OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POST

Working within Operational Support Unit of the Executive Office of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC/EO/AO) under the direct supervision of the Head of Unit, the Operations Officer is responsible for providing a range of administrative management support activities to IOC Sections at HQ and decentralized units, including acting as certifying officer and providing guidance to the two Administrative Assistants.

Long Description

In particular, the incumbent will:

• Advise and support IOC, on all administration, budget and financial matters.
• Ensure compliance with UNESCO policies, rules, regulations and procedures in terms of budget, financial and human resources.
• Provide regular and ad hoc budget and financial information to the Head of Unit to support informed decision-making.
• Participate, through user feedbacks, in the development of budget, financial and human resources policies and procedures.
• Draft correspondence and internal procedural directives relating to budgetary, financial and administration matters.
• Ensure Sector’s financial resources are fully and properly accounted for and that internal control systems are adequate and functioning.
• Monitor and advise the Head of Unit on the financial status of projects and programmes (including funds confirmed but not yet available for expenditure; funds available for expenditure and funds already spent).
• Ensure that UNESCO procurement policy is strictly adhered to and train staff in the procurement procedures and ensure contract work is performed according to the specifications and terms of contracts.
• Act as Certifying Officer ensuring that financial transactions are in compliance with regulations, rules, policies and procedures.
• In line with the Organization’s policies and procedures, set up proper accounting procedures and systems, internal controls having regard to specific requirements of the Sector.
• May suggest changes in accounting procedures, when appropriate, and implement them once approved by central services.

COMPETENCIES (Core / Managerial)

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Advanced university degree (Master degree or equivalent) in finance, business administration, accounting, or related field. A university degree with at least two years of relevant professional experience and advanced training/courses in one or more of the following disciplines: accounting, public administration, business administration or other related areas or membership in a recognized professional accountancy body, may be taken into consideration in lieu of an advanced university degree.
• Procurement certification and experience in procurement would be an asset.

Work experience:

• Minimum of 4 years of progressively responsible relevant professional experience in management, finance and administration or related field areas of which preferably 2 years at international level.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong analytical, problem solving, organizational and coordination skills.
• Ability to provide policy advice and assistance to decision makers.
• Capacity to diagnose and resolve multiple and concurrent problems.
• Demonstrated capacity to interpret strategy into priorities and actions.
• Familiarity with the work and general functioning of international organizations and/or the UN System.

Languages:

• Excellent knowledge of English. Knowledge of French or another UNESCO official language (Arabic, Chinese, Russian or Spanish) would be an asset.