Introduction

The transition to a low-carbon economy represents opportunities (green jobs, health) but also challenges (social transformation and economic restructuring) for society and the economy. This transition will only be possible and sustainable if it does not increase inequalities. 

In 2015, the ILO adopted the "Guiding Principles for a Just Transition to Environmentally Sustainable Economies and Societies for All", adopted through a tripartite process, as a framework for action by the Organization and its member States. The ILO's Green Jobs program in place since 2008 has progressively assisted some 30 countries, while strengthening the ILO's expertise and relevant tools in specific areas of work. In particular, the program has focused on the development of green enterprises, social protection in the context of structural transformation and climate change, and skills development through knowledge creation, awareness raising, capacity building, diagnosis and support for public policy formulation. 

France, which hosted the United Nations Climate Change Conference that led to the Paris Climate Change Agreement of 2015, is playing a leading role in this context. The Paris Climate Agreement specifically mentions "the imperatives of a just transition for the active population and the creation of decent and quality jobs in accordance with nationally defined development priorities”. The commitment of the ILO at all levels has contributed to this recognition of the importance of the social and employment dimension in the Paris Agreement.  

At the United Nations Climate Action Summit in 2019, 46 countries committed to develop national plans for a just transition through social dialogue and decent work through green jobs, enabling ambitious action for a sustainable work future. To support and implement these commitments, the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, announced the creation of a "Climate Action for Jobs" initiative and designated the International Labour Organization to lead its implementation. 

The 'Social Dimension of Ecological Transition' project takes place in this context and is one of the key axes of the 2020-2024 partnership between France and the ILO. The project aims to make a just ecological transition possible in countries through a better understanding of the nature and impact of climate change on employment and on income, as well as the definition of social measures and policies to promote job creation and social inclusion while mitigating economic and social risks. 

The implementation of the project revolves around three main areas:
- The strengthening of institutional structures for social dialogue
- Anchoring and strengthening research and development capacity for integrated economic models for policy evaluation
- Supporting for the formulation and implementation of policies (social protection, business, investment) based on inclusive social dialogue and integrated analytical models

The project will focus on three "pilot" beneficiaries: Cote d'Ivoire, Senegal and Nigeria, for which national project coordinators will coordinate the work. They will be supported by an administrative and finance assistant in each pilot country. Some activities will also benefit Algeria, Ghana, Morocco and Niger. 

The current position will be based in the ILO Country Office for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone

Description of Duties

•    Assist with the planning and preparatory work of the project initiatives in Nigeria. Monitor status of the project and receipt of documentation for review and approval, verifying that information are compliant with applicable rules, regulations, policies, procedures and guidelines. Monitor the status of the project outcomes and deliverables and inform the supervisor of any discrepancies.
•    Compile, summarize and present a variety of information and data to the supervisor on issues pertinent to the Office’s work programme, including on budgets, staffing levels and structures of programmes and/or projects, and other related topics or issues 
•    Manage all administrative tasks, including logistical support to the project personnel, travel arrangements, visas, hotel reservation and provide logistics arrangements for conferences, seminars, workshops and meetings and other events in Nigeria.
•    Maintain and update databases. Perform basic searches for information and prepare and update periodic reports, background information, briefing notes and statistical summaries
•    Assist the project coordinator in the programming and preparation of budget estimates and expenditure forecasts by analyzing and monitoring the situation of resources as compared to planned activities 
•    Maintain an overview of the financial situation of the Project, to ensure that timely administrative support is provided in general and particular areas. Prepare and modify budget code and budget data such as budget proposals, budget revision, and rephrasing.
•    Prepare administrative and finance related briefing materials for the coordinators. Keep abreast of the progress report requirements and timetable, providing support to the project manager and coordinators for the preparation of the submission. 
•    Process financial transactions and verify that information and supporting documentation is in compliance with financial rules and regulations, policies, procedures and applicable standards
•    Maintain and update spreadsheets and databases for internal expenditure control purposes
•    Respond to requests for general information and routine queries on status of payments and other budgetary issues.
•    Keep abreast of changes to relevant programme-related policies, procedures, guidelines and processes and share information with concerned parties, providing further clarification as required.
•    Keep abreast of developments in the country which may have an impact on areas for ILO assistance and collaboration/development cooperation.
•    Perform other relevant duties as assigned

Required qualifications

Education

Completion of secondary school education with formal training in accounting and/or finance and administrative field.

Experience

Five years of progressively responsible financial and administrative work, and some training in an administrative field.

Languages

Excellent knowledge of English.

Competencies

• Knowledge and understanding of a complex body of financial and administrative rules, guidelines and procedures.
• Knowledge of in-house procedures for the preparation of documents and administrative forms, and for the creation and maintenance of filing systems.
• Good analytical skills. Ability to reason and make sound judgements.
• Ability to maintain financial records and prepare clerical accounting reports and statements.
• Must demonstrate responsible behaviour and attention to detail.
• Ability to deal with confidential matters with discretion.
• Must display high standards of ethical conduct.
• Proficient in basic computer software (Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Adobe Reader) and ability to use other software packages required by the Office.
• Ability to evaluate correspondence and inquiries for best course of action.
• Ability to respond to work related inquiries in an appropriate manner.
• Ability to obtain services from other work units inside or outside the office for completion of tasks.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work on own initiative as well as a member of a team.
• Organizational skills.
• Ability to clarify information.
• Ability to deal with people with tact and diplomacy.