Finance Officer (P-2)

Position and Grade:	Finance Officer (P-2)
Organizational Unit:	General Accounts Payable Section Division of Budget and Finance Department of Management
Duty Station:	Vienna, Austria
Issue Date:	4 October 2013
Application Deadline:	1 November 2013
Type/Duration of Appointment:	Fixed term, 3 years (subject to a probationary period of 1 year)

Organizational Setting

The Department of Management (MT) provides a ‘platform of services’ that serves as a foundation for the successful delivery of the IAEA’s scientific and technical programmes. Its mission statement is as follows: “MT is a partner and a business enabler that champions change and efficiency, leveraging a common purpose”. Thus, among other support activities, it assists a scientific manager in recruiting the right expert, helps a technical officer coordinate the purchase of radiation equipment, works with the press to help clarify the technically complex work of the IAEA, and ensures that all Board documents are translated and distributed on a timely basis to Member States. The Division of Budget and Finance (MTBF) manages the financial resources essential for full implementation of the IAEA’s scientific and technical programmes. The Division provides financial services and solutions for programme budgeting, treasury, payments, payroll, financial accounting and reporting to support the IAEA’s mandate. The General Accounts Payable Section (GAPS) is responsible for processing all payments related to the procurement of goods and services and other miscellaneous expenditures needed for the implementation of the IAEA's programmatic activities. It also assists in resolving payment related issues and in recording the disbursements made by IAEA offices and by UNDP on behalf of the IAEA.

Main purpose

As a member of a team led by the Section Head, the Finance Officer ensures the accurate and timely processing of payments related to the procurement of goods and services, and authorizes payments within delegated limits in compliance with the existing financial regulations, rules, policies, procedures and accounting practices. He/she contributes knowledge of best practices and background research to the development of policies and procedures, as well as follow-up on the status of implementation of audit recommendations.

Role

The Finance Officer is (a) a team member, working together and overseeing the work of other members of the Section to ensure accurate and timely processing of financial transactions in an effective manner and in compliance with established procedures, and (b) a focal point for staff members throughout the IAEA, external counterparts and commercial vendors, providing advice and guidance to facilitate the processing of the financial transactions.

Partnerships

The Finance Officer builds collaborative working relationships with staff at all levels in the IAEA, as well as counterparts at UNDP and commercial vendors, to provide an efficient and effective service.

Functions / Key Results Expected

Establish work priorities and coordinates the accounts payable activities in consultation with Section Head to ensure that the assigned work is performed efficiently. Ensure that adequate internal control systems are in place or being implemented and make recommendations for any adjustments, when necessary. Analyse reports on a regular basis to identify any exceptions, ensure integrity of financial data and take any corrective action on a timely basis. Plan and perform all periodic and year-end closure activities for the Accounts Payable area, including preparation and posting of related accounting entries. Review complex transactions and provide guidance on application of financial rules to particular transactions. Make recommendations to the Section Head on ways to improve the accounts payable operations and provide support in testing and implementing proposed solutions. Provide support in the development and implementation of payment policies and procedures. Provide guidance and support to staff on relevant International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) related issues to ensure compliance.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Professional skills: Knowledge of financial regulations, rules and procedures and effectiveness in their interpretation, preferably in an international organization. Experience in implementing IPSAS is an advantage. Advanced computer skills, including spread sheets and database applications. Hands-on experience in the use of an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system (preferably Oracle) and reporting tools. Ability to communicate tactfully with staff at all levels in the organization as well as with external counterparts. High degree of accuracy to ensure the correctness of financial information. Demonstrated ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate and monitor as assigned work plan. Communication skills: Ability to prepare reports and conduct presentations on key issues by clearly formulating positions on issues and making and defending recommendations. Ability to communicate tactfully with staff at all levels in the organization as well as with external counterparts. Interpersonal skills: Ability to work in a multicultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.

Education, Experience and Language Skills

University degree (preferably an advanced degree) in accounting, finance or business administration. Minimum of two years of relevant experience, including in finance and accounting, at least one of which is at international level. Fluency in both written and spoken English. Knowledge of other official IAEA languages (i.e. Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish) an advantage.

Remuneration

The IAEA offers an attractive remuneration package including a tax-free annual net base salary starting at US $46 730 (subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance), a variable post adjustment which currently amounts to US $29 674*, dependency benefits, rental subsidy, education grant, relocation and repatriation expenses; 6 weeks' annual vacation, home leave,pension plan and health insurance. How to apply to the IAEA Complete an Online Application * Subject to change without notice

Applications from qualified women and candidates from developing countries are encouraged Applicants should be aware that IAEA staff members are international civil servants and may not accept instructions from any other authority. The IAEA is committed to applying the highest ethical standards in carrying out its mandate. As part of the United Nations common system, the IAEA subscribes to the following core ethical standards (or values): Integrity, Professionalism and Respect for diversity. Staff members may be assigned to any location. The IAEA retains the discretion not to make any appointment to this vacancy, to make an appointment at a lower grade or with a different contract type, or to make an appointment with a modified job description or for shorter duration than indicated above. Testing may be part of the recruitment process.