Finance Associate

The Finance Associate post is located in the UNFPA Moldova Country Office in Chisinau. The incumbent supports the Operations Manager in finance and budget management, travel management, and ensures effective and efficient application of the Country Office's resources.

Responsibilities

• Assist Operations Manager in strategic management of Country Office Financial Resources.
• Contribute to strategic and efficient management of financial resources through planning and tracking of available resources, exercising appropriate financial controls and ensuring corporate financial policies are met.
• Monitor and evaluate effectiveness of finance processes within the Country Office and ensure compliance with UNFPA Policies and Procedures, work practices, and processes; drive changes for improvement where necessary.
• Interpret financial policies and procedures and provide guidance and training to Country Office personnel.
• Assist in preparation of programme and operating budgets, ensure financial transactions comply with UNFPA financial rules and procedures, propose procedures to improve internal controls and efficiency, and respond to audit issues.
• Compile data for financial performance analysis and support oversight activities.
• Provide accurate and updated financial information and reports to Operations Manager including statements, account reconciliations, and balance sheets.
• Process financial transactions including payments, claims, cost recovery, billing, and overtime payments timely and accurately.
• Ensure effective financial recording and reporting system including preparation and submission of monthly, quarterly accountability checklists and year-end certifications.
• Review and monitor charges for common services and cost recovery, representing UNFPA’s interest in related negotiations and agreements.
• Assist in implementation of audit recommendations and improvement of overall office compliance and accountability, including risk and fraud mitigation.
• Act as ERP focal person and perform finance user functions and capacity building for Country Office staff and projects.
• Handle finance and banking related matters and answer related queries.
• Assist in monitoring and follow-up of funds transferred to Implementing Partners through direct National Implementation modality.
• Ensure financial transactions with Implementing Partners are processed accurately and timely, reviewing supporting documents and ensuring compliance with policies.
• Review and assess statements of expenditures from Implementing Partners for accuracy and compliance.
• Perform periodic spot checks on financial records of Implementing Partners and ensure timely follow-up of findings and recommendations.
• Review Implementing Partners’ internal controls related to financial management and procurement.
• Follow up with Implementing Partners on timely implementation of audit recommendations.
• Assist in strengthening performance of administrative and financial staff of Implementing Partners through training.
• Assist in efficient travel management and monitoring of the Country Office.
• Prepare and maintain up-to-date travel plan securing timely approval.
• Ensure smooth travel processes, reviewing and adjusting SOPs to maximize efficiency and provide policy advice.
• Maintain contact with UNFPA Travel Agent and UNDP to ensure timely and quality services.
• Undertake travel monitoring and reconciliation, compiling expenditure and analytical reports for management.
• Process related cost recovery and billing timely.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Requirements

• Completed Secondary Level Education required.
• First level university degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Management or similar discipline is desirable.
• Minimum of seven (7) years of relevant experience in finance and budget management.
• Proven experience and track record in successfully managing and implementing financial policies, processes and systems in development organizations at national or international level.
• Proficiency in current Microsoft Office applications (especially Microsoft Excel and Word).
• Experience in using ERP system (e.g. PeopleSoft, Oracle, SAP) or similar computerized applications.
• Ability to produce analytical reports and write clearly and concisely.
• Working experience with UN organization is desirable.
• Fluency in English and Romanian is required.
• Working knowledge of one or more additional languages relevant for Moldova, including Russian, Bulgarian, Gagauzian, Romani, Ukrainian or sign language would be an asset.

Skills

• Finance Management
• Budget Management
• Financial Policy Implementation
• Financial Systems
• MS Excel
• MS Word
• ERP Systems
• Analytical Reporting
• Report Writing

Languages

English, Romanian, Russian, Bulgarian, Gagauzian, Romani, Ukrainian, sign language