Organizational Setting and Work Relationships
The Global Financial Service (GFS) within UNHCR’s Division of Financial and Administrative Management (DFAM) of UNHCR is responsible for maintaining, monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on the statutory and management financial information recorded in UNHCR’s accounts and used in various reports, including UNHCR’s annual financial statements. GFS also provides transaction processing and payment services to an increasing number of operational locations with a view to further enhancing the speed and efficiency of the related processes.
The Central Accounting Unit (CAU) plays an essential role in ensuring that the Organization’s financial statements comply with UN Financial Regulations, the UNHCR Financial Rules and International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) and strives to strengthen the quality of financial management and control in UNHCR.
The Accounts Receivable and Donor Reporting (ARDR) Unit processes incoming deposits and provides related technical support to the field operations, accounts for revenue adjustments, raises bills for miscellaneous income, coordinates the accounts closure and audit for AR and revenue, compiles financial reports to UNHCR’s donors, which requires active liaison with colleagues from the Division of External Relations (DER) and the respective field offices.
The Accounts Payable (AP) Unit processes AP vouchers and central payments for UNHCR and several field offices, provides related technical support to the Field and coordinates the accounts closure and audit for AP and expenses.
Under the general direction of the relevant Head of Unit, the incumbent manages and oversees global accounting processes within the Area of Responsibility (AoR) and contributes to analysing and reporting on the corporate-level accounting results of UNHCR in compliance with the UN Financial Regulations, UNHCR’s rules and IPSAS, as applicable. The incumbent supervises national professional and general service staff to achieve the overall deliverables of the unit. S/he frequently interacts with other functional units within and outside the GFS, e.g., in the Treasury Service of DFAM, the Personnel Administration Section (PAS) and the Global Payroll Section (GPS) of the Division of Human Resources (DHR) and other HQ divisions to ensure the accuracy and effectiveness of financial accounting and reporting at UNHCR and maintains frequent contact with managers and finance staff in field locations to advise them on accounting and financial reporting issues.
All UNHCR staff members are accountable to perform their duties as reflected in their job description. They do so within their delegated authorities, in line with the regulatory framework of UNHCR which includes the UN Charter, UN Staff Regulations and Rules, UNHCR Policies and Administrative Instructions as well as relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, staff members are required to discharge their responsibilities in a manner consistent with the core, functional, cross-functional and managerial competencies and UNHCR’s core values of professionalism, integrity and respect for diversity.
Duties
- Oversee the accounting procedures within a specified area or areas (e.g., General Ledger, Fixed Assets, Inventory, Cost Accounting, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, etc.), ensuring adherence to IPSAS standards, UNHCR and UN Financial Regulations and Rules, policies, and procedures.
- Oversee the recording of transactions and approve those.
- Ensure uniformity, accuracy, and compliance of accounting data globally related to the area(s) of responsibility.
- Lead a dedicated team of accountants, promoting a culture focused on excellence, innovation, and ongoing learning.
- Establish and enforce strict quality assurance protocols for accounting records and reports, instituting regular reviews to verify reliability and compliance of the data.
- Work closely with other team members and address specialised accounting needs within the organization’s related financial and accounting processes.
- Manage the preparation and presentation of detailed reports and audits related to the assigned accounting portfolio, ensuring transparency and accountability for stakeholders.
- Provide accounting analysis and financial reports to supervisors.
- Contribute to the periodic closure of UNHCR’s global accounts, the reconciliation of the general ledger to subledgers, enforce quality control, ensure timely account reconciliations and regularly review open transactions and suspense accounts within the area(s) of responsibility.
- Make proposals for the continuous improvement of accounting and financial reporting mechanisms, including the streamlining of financial systems and procedures.
- Identify training needs, provide training on accounting matters, and recommend or develop training modules, aiming at the development of financial management skills, in coordination with DFAM’s Strategic Management and Field Support Section and the Global Learning and Development Centre (GLDC),
- Assist the provision and planning of activities for the rollout of new processes or systems; in close liaison with DFAM’s System Administration Section (SAS) and other divisions.
- Support the identification and management of risks and seek to seize opportunities impacting objectives in the area of responsibility. Ensure decision making in risk based in the functional area of work. Raise risks, issues and concerns to a supervisor or to relevant functional colleague(s).
- Perform other related duties as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Years of Experience / Degree Level
For P2/NOB – 3 years relevant experience with Undergraduate degree; or 2 years relevant experience with Graduate degree; or 1 year relevant experience with Doctorate degree
Field(s) of Education
Accounting; Finance; Public Administration; Business Administration; Economics
or other relevant field.
