Head of Unit - Finance and Contracts (Ref. UfM/FT/2026/08)
Location: Barcelona, Spain
Department: Finance, Legal & Administration Department. Reports to: Director of Administration Department. Post Classification: CS2.3 - Head of Unit, Step 1. Gross Salary: 61,200 EUR. Contracted Staff as per UfM Staff Regulations. Fixed-term contract of 3 years, 6 months' probation period.
SUMMARY: The Head of Unit for Finance and Contracts manages the activities and team of the Finance & Contracts Unit, ensuring alignment with sound financial management principles, legality and regularity of operations, and the UfM's internal control framework. The position oversees operational and strategic financial functions including budgeting, accounting, treasury, procurement, and financial reporting. It ensures appropriate segregation of duties and contributes to internal control mechanisms, collaborating directly with the Accounting Officer to safeguard the organisation's financial integrity.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Management and Coordination: Advise on all Finance & Contracts matters; provide strategic oversight of Treasury, Procurement, Accounting, Planning and Monitoring; manage long-term financial planning and annual budgeting; partner with the Accounting Officer; lead the Unit, set priorities and manage staff performance; foster a result-oriented, accountable work environment.
- Financial Systems and Compliance: Oversee implementation of financial rules and procedures in compliance with UfM regulations; ensure conformity with contractual and legal obligations; apply IFRS or IPSAS standards; monitor accounting system reports; supervise data entry and integrity of financial information systems; coordinate internal and external audits; implement early-warning mechanisms for budget variances.
- Budgeting and Financial Analysis: Coordinate preparation and monitoring of budgets and financial plans; analyse expenditures, contracts and grants; provide financial projections; develop the annual operating budget; maintain clear budget visibility.
- Financial Reporting and Monitoring: Ensure security, control and reporting of funds and expenditures; compile and analyse financial information; coordinate preparation of financial statements and periodic reports; review budget, revenue, expense, payroll entries and invoices; develop cash-flow forecasting tools.
QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: Must be a national of a UfM Member State. University degree(s) in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration or Auditing; a Master's degree in a related field is required. Minimum 8 years of relevant experience in finance, accounting, budgeting or contracts management within international organisations and/or international development agencies. Proven experience in financial accounting and production of financial statements is mandatory. Solid experience applying IFRS or IPSAS standards; auditing experience a strong asset. Minimum 5 years managing Projects, Finance and Contracts, and team supervision. Experience managing procurement and contracts. Familiarity with international financial regulation and EU regulatory frameworks.
Competencies: Excellent team management, communication, negotiation and problem-solving skills; strong analytical skills; ability to deliver results under pressure. Languages: Full proficiency in English and another UfM working language (Arabic or French); Spanish an asset.
HOW TO APPLY: Complete the online application form and upload a detailed CV and a motivation letter (English, PDF only).
Deadline to apply: 26 August 2026 (midnight CEST, GMT+2).