SSA - Health Sector Improvement Program, Finance Assistant, Papua New Guinea

Organizational Context

This role operates under the WHO in Papua New Guinea, supporting the Health Sector Improvement Program (HSIP) within the National Department of Health. The position provides crucial operational and administrative support at the provincial level, focusing on financial management, documentation, and coordination with Provincial Health Authorities to ensure effective implementation of health activities.

Job Purpose

The Finance Assistant's primary purpose is to provide essential finance, administrative, and operational support to the Health Sector Improvement Program (HSIP) Trust Account. This role is critical for strengthening the timely implementation of provincially funded health activities, ensuring robust financial accountability, meticulous documentation, accurate reporting, and strict compliance with WHO and donor requirements. By managing fund transfers, acquittals, and related financial records, and coordinating with various stakeholders, the position directly contributes to the effective use of funds and the overall success of the HSIP.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include supporting the processing and follow-up of Direct Financial Cooperation (DFC) agreements and related documentation to ensure timely fund release for approved activities. The role involves coordinating with National Department of Health program officers and Provincial Health Authorities (PHAs) on fund availability and transfers. A significant duty is following up with PHAs on acquittals, supporting documents, and outstanding financial records. The Finance Assistant will also support coordination with WHO program teams and provincial finance officers on FACE Forms and DFC documentation, participate in provincial monitoring visits and spot-checks, assist in documenting findings, and support staff in maintaining records per WHO and donor requirements. Additionally, the role involves processing provincial fund transfers, raising requisitions, processing payment claims, and assisting with HSIP Trust Account desktop reviews.

Work Experience

Essential: Minimum of two years of progressive experience in finance, administrative, or operational support. Experience supporting government institutions, development partners, UN agencies, NGOs, or donor-funded programs is required. Desirable: Experience with WHO/United Nations or other international organizations, and experience supporting program implementation at national and provincial levels.

Skills

Strong organizational, coordination, and time management skills. Ability to monitor progress and follow up on multiple actions. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail. Good written and verbal communication skills. Ability to maintain organized documentation and evidence management systems. Collaborative work style. Knowledge of administrative and financial principles of large organizations. Ability to compile, review, and maintain financial records and prepare reports. Excellent interpersonal skills.

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