) Finance Specialist, Supply Chain Management Unit (SCMU)
Organizational Context
The Finance Specialist is part of the Finance Team within the Supply Chain Management Unit (SCMU) at UNFPA, reporting to the Head of Pillar 4 - Support Services. UNFPA is the UN agency dedicated to delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The SCMU, operational since January 2022, ensures UNFPA effectively supports the delivery of life-saving reproductive health products and programme supplies.
Job Purpose
The Finance Specialist is crucial for the financial management and controllership of the Supply Chain Management Unit (SCMU). This role involves overseeing accounts payable, internal financial controls, financial reporting, transaction processing, budget planning, and annual account closures, all in compliance with UNFPA regulations. The position also entails implementing audit recommendations and providing strategic oversight and management for a dedicated team. The purpose is to ensure the financial integrity and operational efficiency of SCMU's activities, supporting UNFPA's mandate to deliver essential supplies and services globally.
Responsibilities
The Finance Specialist supports the Head of Pillar 4 in overseeing SCMU's financial operations, ensuring strategic resource management, compliance with UNFPA policies and IPSAS standards, and operational efficiency. Key duties include leading budget planning, execution, and monitoring; overseeing ERP financial functions; managing audit preparedness, risk management, and exception reporting; and supervising accounts payable and receivable processes. The role also involves supporting innovative financing approaches, developing and implementing capacity-strengthening initiatives for supply chain professionals, and fostering knowledge sharing. Additionally, the specialist contributes to partnerships and resource mobilization, collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to enhance supply chain efficiency, and represents SCMU in financial management functions. Team management and supervision are also integral to this role.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of progressive experience in financial management or accounting is required. Experience in managing a team, particularly in a remote or matrix structure, is essential. Proficiency in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems is mandatory. Strong interpersonal skills for partnership development and professional presentation skills for reporting are also required. Basic project management skills are an asset.
Skills
Core competencies include integrity, commitment, cultural diversity, change embracing, results achievement, accountability, professional expertise, analytical and strategic thinking, and teamwork. Functional skills involve organizational leadership, operational effectiveness, communication, financial resource management, and aligning HR with strategy. Managerial competencies include engaging staff and partners, leading and empowering people, and decision-making.