountability, Client Orientation, Leadership, Judgement/Decision-Making, Strategic Coordination, Operational Leadership, Policy Interpretation, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Staff Management, Risk Management, Change Management, Business Improvement, Financial Management, Budgeting, Reporting, Team Leadership, Communication.