Technical Officer – Finance Management/Rural Finance;UNDP
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is seeking a Technical Officer – Finance Management/Rural Finance to work on the Rural Enterprises for Agriculture Development (READ) project in Juba, South Sudan. The role is under an International Personnel Service Agreement (IPSA-9) contract and is focused on financial management and rural finance. The selected candidate will oversee financial operations and rural financial services, playing a critical role in supporting the financial aspects of the READ project to ensure effective implementation.
This is a full-time position with an initial contract duration of one year, with the possibility of an extension based on performance and funding availability.
2. Background of the Job and Context of South Sudanhttps://estm.fa.em2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1/job/23616
South Sudan, with a population of approximately 12 million, is a country facing significant challenges, including conflict, economic instability, and food insecurity. The country’s economy is largely agrarian, with 80% of households depending on cultivation for livelihood. However, despite having vast arable land, only 4% of available land is cultivated, and most agricultural activities are subsistence-based.
Some of the major challenges affecting economic development in South Sudan include:
- Conflict and political instability, leading to displacement and insecurity.
- Lack of access to finance for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), as only 10% of total loans in the banking sector go to MSMEs.
- Low financial inclusion, with only 5% of adults having a financial account and very few people able to access credit or savings services.
- Limited infrastructure, including poor road networks, lack of electricity, and weak Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems.
- Climate shocks, such as frequent floods and droughts, affecting agricultural productivity.
- Weak institutional and state structures, leading to challenges in governance and financial management.
To address these challenges, the READ project was designed by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS), and UNDP. The project will run from 2023 to 2029 and aims to support Rural Producers’ Organizations (RPOs), Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs), Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs), and Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs).
The Technical Officer – Finance Management/Rural Finance will play a crucial role in ensuring the successful implementation of Component Two of the READ project, which focuses on inclusive rural financial services.
3. Key Responsibilities of the Technical Officer – Finance Management/Rural Finance
The selected candidate will report to the Project Manager and work under a matrix reporting arrangement that includes the Chief Programme Advisor and the Team Leader of the Sustainable and Resilient Recovery (STARR) unit. The main duties include:
(A) Strategic Planning, Financial Resource Management, and Project Implementation
- Develop annual work plans and budgets in consultation with the project team.
- Ensure that financial plans and budget allocations align with procurement plans and project objectives.
- Prepare and submit cash forecasts to ensure the availability of funds for timely project activities.
- Monitor the expenditure of financial resources in accordance with UNDP, donor, and government rules.
- Conduct financial analysis and oversight to ensure resources are utilized effectively.
- Ensure proper financial documentation, tracking, and compliance with audit requirements.
- Work closely with the UNDP country office programme units, MAFS, and national and state-level partners to ensure successful project execution.
(B) Financial Performance Reporting and Monitoring
- Provide strategic advice on financial planning and management.
- Monitor and manage the financial performance of the project, ensuring resources are optimally allocated.
- Prepare financial projections to guide budgeting and spending decisions.
- Generate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, ensuring compliance with donor and UNDP reporting requirements.
- Ensure bank reconciliations are performed accurately and in a timely manner.
- Identify financial risks and implement mitigation strategies to prevent misuse of funds.
(C) Managing the Project Budget and Cost-Recovery System
- Oversee all financial resources, ensuring adherence to UNDP and IFAD financial regulations.
- Ensure that payments to vendors, sub-recipients, and service providers are processed correctly.
- Track contributions from donors and ensure timely transfers to project accounts.
- Maintain financial records, supporting documents, and audit trails to enhance transparency and accountability.
(D) Monitoring Sub-Recipients and Implementing Partners
- Assess the financial management capacity of project partners and stakeholders.
- Conduct regular financial audits and reviews to ensure compliance.
- Provide technical support to partners in financial management, reporting, and accountability.
- Monitor sub-recipients’ budget utilization and ensure financial reports are submitted on time.
- Identify fraud risks and take corrective action to address financial irregularities.
4. Key Competencies and Skills Required@vacancyspaces.com
The ideal candidate should demonstrate the following competencies:
(A) Core Competencies
- Results-oriented: Ability to achieve project objectives efficiently.
- Innovative thinking: Capable of developing new approaches to financial management.
