Comptroller and Director, Division of Finance and Management - (D-2), FT, NYHQ, USA

Comptroller and Director, Division of Finance and Management - (D-2), FT, NYHQ, USA Job no: 594469 Contract type: Fixed Term Appointment Duty Station: New York Level: D-2 Location: United States Categories: Senior Leadership Vacancies Strategic Office Context The Division of Financial and Administrative Management (DFAM) under the leadership of the UNICEF Comptroller is responsible for maintaining a sound system of internal controls and leading financial reforms; budget formulation and planning, including performance and financial risk management; and the establishment of systems to ensure effective and efficient use of resources and the safeguarding of UNICEF assets. Purpose for the Job Under the overall authority of the Executive Director and under the oversight of the Deputy Executive Director-Management, the Comptroller will direct and manage the organization’s global financial, budget, accounting and administrative management operations and contribute to senior management decision-making to help ensure UNICEF effectively lives up to its mandate to protect the rights of every child worldwide. Key Functions and Accountabilities Monitors UNICEF’s financial performance to ensure achievement of global organizational objectives and goals. Develops, implements, and ensures adherence to global financial, accounting, budgetary and administrative policies and procedures. Establishes internal control mechanisms, performance standards, and measurements to ensure the organisation's assets are protected, resources are efficiently and effectively utilised, and all operational transactions are in accordance with the UN/UNICEF Financial Regulations and Rules. Formulates and implements strategic risk management approaches in conjunction with the DED Management and Chief Risk Officer. In particular, working with regional offices, shifts organizational culture from post facto risk management to ex ante corporate risk management. Formulates the organization's financial plans and participates in the formulation of the strategic plans and integrated budget. Proposes liquidity policy to the Executive Director and monitors its application to minimise risk and maximise utilisation of resources. Directs and supervises the activities of the Division of Financial and Administrative Management (DFAM) and provides financial guidance to senior management on financial, accounting, budget and administrative matters throughout the organization. Oversees the Global Strategic Operations function, supporting Regional and Country offices, ensuring collaboration from all levels within the organization and providing technical support and direction. Manages and approves financial operations related to the organization's assets and liabilities, revenue, and expenses. Directs the opening and management of all UNICEF bank accounts and authorises transfer and payment of funds. Decides, with the advice of a UNICEF Financial Advisory Committee, on the investment of funds. Monitors return on investments and take action to minimise investment risk. Ensures compliance with relevant financial accountability requirements and timely reporting to Governing Bodies, Donors and UNICEF management. Develops and ensures adherence to accounting policies. Oversees the preparation and utilisation of the institutional budget. In collaboration with relevant divisions, monitors the allocation and implementation of the programme and private sector budgets. Contribute to the identification and formulation of innovative financing modalities in collaboration with UNICEF’s Partnerships teams. Advises the Office of the Executive Director on the development of broad organisational operational objectives and policy issues. Ensures issuance of operational and financial policies and their consistent application throughout the Organization. Contributes to financial planning and level of UNICEF expenditures and activities based on available and expected resources. Monitors and reports financial results in relation to budget plans. Oversight of global premises, fleet management and travel, including eco‑sustainability and accessibility, and business continuity. Serves as Chairperson of the Contract Review Committee (CRC) and the Insurance and Property Survey Board, which monitors UNICEF's self‑insurance scheme and approves purchase of commercial insurance. Coordinates all relations of UNICEF with the United Nations Board of Auditors and other UN bodies as needed. Act for the Deputy Executive Director (Management) as required. Participates in UNICEF Executive Board meetings, providing guidance and advice to the Executive Director on financial and budgetary matters. Provides authoritative advice and decisions along with principles for new guidelines related to financial management. Contribute to improved ERM discourse and decision‑making. Qualifications Advanced university degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field and internationally recognised professional certification (e.g., CPA, CA, ACCA or equivalent) is required. Knowledge of IPSAS, IFRS or GAAP is highly desirable. A first‑level university degree in similar fields in combination with two additional years of qualifying relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. At least 15 years of professional financial management experience at a senior level in large organisations. Previous experience with the United Nations or international organisations with operations in humanitarian or development context is an asset. Fluency in English required. Knowledge of another UN working language is desired. Person Profile Background and knowledge of reporting implications of innovative and structured finance instruments is highly desirable. Proven record of progressively responsible leadership experience in financial management and accounting. Strong leadership and people management skills to lead large teams and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills. Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey financial information and insights to stakeholders. Benefits and Recruitment UNICEF encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, religious or ethnic backgrounds, and from people with disabilities, including neurodivergence. We offer a wide range of benefits to our staff, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks and reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities. UNICEF provides reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment process. If you require any accommodation, please submit your request through the accessibility email button on the UNICEF Careers webpage Accessibility | UNICEF. Should you be shortlisted, please get in touch with the recruiter directly to share further details, enabling us to make the necessary arrangements in advance. UNICEF appointments are subject to medical clearance. Issuance of a visa by the host country of the duty station is required for IP positions and will be facilitated by UNICEF. Appointments may also be subject to inoculation (vaccination) requirements, including against SARS‑CoV‑2 (Covid). Should you be selected for a position with UNICEF, you either must be inoculated as required or receive a medical exemption from the relevant department of the UN. Otherwise, the selection will be cancelled. Advertised: 13 Jul 2026 Eastern Daylight Time Deadline: 10 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time #J-18808-Ljbffr UNICEF - United Nations Children’s Fund