Background:

The OSCE has a comprehensive approach to security that encompasses politico-military, economic and environmental, and human aspects. It therefore addresses a wide range of security-related concerns, including arms control, confidence- and security-building measures, human rights, combating human trafficking, national minorities, democratization, policing strategies, counter-terrorism and economic and environmental activities. All 57 participating States enjoy equal status, and decisions are taken by consensus on a politically, but not legally binding basis.

The Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) is the principal institution of the OSCE responsible for the human dimension. ODIHR is active throughout the OSCE area in the fields of election observation, democratic development, human rights, tolerance and non-discrimination, and the rule of law. ODIHR’s assistance projects and other activities are implemented in participating States in accordance with ODIHR’s mandate.

For more detailed information on the structure and work of ODIHR, please see: http://www.osce.org/odihr.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

Under the general supervision of the Second Deputy Director of the ODIHR, the incumbent performs the functions of the Chief of Finance and Deputy Head of Common Services. The responsibilities include:

1. Ensuring the smooth operation of financial functions for ODIHR;
2. Assisting in the planning, co-ordination, oversight and overall management of operations and activities of the of Common Services’ Department;
3. Supporting the strategic planning of ODIHR programmatic activities and execution of management objectives;
4. Supporting management decision making regarding the efficient and effective use of budgetary resources and supporting stakeholder compliance;
5. Supporting the effective utilization of budget funds, including Common Services budget funds;
6. Supporting the donor compliance function of the Project Coordination Unit;
7. Ensuring sound financial management and uninterrupted cash processing and treasury management services throughout ODIHR; coordinating and overseeing maintenance of general ledger accounts;
8. Supporting the development of the OSCE regulatory framework and ODIHR compliance with OSCE regulations;
9. Supporting the essential controls of the Procurement process;
10. Performing other duties as required.

Necessary Qualifications:

• Second level University degree in Business Administration, Finance and/or related fields or first level University degree supplemented by certification from a recognized professional accountancy institution, such as Certified Public Accountant, Chartered Accountant, Certified Management Accountant or similar; alternatively, a first-level university degree in combination with two years of additional qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the second-level university degree;
• At least eight years of progressively responsible experience in financial and general management;
• At least six years of professional experience in a senior position in an intergovernmental, governmental, non-governmental or commercial organization;
• Experience with budget management processes;
• Experience with risk management processes;
• Solid knowledge of computer applications, in particular proficiency in MS Excel. Experience in designing and or implementing of, or extensive user experience with, Enterprise Resource Planning systems (desirable);
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English is essential. Knowledge of another official OSCE language is desirable;
• Ability to work with people of different nationalities, religions and cultural backgrounds;
• Demonstrated gender awareness and sensitivity, ethical awareness and an ability to integrate a gender perspective into tasks and activities.

Remuneration Package:

Monthly remuneration is approximately EUR 8,100 depending on post adjustment and family status. OSCE salaries are exempt from taxation in Poland. Social security will include participation in the Cigna International medical insurance scheme and OSCE Provident Fund maintained by the OSCE. The Organization contributes an amount equivalent to 15% of the employee’s salary to this Fund and the employee contributes 7.5%. Other allowances and benefits are similar to those offered under the United Nations Common System.

Please note that appointments are normally made at step 1 of the applicable OSCE salary scale.