Job no: 595355
Contract type: Fixed Term Appointment
Duty Station: Lilongwe
Level: G-6
Location: Malawi
Categories: Financial Management

Under the supervision of the Budget Officer, the Finance & Budget Associate will support the effective management of financial resources by strengthening financial stewardship, compliance, accountability, and operational efficiency. The role will provide accurate information, analysis, reporting, and monitoring to support risk-informed decision-making and organizational performance. The incumbent will contribute to finance and budget planning, monitoring, reporting, and follow-up by maintaining reliable data, supporting analysis, identifying issues and opportunities, and working closely with programme and operations teams. Through collaboration, problem-solving, attention to detail, and continuous improvement, the role will help ensure resources are managed efficiently, transparently, and in line with organizational policies and procedures, contributing to sustainable results for children.

The UNICEF Malawi Programme aims to advance the rights of children through equitable and accountable programme delivery and as a Finance & Budget Associate, you will strengthen financial stewardship, budget oversight, donor compliance, and efficient resource management for results for children.

Minimum requirements

• Education: Secondary education is required. Professional and/or university courses related to budget management, finance, accounting and other related fields are highly desirable.
• Work Experience: 6 years of relevant work experience in Financial Management, budget management, financial analysis, financial reporting, grant management, payroll administration, accounts payable, accounts receivable, funds management, internal controls, donor compliance and any other related fields.
• Skills: Strong knowledge of programme and operations budget management, financial accounting, payroll administration, reconciliations, transaction processing, and financial controls. Ability to review, analyze, and interpret financial and budget data; identify risks, variances, and discrepancies; and recommend practical solutions to support sound decision-making. Demonstrated ability to prepare budgets, forecasts, financial reports, cost estimates, year-end accounts, and documentation required for audit, assurance, and compliance purposes. Proficiency in SAP or other ERP systems, financial and budget management platforms, and advanced Microsoft Excel for planning, analysis, monitoring, reconciliation, and reporting. Excellent communication and client-service skills, with the ability to provide clear guidance, explain financial and budget requirements, and respond effectively to queries from programme and operations colleagues. Strong planning, organizational, problem-solving, and follow-up skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and deliver accurate, high-quality work with limited supervision.
• Language Requirements: Fluency in English is required.