Finance Assistant
Organizational Context
The Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) promotes sustainable and inclusive development and regional connectivity in Asia and the Pacific. As a regional development arm of the UN Secretariat, ESCAP supports member states with policy research, analysis, and capacity-building. This Finance Assistant role is situated within the Financial Operations Unit of the Division of Administration, reporting to the Chief of the Financial Operations Unit.
Job Purpose
The Finance Assistant supports the Financial Operations Unit in managing the financial activities of ESCAP. This involves assisting with budget preparation, expenditure monitoring, and ensuring compliance with financial policies and procedures. The role contributes to the accurate and efficient financial management of the organization's resources, supporting its mandate to promote sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region. Key functions include preparing budget documents, reviewing requisitions, processing payments, reconciling accounts, and providing financial information to stakeholders, ensuring adherence to IPSAS and UN financial regulations.
Responsibilities
The Finance Assistant is responsible for supporting budget processes, including preparing cost estimates, budget proposals, and performance reports. This involves monitoring expenditures against approved budgets, reviewing requisitions for accuracy and compliance, and ensuring correct accounting treatment. The role also entails processing payments to third parties and commercial entities, managing claims, and assisting with treasury operations such as remitting payments and reconciling bank accounts. Additionally, the incumbent will handle payment inquiries, monitor bank balances, assist with cash management, and maintain financial records. General duties include staying updated on financial guidelines, drafting correspondence, maintaining files, and potentially providing guidance to junior staff. Data analysis and reporting for decision-making are also key aspects of the role.
Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of progressive experience in finance or accounting is required, or five years if holding a first-level university degree. Experience within the UN Common System or similar international organizations is desirable, as is experience with UN financial policies, IPSAS, and ERP systems like SAP. Experience in global client service management for payments and process improvement is also beneficial.
Skills
Professionalism in applying UN financial rules and procedures; ability to extract, interpret, and analyze financial data; skill in identifying and resolving discrepancies; strong planning and organizational abilities; effective teamwork and collaboration; commitment to gender equality; data analysis and modeling capabilities.