Finance and Programme Assistant – PPAC At Pacific Community

The Pacific Community (SPC) invites applications for the position of Finance and Programme Assistant – PPAC. This position will be located in Honiara, Solomon Islands.

Description

The Pacific Community (SPC) is the principal scientific and technical organisation in the Pacific region, supporting development since 1947. We are an international development organisation owned and governed by our 27 country and territory members. In pursuit of sustainable development to benefit Pacific people, our unique organisation works across more than 25 sectors. We are known for our knowledge and innovation in such areas as fisheries science, public health surveillance, geoscience, and conservation of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.

The Human Rights and Social Development Division – For over 20 years SPC has operated as the region’s pioneer in human rights and gender capacity building to Pacific states, institutions and civil society. Through a team of regional advisors and Country Focal Officers (CFOs) based in member states, it provides a comprehensive suite of policy and legislative advice, technical assistance and capacity building to support Pacific states to respond effectively to priority regional human rights priorities, such as gender equality, ending violence against women and children, disability rights, climate change and equitable, sustainable development.

The role – the Finance and Programme Assistant – PPAC will support the Pacific People Advancing Change (PPAC) programme through finance and capacity-building assistance.

The key responsibilities of the role include the following:

Project financial management

• Support grant payments and acquittals
• Support the PPAC phase transition with process tracking
• Maintain process surveillance on payments and acquittals
• Assist with grantee budget development and financial reporting
• Track budget execution of CSO partners
• Assist with file management support

Logistics and support

• Support PPAC Officer to develop budgets for national activities
• Provide logistical and administrative support to activities
• Ensure timely disbursal of DSA and support to workshop participants
• Provide travel booking and management support

Finance capacity-strengthening

• Support the design and delivery of financial management and budget training for grantees
• Review relevant documents during the phase transition including proposed budgets and draft acquittals
• Supporting with grantee queries and requests for advice and support
• Contribute to user-friendly tools, templates and learning products to further strengthen capacity

Project administration support

• Set agendas, takes minutes and organise files for PPAC programme meetings
• Ensure staff are regularly maintaining time sheets
• Order programme supplies and equipment as needed

For a more detailed account of the key responsibilities, please refer to the online job description.

Key selection criteria

Qualifications

• A degree in finance, administration, accounting, or equivalent work experience

Technical expertise

• At least 3 years’ relevant work experience in project accounting and financial reporting
• Experience in training, coaching, mentoring and/or developing learning tools
• Demonstrated experience in event organisation, logistics and travel
• Basic accountancy skills
• Advanced computer skills in Microsoft software applications, especially MS Excel, Word and PowerPoint
• Demonstrated organisational and multi-tasking skills
• Ability to systemically file, maintain filing systems
• Ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
• Experience using Navision Software or similar finance software

Language skills

• Excellent oral and written communications skills

Interpersonal skills and cultural awareness

• A proactive and positive team player able to work effectively in a multicultural environment
• Knowledge of Pacific Island countries and territories is an advantage

Salary, terms and conditions

Contract Duration – This position is budgeted until 31 December 2023 and is subject to renewal depending on performance and funding.

Remuneration – the Finance and Programme Assistant – PPAC is a Band 7 position in SPC’s 2022 salary scale, with a starting salary range of SBD 72,677–90,846 per year, plus local staff benefits. An offer of appointment for an initial contract will be made in the lower half of this range, with due consideration being given to experience and qualifications. Progression within the salary scale will be based on annual performance reviews. Salary and housing allowance are subject to income tax.

Benefits – SPC provides a housing allowance of 25% of the base salary, medical and life insurance for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Employees are entitled to 25 days of annual leave and access to SPC’s Provident Fund (contributing 8% of salary, to which SPC adds a matching contribution).

Languages – SPC’s working languages are English and French.

Recruitment principles – SPC’s recruitment is based on merit and fairness, and candidates are competing in a selection process that is fair, transparent and non-discriminatory. SPC is an equal-opportunity employer, and is committed to cultural and gender diversity, including bilinguism, and will seek to attract and appoint candidates who respect these values. Due attention is given to gender equity and the maintenance of strong representation from Pacific Island professionals. If two interviewed candidates are ranked equal by the selection panel, preference will be given to the Pacific Islander. Applicants will be assured of complete confidentiality in line with SPC’s private policy.

Please note that applicants must be Solomon Islands Nationals currently residing in the country, or hold the proper work permit for salaried employment there.