Finance & Administrative Officer (Education)
Organizational Context
The UNESCO International Bureau of Education (IBE) is seeking a Finance & Administrative Officer (P-3) in Geneva. The incumbent will report to the Director of IBE and be responsible for ensuring the efficient, effective, and compliant administration of financial and human resources. This role involves adherence to UNESCO's administrative, human resources, and financial rules and regulations, with delegated authority for financial internal control.
Job Purpose
The Finance and Administrative Officer will ensure effective interaction between the IBE and central administrative and financial services at UNESCO headquarters in Paris. This position is crucial for the smooth operation of the IBE by overseeing and coordinating administrative and financial functions. The role requires leadership in managing the Administrative Unit, ensuring efficient service delivery for IBE activities and projects. This includes comprehensive support for budget preparation, contract management, financial accounting, internal control, travel, and monitoring implementation. The officer will also manage human resources administration, including staffing, recruitment, performance assessments, and training, to foster a productive work environment. Additionally, the role involves maintaining security arrangements, managing office premises, and safeguarding fixed assets.
Responsibilities
Lead and supervise the Administrative Unit staff, ensuring effective planning, coordination, and prioritization of daily tasks to meet overall objectives. Oversee the efficient execution of administrative and financial services supporting IBE activities and projects, encompassing budget preparation, contract management, financial accounting, internal control, travel management, and implementation monitoring. Coordinate administrative matters related to human resources, including staffing actions, recruitment, performance assessments, advice, and training, to meet organizational requirements and support a productive work environment. Implement and maintain effective security arrangements and policies, liaising with UNESCO headquarters and other UN agencies. Ensure the upkeep and proper functioning of office premises, compliance with the Host Country Agreement, and maintain relationships with relevant authorities. Manage and safeguard fixed assets. Provide input to key documents such as the IBE Governing Council and donor reports, contributing to IBE strategy, donor proposal preparation, and partner agreements. Prepare and certify donor financial reports accurately. Ensure all IBE accounts are maintained, and annual financial statements are prepared and submitted in liaison with the Director Finance. Provide administrative management support to the UNESCO Geneva Liaison Office.
Work Experience
A minimum of four years of progressively responsible work experience in management, finance, accounting, or administration is required, with at least two years at the international level. Experience in financial management, internal control duties, and implementing modern financial practices is essential. Proven experience in preparing financial statements for audits and in personnel management and general administrative services is also necessary.
Skills
Proficiency in problem-solving, creativity, and analytical thinking related to financial management and control. Ability to interpret complex organizational rules and processes. Excellent organizational and multi-tasking abilities. Demonstrated integrity and discretion. Familiarity with internal and external audit proceedings. Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office. Knowledge of an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, preferably SAP (Finance and HR modules), is desirable.