Finance Analyst

UNDP Pakistan is looking for a Finance Analyst to support the Country Office in managing its financial resources efficiently and transparently. The role requires analyzing complex financial matters, ensuring adherence to UNDP policies, and working closely with various teams and partners to improve financial performance. The Finance Analyst will play a vital role in promoting sound financial management, risk assessment, and reporting, thereby contributing significantly to UNDP’s sustainable development goals in Pakistan.

Key Responsibilities

- Implement and adapt operational and financial management strategies, refining processes and procedures as necessary.
- Ensure all financial activities and reporting comply with UNDP Programme and Operations Policies and Procedures (POPP), including following up on audit recommendations and closing audit gaps.
- Assist in developing and documenting finance business processes and internal standard operating procedures.
- Continuously analyze, monitor, and report on the financial status and risks of the Country Office, preparing forecasts for projects and activities.
- Recommend cost-saving and reduction strategies to improve financial efficiency.
- Monitor financial exception reports, investigate anomalies, and communicate findings to senior management and UNDP Headquarters.
- Manage budgets for development and management projects, including preparation, modification, and monitoring against authorized spending limits.
- Organize cost-recovery and Direct Project Cost (DPC) mechanisms, ensuring timely invoicing and receipt of contributions.
- Maintain control over Country Office accounts, review cash positions, initiate bank transfers, and prepare monthly cash flow forecasts.
- Facilitate knowledge sharing and provide guidance on financial matters to stakeholders.
- Identify training needs and organize capacity-building sessions on financial management, audit compliance, and internal controls.
- Contribute to knowledge networks by synthesizing lessons learned and best practices.
- Supervise finance unit support staff and perform additional duties to ensure efficient office functioning.

Required Qualifications

- Professional accounting qualification from an internationally accredited institute and/or a Master’s degree in Finance or Accounting. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree plus two additional years of relevant experience may also be considered.
- Candidates with professional accounting qualifications have an advantage; those without must complete the Finance Training and Certification Programme (FTCP).
- Applicants without accountancy qualifications but with relevant degrees must pass the UNDP Advanced Accountancy and Finance Test (AAFT).
- No prior professional experience is required for candidates holding a Master’s degree; those with a Bachelor’s degree must have at least two years of relevant financial management experience.
- Proficiency in MS Office applications and advanced knowledge of ERP financial systems is essential.
- Experience with International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) and/or International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) is required.
- Experience in financial management within international organizations and familiarity with UN or development sector financial rules and procedures is desirable.
- Fluency in both English and Urdu is mandatory.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

- Experience working in the development sector or with UN partner agencies is highly valued.
- UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion, providing an equitable workplace where all personnel can thrive.
- The organization enforces a strict policy against harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority.
- Selected candidates will undergo a probationary period of 12 months.
- UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates and may consider applicants for similar roles at the same grade level.
- The recruitment process is free of charge; applicants are advised to be cautious of scams.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable development in Pakistan by ensuring effective financial management within a leading international organization.