Organizational Setting

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through the FAO Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to MORE efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems, for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind.

FAO’s commitment to environmental sustainability is integral to our strategic objectives and operations.

The Finance Division (CSF) recommends and administers financial policies and procedures that meet the highest professional standards; keeps accounts that accurately record financial activities and meet the requirements of internal and external audits; reports the financial status of the Organization and its activities to senior management, governing bodies and resources partners; ensures the safe custody of the Organization’s financial assets; oversees financial operations wherever performed in the Organization; and ensures the timely recording of receipts and disbursements in accordance with established policies and procedures.

The position is located in the Finance Division (CSF) at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy.

Reporting Lines

The Finance Officer reports to a Senior Finance Officer within CSF.

Technical Focus

Management of accounting and reporting functions within the Finance Division, working with General Ledger, Donor Reports, Treasury and Banking functions and/or Global Finance Management support.

Key Results

The collection and analysis of financial information to support the delivery of various financial services/activities.

Key Functions

• Collects, reviews for accuracy and analyses financial information and/or internal financial controls to support the delivery of various financial services/activities.

• Analyses financial reports, explains variances and/or financial regulations and takes appropriate action.

• Participates in the development of improved work methods and procedures.

• Responds to requests for assistance from managers and staff at headquarters and the Decentralized Offices.

• Collaborates in the development of training tools and materials and the organization of training workshops/seminars, etc.

• Participates in special project/work teams.

Specific Functions

• Prepares and analyses FAO policies and procedures.

• Assists in the operational management of the General Ledger.

• Assists in the review of funding agreements with resource partners and ensuring their compliance with the Organization’s financial rules and regulations.

• Provides financial management support to project budget holders during project implementation and closure, including on the preparation and submission of financial reports to resource partners.

• Supports the preparation and revision of accounting policies.

• Supports in the Global Finance Management of non-headquarters operations.

• Supports in managing the treasury and banking operations.

• Participates in the preparation of documents to be presented to the Governing Bodies and other oversight bodies.

• Performs ad-hoc accounting and financial analysis.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

• Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in accounting, finance, business administration or a related field and three years of relevant experience in finance, accounting and/or business analysis OR a first level university degree in accounting, finance, business administration or a related field and five years of relevant experience and completion of professional qualification in accountancy (CA, CPA, ACCA) or investment professional (CFA).

• Three years of relevant experience in finance, accounting and/or business analysis with significant understanding of Oracle.

• Working knowledge (proficiency – level C) of English and intermediate knowledge (intermediate proficiency – level B) of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish).

Competencies

• Results Focus

• Teamwork

• Communication

• Building Effective Relationships

• Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills

• Work experience in more than one location or area of work, particularly in field positions.

• Relevant experience in accounting and in managing accounting functions within a computerized accounting environment, especially Oracle.

• Experience and knowledge of accounting and finance operations in a major organization.