- Adaptability: Ability to handle complex and changing environments.
- Strategic decision-making: Capable of making timely and well-informed financial decisions.
- Partnership management: Ability to engage and maintain relationships with government institutions, private sector actors, and financial institutions.
(B) Functional/Technical Competencies
- Financial management expertise – Knowledge of budgeting, financial reporting, and auditing.
- Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) – Ability to assess financial performance and provide feedback.
- Project management – Experience in handling financial operations for large-scale development projects.
- Business development and investment facilitation – Understanding of MSMEs and microfinance institutions.
5. Qualifications and Experience
Education Requirements
- Master’s degree in Finance, Business Administration, Economics, or related fields.
- OR a Bachelor’s degree in the above fields plus two additional years of relevant experience.
Experience Requirements
- Minimum of 2 years of experience (with a master’s degree) or 4 years of experience (with a bachelor’s degree) in financial management, project finance, or related fields.
- Experience in financial advisory services, project financial management, and operational systems.
- Prior experience in UN agencies, international organizations, or government institutions is an added advantage.
- Knowledge of financial reporting tools, web-based management systems, and ERP platforms.
- Experience working in South Sudan or similar conflict-affected countries is desirable.
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English is required.
- Knowledge of Arabic or other local languages is an advantage.
6. Application Process and Additional Considerations
Applicants must submit their applications before February 7, 2025. The recruitment process will involve:
- Application review – Assessing eligibility and qualifications.
- Interview process – Candidates may be interviewed to assess technical and leadership capabilities.
- Reference and background checks – UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy on fraud, harassment, and misconduct, and candidates will undergo strict verification.
UNDP’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:
- UNDP encourages applications from women, marginalized groups, and individuals from conflict-affected areas.
- UNDP is an equal opportunity employer, and no fees are required during the application process.
7. Conclusion
This role is an exciting opportunity for professionals with a strong background in finance, rural development, and project management to make a meaningful impact in South Sudan’s economic recovery and financial inclusion efforts. The Technical Officer – Finance Management/Rural Finance will play a key role in ensuring the successful implementation of the READ project, ultimately contributing to rural financial empowerment, economic growth, and food security in the region.
Comprehensive Guide to the UNDP Technical Officer – Finance Management/Rural Finance Role in South Sudan
1. Introduction to the Job and the Role of UNDP in South Sudan
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that plays a key role in supporting countries in their development processes. UNDP’s mission is to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and build resilience so that countries can sustain progress. In fragile and conflict-affected states like South Sudan, UNDP focuses on strengthening governance, improving access to finance, promoting economic stability, and supporting rural livelihoods.
One of UNDP’s key initiatives in South Sudan is the Rural Enterprises for Agriculture Development (READ) project, designed to empower rural communities, small-scale farmers, and entrepreneurs through enhanced access to financial services. Given that the country faces economic fragility, low financial inclusion, and limited access to credit, the READ project aims to address these gaps by providing targeted support to rural financial institutions and enterprises.
As part of this initiative, UNDP is recruiting a Technical Officer – Finance Management/Rural Finance, who will play a crucial role in ensuring the financial sustainability and proper financial management of the project. The officer will also support the development of rural financial services, oversee financial risk management, and ensure compliance with UNDP’s financial policies.
This role is under an International Personnel Service Agreement (IPSA-9) contract and will be based in Juba, South Sudan. The position is full-time, with an initial contract duration of one year, subject to extension based on performance and availability of funding.
2. Context of South Sudan and the Financial Challenges
Economic and Financial Landscape in South Sudan
South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011, remains one of the world’s most fragile states due to years of conflict, economic instability, and underdeveloped infrastructure. The country has vast agricultural potential, yet its economic growth is hindered by several chronic challenges, including:
- Over-reliance on oil exports (which account for 90% of government revenue).
- Limited financial infrastructure, with very few banks operating in rural areas.
- High inflation rates and currency depreciation.
- Weak governance structures that make financial management a challenge.
- Low levels of formal financial inclusion, as only 5% of adults have access to financial accounts.
Challenges in Rural Finance and Microfinance
- Limited Access to Credit – Due to the high cost of borrowing and strict collateral requirements, rural businesses and farmers struggle to obtain loans.
