Senior Advisor, Accounting Operations & Statutory Reporting

OBJECTIVE OF THE OFFICE/DEPARTMENT

This requisition is for employment at the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)/Regional Office of the World Health Organization (WHO)

The Department of Financial Management and Reporting (FRM) oversees the financial transactions of the Organization by establishing its financial regulations and rules, as well as the accounting policies and procedures; processes the disbursements of funds; prepares the financial statements of the Organization including the reporting of regular funds and extra-budgetary funds; and monitors the inflow of funding and utilization of these resources; and is responsible for investments and banking, financial analysis, the monitoring of the field offices’ financial administration, Staff Health Insurance, and the processes and systems involved with FRM’s area of responsibility.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

Under the general supervision of the Director of Administration (AM), and the direct supervision of the Director, Financial Resources

Management (FRM), the incumbent is responsible for, but not necessarily limited to, the following assigned duties:

Strategic Advisory Financial Reporting:

• Plan, develop, direct and control the Organization’s financial and accounting activities; provide business intelligence and serve as key strategic advisor to senior management on financial matters, influencing decision-making and organizational strategy;
• Lead the development and implementation of robust financial policies and strategies, ensuring alignment with PAHO’s mission and compliance with international standards;
• Provide authoritative advice on accounting policies and practices, representing the Director, FRM in various forums and addressing audit observations;
• Oversee and guide the preparation and review of PAHO’s financial reports, including the Director’s Biennial Financial Report and Interim Report;
• Lead the year-end closure of books-of-accounts, ensuring compliance with International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS);

Financial Oversight:

• Conduct thorough reviews of financial accounts, including monthly aging of sundry accounts, reconciling interoffice and Headquarters bank accounts, and managing reserves;
• Ensure accuracy and integrity in financial reporting and reconciliation processes;
• Conduct in-depth financial analyses, providing monthly management reports that offer insights into PAHO’s financial position and performance;
• Utilize financial data for forecasting and strategic planning, aiding in organizational decision-making;
• Liaise with internal and external auditors; ensure compliance with audit findings and recommendations

Process Efficiency and Automation:

• Lead initiatives to identify and implement automation in accounting processes, reducing manual workload and enhancing operational efficiency;
• Champion the integration of advanced technological solutions and continuous improvement in financial processes;
• Manage the implementation or upgrade of the Workday ERP system, ensuring optimal configuration and alignment with PAHO’s financial regulations and rules;
• Oversee the design and adoption of accounting-related software and databases across the organization;

Team Leadership:

• Lead and mentor the accounting team, promoting a collaborative and high-performing work environment;
• Establish and manage Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for the accounting team, aligning them with PAHO’s strategic goals;
• Conduct regular performance reviews, fostering a culture of accountability, excellence, and professional growth;
• Develop and implement training programs for staff, enhancing skills in financial management and accounting standards;
• Provide a stable managerial framework that demonstrates credibility, trust and value to Member States, stakeholders and Partners;
• Provide intellectual and managerial leadership to guide and motivate staff to work in a multicultural environment; promote a culture of ethical behavior and integrity in accordance with the Organization’s Code of Ethical Principles and Conduct in order to ensure a culture of respect, responsibility, accountability, and compliance;

Perform other related duties, as assigned

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Essential: A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or business administration and a master’s degree in international finance, business administration, accounting, finance or any other field related to the functions of the post from an accredited institution.
• Desirable: A professional accounting certification such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or equivalent would be an asset.
• In the event that your candidature is retained for an interview, you will be required to provide, in advance, a scanned copy of the degree(s)/diploma(s)/certificate(s) required for this position.  WHO, only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Experience:

• Essential: Thirteen years of combined national and international progressive experience in accounting and/or financial roles, with at least seven years’ experience at a large private or public sector organization. Experience should include responsibility for managing teams and leading complex financial operations using computerized financial accounting and reporting systems.
• Desirable: Experience working with international organizations. Experience in managing financial projects, including significant upgrades of ERP systems such as Workday and ensuring alignment with international accounting standards would be an asset.

Languages:

• Very good knowledge of English or Spanish with a working knowledge of the other language. Knowledge of French and/or Portuguese would be an asset.

Source: https://careers.who.int/careersection/ex/jobdetail.ftl?job=2403507&tz=GMT%2B05%3A30&tzname=Asia%2FCalcutta