INTERNATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATION UNION
ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies, with the mission to connect the world. To achieve this, ITU manages the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits at the international level, works to improve communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishes global standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communication systems.
Extrabudgetary Finance Officer
Vacancy notice no: 2069
Sector: SG
Department: FRMD
Country of contract: Switzerland
Duty station: Geneva
Position number:
Grade: P3
Type of contract: Short-term
Duration of contract: 11 months
Recruitment open to: External
Application deadline (Midnight Geneva Time): 23 July 2025
ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT
The General Secretariat directs administrative, human and financial resources and activities of the Union, including the implementation of the provisions of the administrative regulations on operational questions, the dissemination of information on telecommunication/ICT matters for operational and other purposes, and the provision of legal advice to the whole of the Union. The General Secretariat coordinates the implementation of the Strategic Plan, monitors the telecommunication/ICT environment and recommends as needed action relating to the Union’s future policies and strategy. The General Secretariat ensures inter-sectoral coordination and cooperation to advance a whole of ITU approach (One-ITU) in headquarters and the field. The General Secretariat provides logistical and information technology support to the Union’s activities including conferences and global forums; the coordination of the work of the Union with the United Nations system, and other international organizations; and the engagement of the Member States, Sector Members, and Academia. The General Secretariat manages corporate governance, and strategic communications and relations with the media, different stakeholder groups as well as the general public.
Within the General Secretariat, the Financial Resources Management Department (FRMD) advises the Secretary General on financial resources management, accounting issues and procurement. It manages ITU's financial resources ensuring consistency with ITU strategies, policies, regulations and rules as well as UN Common System policies. It also ensures sound and balanced financial management of the Union; provides support and strategic advice on financial, budgetary and procurement matters, with a goal to strengthen ITU's financial system.
ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXT
The Extrabudgetary Funds Control Unit is responsible for the financial administration of extrabudgetary revenues and expenditures including the receipt, management, disbursement and reporting of funds.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The duties to be performed are as follows:
- Administer and monitor extrabudgetary resources, including review of agreements and cost plans, ensuring compliance with regulations, rules and established policies and procedures.
- Prepare accurate, complete and timely financial reports for submission to funding agencies in accordance with rules, established procedures, and relevant donor regulations. Coordinate internal financial reporting deadlines and requirements for projects and activities including the planning deadlines, formats for information and the consolidation of financial data to ensure donors receive high-quality, timely reports.
- Monitor grant expiry dates to ensure full utilization of funds within the grant period. Maintain a comprehensive inventory of expenditures for each specific grant and coordinate the financial monitoring and reporting of projects.
- Ensure that all procurement and grant allocation processes are fully compliant with donor and ITU reporting and auditing requirements. Support the Extrabudgetary Control Unit regarding audit, financial risk management and fraud prevention issues. Investigate discrepancies and initiate timely corrective actions.
- Contribute to the Department’s ongoing transformation efforts by identifying and implementing process improvements in financial management and operations. Support change management initiatives aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the use of extrabudgetary resources. Participate in the development and adoption of new digital tools, workflows, and policies aligned with strategic reform goals.
- Provide advice to project managers on correct procedures related to procurement, reporting, fund availability and the interpretation of Financial Regulations and Rules.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
CORE COMPETENCIES
Applying Expertise; Effective Communication; Learning and Knowledge Sharing; Organizational Commitment; Results-Focused, and; Teamwork and Collaboration.
FUNCTIONAL COMPETENCIES
TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES
- Advanced proficiency in Excel for financial modelling and data analysis.
- Knowledge of data visualization tools (e.g. Power BI) and ERP systems.
- Ability to interpret complex financial data and provide actionable insights.
QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
Education:
Advanced university degree in finance, accounting, business administration, management or related field OR education in a reputed college of advanced education with a diploma equivalent to that of a university degree in one of the above fields.
Experience:
At least five years of progressively responsible experience in finance or financial management including at least two at the international level. A Doctorate in a related field can be considered as a substitute for two years of working experience.
Languages:
Knowledge of one of the six official languages of the Union (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish) at advanced level and knowledge of a second official language at intermediate level. Knowledge of a third official language would be an advantage.
(Under the provision of Resolution No. 626 of the Council, a relaxation of the language requirements may be authorized in the case of candidates from developing countries: when candidates from such countries possess a thorough knowledge of one of the official languages of the Union, their applications may be taken into consideration).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This temporary opportunity is available to individuals residing locally.
INFORMATION ON RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the ITU Careers website. The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as a competency-based interview. ITU uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates. Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided. Messages originating from a non ITU e-mail account - @itu.int - should be disregarded. ITU does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
ITU applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. ITU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons with disabilities, to apply to become a part of the organization. Achieving gender balance is a high priority for ITU.
