UNICEF seeks to recruit an accounting & finance officer, (NO-2), Nouakchott, Mauritanie # 86154

UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. To save their lives. To defend their rights. To help them fulfill their potential.

Across 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, every day, to build a better world for everyone.

And we never give up.

For every child, [insert tagline]

Mauritania, officially named the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, is a West African country. It has borders with Algeria, Western Sahara, Mali and Senegal, and access to the Atlantic Ocean, which look like straight lines because they were drawn by a colonizing country, France. Its capital is Nouakchott.

This country is very arid. A large part of its territory is desert, which explains the small number of the population despite its large surface area. The population density, in terms of the number of people per square kilometer, is low (about 3 people per km²).

UNICEF mission is to promote the rights of every child, everywhere, in everything the organization does – in programmes, in advocacy and in operations.

 

How can you make a difference?

Under the general supervision of the Operations Manager, ensure all finance VISION transactions are undertaken in line with the relevant accounting and policy requirements and interpretation. Contribute to the creation and improvement SOPs in line with VISION requirements and organizational needs.

 

Summary of key functions/accountabilities:

1. Certify the appropriate, accurate and timely processing (including VISION) and recording of disbursements and payments, e.g. invoices, travel advances & claims, contract services, DCT etc.
2. Provide relevant technical input for the effective and efficient management of VISION transactions for the office.
3. Ensure that accurate and consistent interpretation and application of VISION procedures are implemented to support operational work of Mauritania office. Recommend improvements to SOPs for more efficiency.
4. Control and operate bank accounts in accordance with UN/UNICEF financial rules and regulations and local banking practices. Provide up-to-date information on the cash position or status of such accounts. Reconcile Bank statements and keep abreast of all procedures and regulations regarding the maintenance of bank accounts, exchange and interest rates, etc.
5. Maintain cash books, including control of disbursement and balancing of books and ledger work.
6. Approve payments, analyze and clear open items (monthly) and ensure timely financial reporting using Dashboard and other information management tools.
7. Implement regular capacity building activities for Finance team members to ensure Quality operations and VISION Transactions. Develop a team culture that embodies client service.
8. Prepare and financial analysis data for budget estimates and financial planning.

To qualify as an advocate for every child you will have…

• An advanced university degree (Master’s) in accounting, business administration, economics or financial management and membership – or enrolled for membership – of recognized professional accountancy body.
  *A first University Degree in a relevant field combined with 2 additional years of professional experience may be accepted in lieu of an Advanced University Degree.
• A minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in finance, accounting and/or other related fields highly desirable.
• Developing country work experience and/or familiarity with emergency is considered an asset.
• Fluency in French and English is required. Knowledge of a local language is an asset.

 

For every Child, you demonstrate…

UNICEF’s core values of Commitment, Diversity and Integrity and core competencies in Communication, Working with People and Drive for Results.

The technical competencies required for this post are….

View our competency framework here

UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities, to apply to become a part of the organization.

 

Remarks:

Mobility is a condition of international professional employment with UNICEF and an underlying premise of the international civil service.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process.

Apply here