Finance Officer

Organizational Setting

The Finance Division 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 (HQ) in Rome, Italy.

Reporting Lines

The Finance Officer reports to a senior Finance Officer, 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.

• Provides assistance in the operational management of the General Ledger.

• Provides assistance 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 the Global Finance Management of non-HQ 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 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, five years of relevant experience and completion of professional qualification in accountancy (CA, CPA, ACCA) or investment professional (CFA).

• Working knowledge (proficient - level C) of English and limited knowledge (intermediate - 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

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

• Experience and knowledge of Accounting and Finance Operations in a major Organization.

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