Chief, Accounts, Finance Branch, Division for Management Services
Organizational Context
UNFPA is the lead United Nations agency dedicated to delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The Chief, Accounts position is within the Finance Branch of the Division for Management Services, responsible for global financial operations, accounting policies, and treasury services. This role ensures financial systems align with UNFPA's mission and regulations, supporting the organization's strategic plan and mandate.
Job Purpose
The Chief, Accounts will lead and oversee the Data Management Unit, Statutory Reporting Unit, and Revenue and Donor Reporting Unit. Reporting directly to the Chief, Finance Branch, this role is crucial for establishing and maintaining an efficient and effective financial operations framework. This includes developing and implementing policies, systems, and processes aligned with UNFPA's mission and regulations. The position ensures an agile operating environment by fostering partnerships with various internal and external units, providing guidance to field offices, and contributing to knowledge transfer on accounting matters.
Responsibilities
The Chief, Accounts provides strategic advice and participates in the Senior Management Team, contributing to the Finance Branch's strategic direction and annual workplan. Responsibilities include overseeing and managing assigned teams, focusing on performance and professional development. The role involves maintaining key partnerships, providing guidance to field offices, and enhancing the branch's responsiveness. A significant focus is placed on innovation, policy, process, and systems efficiency, ensuring ERP systems are updated for IPSAS standards and maintaining/updating accounting policies. The position leads financial accounting, period-end closures, and the preparation of UNFPA's financial statements in accordance with IPSAS, managing external reporting and auditor engagement. Treasury management, including cash flow, banking, and investments, is also overseen, alongside business continuity and ERP system administration.
Work Experience
Requires at least 10 years of progressive experience in financial accounting and statutory reporting within multinational organizations, with a minimum of 5 years in a supervisory role. Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing financial policies and procedures, managing change, interpreting accounting standards (IPSAS/IFRS), and managing ERP systems is essential. Experience within the UN system, particularly in complex development and humanitarian settings, is desirable.
Skills
Key skills include technical accounting policy and implementation, statutory financial reporting, ERP system management, team leadership, and change management. Managerial competencies encompass strategic vision, stakeholder engagement, developing people, and decision-making. Behavioral competencies include integrity, accountability, professional expertise, analytical thinking, teamwork, and impactful communication.