Operations & Finance Specialist
Organizational Context
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) Global Portfolios Office (GPO), based in Geneva, supports sustainable development and climate action. It partners with governments and UN agencies, offering project management, fund management, and HR support. The Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR) Secretariat, hosted by UNOPS, mobilizes public and private finance for coral reef conservation and resilience.
Job Purpose
The Operations & Finance Specialist provides essential operational and financial support to the Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR) Secretariat, reporting to the Deputy Director. This role is crucial for the effective planning and execution of both Secretariat and programmatic operations. The Specialist ensures smooth delivery by managing HR, travel, and procurement processes, and by diligently monitoring the financial status of the Secretariat, the overall Fund budget, and individual portfolio projects. This oversight contributes directly to the GFCR's mission of enhancing coral reef ecosystems, communities, and economies through innovative finance solutions.
Responsibilities
The role encompasses four key areas: Programme Operations, Fund Operations, Financial Management and Reporting, and Administrative Support. For Programme Operations, the Specialist guides recipient organizations on operational requirements, supports due diligence, and ensures workplan implementation aligns with UNOPS Project Management Methodology and policies. In Fund Operations, they coordinate with the Administrative Agent for grant transfers, oversee partner due diligence, and contribute to reporting. Financial Management involves leading the review of partner expenditure reports, consolidating financial inputs, coordinating budget development, and monitoring financial projections to ensure compliance. Administrative Support includes liaising with UNOPS for procurement, HR, travel, and logistics, and assisting with travel planning.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of relevant experience in operations, financial reporting, project management support, or related functions is required. Essential experience includes budget management, using office software and ERP systems, developing workplans, financial reporting, and coordinating with diverse stakeholders. Experience with UN system or multilateral agencies is desirable.
Skills
Budget Management, Compliance Management, Human Resources Management, Internal Audit, Operations Management, Procurement, Project Management, Reporting & Analysis