Project Finance Specialist
Organizational Context
The Finance Group at UNOPS acts as a strategic partner and fiduciary advisor, ensuring transparent and effective resource management. It defines financial strategy, policies, and systems, and leads corporate budgeting for long-term sustainability. The Project Finance Specialist, reporting to a Project Finance Advisor, is a senior team member contributing to the Group's vision of being a business partner to UNOPS projects, providing expert financial advice and oversight.
Job Purpose
The Project Finance Specialist is integral to a centre of excellence, delivering seamless, appropriate, and proactive project-specific financial tools, guidance, and support. This role collaborates closely with UNOPS delivery functions and the Partnerships Group on project setup, implementation, and closure. A key aspect of the purpose is to provide comprehensive support and outreach on all project finance-related matters, ensuring financial integrity and compliance throughout the project lifecycle. The specialist advises internal and external senior stakeholders on financial frameworks, cost recovery, global agreements, financial reporting, and audit support, thereby enabling UNOPS projects to operate effectively and sustainably.
Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include representing the Finance Group in partner negotiations on financial matters, reviewing and approving financial conditions in agreements, and preparing partner-specific process guidance. The specialist will provide inputs for and support project audits, act as an approver per delegation of authority, and oversee internal and external financial reporting for client projects and the cost recovery model. This includes ensuring accurate general ledger reconciliation, developing and maintaining financial reporting templates, and supporting system development related to project finance. Additionally, the role provides finance support throughout the service life cycle, including agreement review, system setup, accounting entry approval, financial challenge resolution, and financial record closure. The specialist also contributes to the development and implementation of UNOPS’ cost recovery model, ensuring consistent application of principles and supporting refunds. People management, knowledge management, and innovation in project finance practices are also key duties.
Work Experience
Required experience includes working in financial management and demonstrating proficiency with collaboration tools (e.g., MS Office, G-Suite) and web-based management systems. Highly desirable experience includes working in a field location, supervisory experience, and experience with project management financial aspects (budgeting, reporting). Familiarity with the UNOPS financial model and partner relations is also a strong asset.
Skills
Budget Management, Budget Monitoring, Financial Advisory, Financial Regulation, Negotiation, Project Finance, Finance Management