(Field(s) of Education marked with an asterisk* are essential)
Certificates and/or Licenses
Accounting; Certified Public Accountant;
Chartered Accountant (CA); Association of Certified Charted Accountants (ACCA)
(Certificates and Licenses marked with an asterisk* are essential)
Relevant Job Experience
Essential
Work experience in overseeing corporate level accounting processes and/or general ledger accounting. Good knowledge of, and experience in working with international accounting and auditing standards, with practical experience in the audit process and/or in financial statements preparation. Working experience with accrual accounting (such as IPSAS or IFRS). Experience with financial modules of a major Enterprise Resource Planning system (such as PeopleSoft, SAP or Oracle).
Desirable
Knowledge of UNHCR specific systems (such as Oracle Fusion Cloud ERP). Knowledge of United Nations financial rules and procedures.
Functional Skills
FI-Financial Accrual Accounting under internationally accepted standards (IFRS,IPSAS,etc);
FI-Financial Accounting – Modified cash-based accounting as per international standards;
FI-ERP Financial Management (SAP, Oracle, PeopleSoft, Workday and other);
DM-Data Collection and Analysis;
EL-Monitoring and Evaluation;
(Functional Skills marked with an asterisk* are essential)
Language Requirements
For International Professional and Field Service jobs: Knowledge of English and the UN working language of the duty station if not English.
For National Professional jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English and local language.
For General Service jobs: Knowledge of English and/or UN working language of the duty station if not English.
Competency Requirements
All jobs at UNHCR require six core competencies and may also require managerial competencies and/or cross-functional competencies. The six core competencies are listed below.
Core Competencies:
Accountability
Communication
Organizational Awareness
Teamwork & Collaboration
Commitment to Continuous Learning
Client & Result Orientation
Managerial Competencies:
Empowering and Building Trust
Managing Resources
Judgement and Decision Making
Cross-Functional Competencies:
Analytical Thinking
Negotiation and Conflict Resolution
Planning and Organizing
All UNHCR workforce members must individually and collectively, contribute towards a working environment where each person feels safe, and empowered to perform their duties. This includes by demonstrating no tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment including sexual harassment, sexism, gender inequality, discrimination, and abuse of power.
As individuals and as managers, all must be proactive in preventing and responding to inappropriate conduct, support ongoing dialogue on these matters and speaking up and seeking guidance and support from relevant UNHCR resources when these issues arise.
This is a Standard Job Description for all UNHCR jobs with this job title and grade level. The Operational Context may contain additional essential and/or desirable qualifications relating to the specific operation and/or position. Any such requirements are incorporated by reference in this Job Description and will be considered for the screening, shortlisting and selection of candidates.
Desired Candidate Profile
• Progressively responsible experience in finance, accounting, or related areas, with a strong background in accounts payable in an international or non-profit organization is essential.
• Expert use of Accounts Payable module in ERP systems (e.g., Cloud ERP, SAP) is essential.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with stakeholders at various levels, both internally and externally.
• Strong knowledge of accrual accounting (such as IPSAS or IFRS), financial reporting and auditing principles.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the capacity to work collaboratively across different departments and geographical locations, fostering teamwork and a positive working environment.
• Ability to operate in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and adapt to changes while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to address complex reconciliation issues, identify root causes, and develop solutions that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of financial operations.
International candidates with Hungarian residence permit are eligible to apply
Additional information:
Candidates must be legally present in Hungary at the time of application, recruitment and hire.
Recruitment as a UNHCR staff member and engagement under a UNHCR affiliate scheme or as an intern is subject to proof of vaccination against Covid-19
Remuneration:
In case of appointment, a competitive compensation and benefits package is offered.
Benefits:
Annual leave: UNHCR staff members holding a temporary appointment will accrue annual leave at the rate of 2.5 working days for each full calendar months of service (i.e. 30 working days per year).
Pension system: Staff members holding a fixed-term appointment will become participants in the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund (UNJSPF).
Health insurance plan: locally recruited staff members in Budapest will be enrolled in the Medical Insurance Plan (MIP). The coverage is also optionally available for eligible family members.
Shortlisted candidates may be required to sit for a test. No late applications will be accepted. UNHCR is committed to diversity and welcomes applications from qualified candidates regardless of disability, gender identity, marital or civil partnership status, race, colour or ethnic and national origins, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. UNHCR does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing, training or any other fees).
Required languages (expected Overall ability is at least B2 level):
English
,
,
Desired languages
,
,
Operational context
Occupational Safety and Health Considerations:
To view occupational safety and health considerations for this duty station, please visit this link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel
Nature of Position:
The Accounts Payable Unit (APU) is an integral part of the Accounts and Financial Service Section (AFS) within the Global Finance Service (GFS) of the Division of Financial and Administrative Management at UNHCR. The Unit is responsible for timely and accurate recording of payable transactions and payment processing ensuring conformity with UNHCR Financial Rules and Regulations. The incumbent frequently interacts with functional specialists in Procurement and Contract Management Services (PCMS), Supply Management and Logistics Service (SMLS) and with field offices to provide technical guidance and support on all aspects of invoice processing.
