About UN University

For the past four decades, UNU has been a go-to think tank for impartial research on the pressing global problems of human survival, conflict prevention, development, and welfare. With more than 400 researchers in 13 countries, UNU's work spans the full breadth of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating policy-relevant knowledge to effect positive global change. UNU maintains more than 200 collaborations with UN agencies and leading universities and research institutions across the globe. The global service centre for administration for all UNU institutes across the globe is located in Putrajaya.

Multiple finance positions at UNU Centre

UNU is building a roster of candidates which can be employed in the role of Finance Assistant. The functions below are generic and represent common tasks and responsibilities. We may contact you directly if there is a suitable opportunity in the future and a more specific job description will then be shared.

Duties and responsibilities

Duties and responsibilities include:

review and verify various finance-related documents

provide accounting and financial support to UNU Centre and UNU institutes

assist with the implementation of effective financial closing and reporting

ensure that records are processed in compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS), and UNU policies

timely follow up on unposted vouchers and unprocessed reports

assist with the preparation of monthly schedules and routine reports, including statistical and/or financial data

maintain files (both paper and electronic) and databases for the Finance Unit

provide administrative office support services to help ensure the smooth functioning of the Finance Unit, and perform any other duties as may be assigned

Required qualifications and experience

Required qualifications and experience include:

a minimum of 0-6 years of relevant working experience with secondary education (SPM or equivalent), or a bachelor's degree or equivalent from a recognised university in finance, accounting, or similar disciplines

experience working with IPSAS is a considerable asset

UN or UNU experience is an asset

proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience in handling ERP systems is desirable

a high level of resilience

fluency in both oral and written English is required; knowledge of another UN official language is an asset

results-oriented, self-motivated, and hands-on, with a strong ability to establish priorities, multitask, and work within tight timelines

a strong commitment to customer service

Selection process

The individual candidate will be evaluated according to the following process:

Stage 1: Establishing a roster

all applicants will be screened against the minimum requirements specified above for inclusion on a long list

long-listed applicants will be evaluated through a desk review and/or phone interview against the following criteria based on evidence in the submitted application:
o academic qualifications
o relevant professional experience
o demonstrated competencies

successful candidates will be included in the UNU Centre Administration Finance Assistant Roster for a period of 2 years

inclusion in the roster does not guarantee a contract with UNU Centre Administration

Stage 2: Contracting
When a request for services arises, the HR administrator shall contact the relevant individual(s) with the specific Terms of Reference (job description).

UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities to apply and become part of the organisation.

UNU has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNU, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination.

Remuneration

Remuneration will be commensurate with the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate.

Duration of contract

This is a full-time, one (1) year Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract with possibility for renewal subject to satisfactory work performance and availability of funds. The combined duration of appointments shall not exceed six (6) years.

This is a locally recruited post and no relocation allowances apply. The successful candidate will be employed under a local contract and will not hold international civil servant status nor be a staff member as defined in the UN Staff Rules and Regulations.

Starting date

As soon as possible.

a cover letter explaining the motivation for applying for the post and how the candidate's qualification and experience match the requirements of the position

a completed and signed UNU Personal History (P.11)form; please avoid using similar forms provided by other United Nations organisations

full contact information of three (3) references

an indication of the reference number of the vacancy announcement (2020/UNU/HQ/PSA/FAR/50)

Vacancy Announcement: UNU Centre Finance Assistant Roster (277.3 KB PDF)