Comptroller and Director, Division of Finance and Management

The Comptroller and Director leads UNICEF's global financial, budget, accounting and administrative management operations, ensuring effective financial oversight and contributing to senior management decision-making to uphold UNICEF's mandate to protect children's rights worldwide. The role involves setting financial and operational standards, managing organizational resilience, and adapting to complex global contexts.

Responsibilities

• Monitor UNICEF’s financial performance to ensure achievement of global organizational objectives and goals.
• Develop, implement, and ensure adherence to global financial, accounting, budgetary and administrative policies and procedures.
• Establish internal control mechanisms, performance standards, and measurements to protect assets and ensure efficient use of resources.
• Formulate and implement strategic risk management approaches in conjunction with senior management.
• Formulate the organization's financial plans and participate in strategic planning and integrated budget formulation.
• Direct and supervise the activities of the Division of Financial and Administrative Management (DFAM).
• Provide financial guidance to senior management on financial, accounting, budget and administrative matters.
• Oversee the Global Strategic Operations function supporting Regional and Country offices.
• Manage and approve financial operations related to assets, liabilities, revenue, and expenses.
• Direct the opening and management of all UNICEF bank accounts and authorize transfer and payment of funds.
• Decide on investment of funds and monitor return on investments to minimize risk.
• Ensure compliance with financial accountability requirements and timely reporting to Governing Bodies, Donors and UNICEF management.
• Oversee preparation and utilization of the institutional budget and monitor allocation and implementation.
• Contribute to the identification and formulation of innovative financing modalities.
• Advise the Office of the Executive Director on operational objectives and policy issues.
• Contribute to financial planning and monitor UNICEF expenditures and activities.
• Oversee global premises, fleet management and travel, including eco-sustainability and accessibility, and business continuity.
• Serve as Chairperson of the Contract Review Committee (CRC) and the Insurance and Property Survey Board.
• Coordinate relations with the United Nations Board of Auditors and other UN bodies.
• Act for the Deputy Executive Director (Management) as required.
• Participate in UNICEF Executive Board meetings providing guidance on financial and budgetary matters.
• Provide authoritative advice and decisions on financial management guidelines.
• Contribute to improved Enterprise Risk Management discourse and decision-making.

Requirements

• Advanced university degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field and internationally recognized professional certification (e.g., CPA, CA, ACCA or equivalent) is required.
• Knowledge of IPSAS, IFRS or GAAP is highly desirable.
• A first-level university degree in similar fields in combination with two additional years of qualifying relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
• At least 15 years of professional financial management experience at a senior level in large organizations.
• Previous experience with the United Nations or international organizations with operations in humanitarian or development context is an asset.
• Fluency in English required.
• Knowledge of another UN working language is desired.
• Background and knowledge of reporting implications of innovative and structured finance instruments is highly desirable.
• Proven record of progressively responsible leadership experience in financial management and accounting.
• Strong leadership and people management skills to lead large teams and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey financial information and insights to stakeholders.

Skills

• Finance Management
• Accounting
• Budgeting
• IPSAS
• IFRS
• GAAP
• CPA Certification
• CA Certification
• ACCA
• Financial Reporting
• Structured Finance
• Leadership in Financial Management
• People Management
• Financial Oversight
• Analytical Skills
• Problem Solving
• Communications Skills
• International Financial Reporting Standards

Languages

English