Role Overview
Under the general supervision of the Head of Global Accounts Payable and Accounts Payable Invoicing Lead withing the Accounts Payable Unit, the Associate Finance Officer (NOB) is responsible for managing the recording and approving of accounts payable transactions at UNHCR’s HQ in Budapest. This includes monitoring and analysing pending and unprocessed transactions, with a particular focus on global payables operations within a centralized operational model.
The position needs a strong expertise in managing large-volume accounts payable operations and the ability to collaborate effectively with external and internal stakeholders.
This supervisory position includes leading a dedicated team of accounts payable assistants and promoting a culture focused on excellence, innovation, and ongoing learning. The incumbent will actively contribute to the design and implementation of new technologies and processes on a global scale, including the redesign of future AP processes under a centralized model.
Key Responsibilities
Monitor invoicing operations under the responsibility of the Unit ensuring accuracy, processing efficiency and compliance with financial policies.
Lead and coach the team of invoice processors by actively promoting innovation and continuous improvement. Identify training needs and conduct training sessions to enhance the team’s skills and knowledge in accounts payable processes and systems.
Manage the preparation and presentation of detailed reports and audits related to the accounts payable portfolio, ensuring transparency, accuracy and accountability for stakeholders.
Oversee accounting procedures of the AP segment ensuring adherence to IPSAS standards, UNHCR and UN Financial Regulations and Rules, and internal policies and procedures. Ensure the uniformity, accuracy, and compliance of accounting data globally.
Contribute to the periodic closure of accounts payable module globally, including the reconciliation of the AP subledger to general ledger. Enforce quality control measures, and regularly review open AP transactions. Conduct periodic risk and internal control assessments to identify potential audit, compliance, or financial risks.
Interact with external auditors and liaise with field offices during the Board of Auditors interim and final audit to provide information and clarify audit queries in respect of accounts payable processes.
Identify and implement innovative solutions to effectively assist field offices and other departments in resolving complex accounts payable challenges encountered in diverse global operations. Adapt to varying financial environments and system limitations, while ensuring strict adherence to established policies, procedures, accounting framework and applicable rules.
Assist in planning and facilitating the rollout of new processes or systems within a centralized operational model. Act in close liaison with DFAM’s System Administration Section (SAS) and other divisions; ensuring efficiency, standardization, and alignment with organizational goals. Develop and maintain accounts payable SOPs, procedures and training materials for global use, ensuring all team members are well-informed and trained.
Proactively identify opportunities for process improvements and suggest changes to management and implement approved enhancements to optimize efficiency and effectiveness.
Communicate effectively with peers and counterparts in Supply Management and Field Operations to resolve transactional issues and exceptions focusing on results and efficiency.
Contribut to the overall success of the Accounts Payable Unit and the organization.
Living and Working Conditions:
Additional Qualifications
Skills
DM-Data Collection and Analysis, EL-Monitoring and Evaluation, FI-ERP Financial Management (SAP, Oracle, PeopleSoft, Workday and other), FI-Financial Accounting – Modified cash-based accounting as per international standards, FI-Financial Accrual Accounting under internationally accepted standards (IFRS,IPSAS,etc)
Education
Bachelor of Arts (BA): Accounting, Bachelor of Arts (BA): Business Administration, Bachelor of Arts (BA): Economics, Bachelor of Arts (BA): Finance, Bachelor of Arts (BA): Public Administration
Certifications
Accounting – Other, Association of Chartered Certified Accountant – ACCA, Certified Public Accountant – Other, Chartered Accountant (CA) – Other
Work Experience
Competencies
Accountability, Analytical thinking, Client & results orientation, Commitment to continuous learning, Communication, Empowering & building trust, Judgement & decision making, Managing resource, Negotiation & conflict resolution, Organizational awareness, Planning & organizing, Teamwork & collaboration
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Compendium
Additional Information
Functional clearance
This position requires Functional Clearance
How to apply
For a full job description and to apply, interested candidates are requested to
The UNHCR workforce consists of many diverse nationalities, cultures, languages and opinions. UNHCR seeks to sustain and strengthen this diversity to ensure equal opportunities as well as an inclusive working environment for its entire workforce. Applications are encouraged from all qualified candidates without distinction on grounds of race, colour, sex, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation and gender identity.
Please note that UNHCR does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process (application, interview, meeting, travelling, processing, training or any other fees).
Closing date of receipt of applications: 2 October 2024
