Finance and Budget Assistant
Organizational Context
The Finance and Budget Assistant position is situated within the Finance and Budget Section of the Programme Support and Management Services at the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva. The role operates under the direct supervision of the Finance Officer, Head of the Unit, contributing to the financial operations of the section.
Job Purpose
The Finance and Budget Assistant is responsible for providing comprehensive support in financial and budgetary matters within the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). This includes assisting with budget preparation, monitoring expenditures against approved budgets, and ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial data. The role supports managers in resource allocation, prepares financial reports for various stakeholders, and processes payments and grants. Additionally, the assistant ensures compliance with UN policies and procedures, handles financial inquiries, and may provide guidance to other staff, contributing to the efficient financial management and operational effectiveness of the section.
Responsibilities
The Finance and Budget Assistant manages various budgetary functions, including acting as a Certifying Officer, reviewing and preparing cost estimates, and supporting budget proposals and revisions. Responsibilities include monitoring expenditures, reconciling accounts, and preparing financial reports for donors and stakeholders. The role involves reviewing requisitions, ensuring fund availability, and verifying the accuracy of financial databases. A key duty is the processing and monitoring of grants to third-party implementing partners, including reviewing applications, verifying financial reports, and facilitating payments. The assistant also supports audit responses, maintains financial records, and may provide guidance to junior staff. General duties include staying updated on financial guidelines, drafting correspondence, and assisting with data analysis and reporting for planning and decision-making.
Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of experience in finance, budget, accounting, or administrative services is required. Four years of experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, UMOJA) and in preparing/monitoring budgets is necessary. Experience in analyzing financial reports, processing grants, providing financial advice, and assisting with audit responses is also required. Experience within the UN system or similar organizations is desirable.
Skills
Professionalism, accountability, client orientation, data analysis, financial rules and regulations, budget preparation and monitoring, financial reporting, ERP system proficiency, grant processing, audit support, communication, and attention to detail.