Senior Accounting and Finance Assistant

Organizational Context

The Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP), founded in 1964 in Trieste, Italy, aims to support scientists from developing countries by providing essential continuing education and skills for productive careers. ICTP has been instrumental in preventing scientific brain drain and has significantly advanced scientific expertise globally for over five decades, fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange in theoretical physics.

Job Purpose

Under the Senior Operations Officer and direct supervision of the Head of Unit, Budget and Finance, the Senior Accounting and Finance Assistant plays a pivotal role in managing specialized finance and accounting tasks. This includes monitoring, reporting, and ensuring strict adherence to UNESCO's Financial Rules and Regulations, accounting standards, and established procedures. The incumbent is responsible for leading, planning, and supervising the Accounting & Treasury, Invoice Control, and Travel Teams to ensure operational efficiency and compliance. Acting as a Certifying Officer, the role involves preparing draft ICTP Financial Statements and providing certified donor financial reporting, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of all financial operations.

Responsibilities

The Senior Accounting and Finance Assistant will assist the Head of Unit in the overall management of financial resources and lead the Accounting & Treasury, Invoice Control, and Travel Teams. Key responsibilities include interpreting financial policies, providing guidance and training to staff and partners, drafting Standard Operating Procedures, monitoring internal processes, and preparing statistical reports. The role involves liaising with UNESCO BFM and other stakeholders on financial matters. Core duties include maintaining accurate financial records, advising on IPSAS application, managing financial closure processes, leading the analysis and liquidation of unliquidated obligations, performing reconciliations, and overseeing payment processing. Additionally, the incumbent will assist in preparing annual IPSAS-compliant Financial Statements, coordinate with External Auditors, provide certified donor financial reporting, and oversee project audits. Asset management, including financial recording and verification, is also a key responsibility.

Work Experience

A minimum of ten years of progressive experience in finance, accounting, or budget management is essential. Expert knowledge of international accounting standards (IPSAS and/or IFRS) and their application in an international organization is required. Proficiency in SAP or a similar ERP system, along with experience in financial closure and account reconciliation, is necessary. Experience within a UN system organization or international non-profit is desirable.

Skills

Strong numerical, analytical, and problem-solving skills are crucial for interpreting financial standards and resolving complex issues. Excellent computer proficiency, including advanced MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), is needed for data consolidation and accurate financial reporting. High accuracy, discretion, and a team-oriented approach emphasizing quality and efficiency are vital. The ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage deadlines, along with proven leadership and supervision capabilities, is essential.

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