- Underdeveloped Savings Culture – Most rural communities lack financial literacy and do not engage in formal savings, making financial resilience difficult.
- Lack of Rural Banking Services – With limited banking infrastructure outside major cities, most rural populations rely on informal financial mechanisms.
- Weak Financial Institutions – Microfinance institutions and savings cooperatives are underfunded and lack proper governance structures.
To overcome these challenges, the READ project is designed to promote inclusive rural financial services, focusing on:
- Strengthening Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs).
- Supporting Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs).
- Improving access to microfinance and small business loans.
- Building financial literacy among rural entrepreneurs.
The Technical Officer – Finance Management/Rural Finance will be responsible for ensuring that these financial interventions are well managed, financially sustainable, and properly accounted for under UNDP guidelines.
3. Key Responsibilities of the Technical Officer – Finance Management/Rural Finance
The Technical Officer will report directly to the Project Manager while working closely with the Chief Programme Advisor and the Sustainable and Resilient Recovery (STARR) unit team leader. The officer’s primary responsibilities include:
(A) Strategic Financial Planning and Budgeting
- Develop annual financial plans and budgets for the READ project.
- Align budget planning with procurement processes to ensure efficient resource utilization.
- Prepare and submit cash forecasts to secure timely funding for project implementation.
- Ensure that project spending is in accordance with UNDP financial regulations and donor agreements.
- Implement cost control measures to enhance financial efficiency.
(B) Financial Reporting and Monitoring
- Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for donors, government partners, and UNDP.
- Maintain financial records and ensure compliance with audit and monitoring requirements.
- Conduct financial analysis and risk assessments to identify potential financial threats.
- Implement internal controls to mitigate fraud and financial mismanagement.
(C) Rural Financial Services Development
- Strengthen Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs) and Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs).
- Provide training on financial literacy, savings culture, and investment planning to rural communities.
- Work with microfinance institutions to improve access to credit for rural entrepreneurs.
- Support the development of digital financial solutions to enhance financial inclusion.
(D) Stakeholder Coordination and Capacity Building
- Work closely with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS), banks, microfinance institutions, and rural financial cooperatives.
- Provide training and technical support to project partners on financial management best practices.
- Organize financial workshops and capacity-building programs for community-based financial groups.
(E) Compliance, Risk Management, and Auditing
- Ensure that all project funds are used in line with UNDP’s financial rules.
- Monitor financial transactions to prevent fraud, corruption, and mismanagement.
- Conduct financial audits and provide recommendations for improved financial accountability.
- Ensure adherence to international financial reporting standards (IFRS) and donor compliance guidelines.
4. Required Qualifications, Skills, and Experience
Education Requirements
- Master’s degree in Finance, Business Administration, Economics, Accounting, or a related field.
- A Bachelor’s degree in the above fields is acceptable if the candidate has at least 2 additional years of relevant experience.
Professional Experience Requirements
- At least 2 years of experience (with a Master’s degree) or 4 years (with a Bachelor’s degree) in financial management, rural finance, or banking.
- Experience working in microfinance institutions, development finance, or rural banking is an advantage.
- Prior experience with UN agencies, government institutions, or international NGOs is desirable.
- Strong knowledge of financial reporting systems, budgeting tools, and ERP platforms.
- Experience working in conflict-affected countries, particularly in Africa, is an added advantage.
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English (written and spoken) is mandatory.
- Knowledge of Arabic or local South Sudanese languages is a plus.
5. Application Process and Considerations
Application Timeline
- Applications must be submitted by February 7, 2025.
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews and written assessments.
Selection Criteria
Candidates will be evaluated based on:
- Technical knowledge of finance and rural development.
- Experience in managing financial resources for development projects.
- Strategic planning and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work in a conflict-affected environment.
Diversity and Inclusion
- Women, marginalized groups, and candidates from conflict-affected areas are encouraged to apply.
- UNDP promotes a zero-tolerance policy on discrimination and misconduct.
6. Conclusion
The Technical Officer – Finance Management/Rural Finance position presents an excellent opportunity for a finance professional looking to make a meaningful impact in South Sudan’s rural financial sector. By managing project finances, supporting financial institutions, and promoting access to credit, the selected candidate will help drive economic development, poverty reduction, and financial to Sudan