Company Description
At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature. Find out more on http://home.cern.
Job Description
Introduction
Are you an experienced and flexible accounts payable professional with the competencies and experience to supervise a team? Join CERN and put your skills to use in an exceptional environment! We are looking for a pragmatic and hands-on person who is used to handling large volumes of work in an international environment, and who in time will be able to take responsibility for the Accounts Payable team.
You will join:
The Finance and Administrative Processes department (FAP), which is responsible for effectively and efficiently managing the financial resources and commitments of the Organization, and ensuring compliance with CERN’s financial rules and procedures.The Accounting Services group (ACC), which is responsible for all accounting transactions of the Organization and includes the General Accounting, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable and Personnel Accounting sections.The Accounts Payable section (AP), which receives all invoices and credit notes from suppliers. These are recorded, controlled, and authorised for payment. The section processes between 35 000 and 40 000 invoices per year.https://fap-dep.web.cern.ch/acc/accounts-payable
Functions
The Accounts Payable section is comprised of 7 people and is responsible for the following activities. The successful candidate will be expected to gain an understanding of all aspects, and to work with the team to deliver them.
Recording, checking and settling of invoices received by the Organization. For some suppliers with monthly invoicing and multiple orders, checking the invoices requires analysis in Excel.Following up service provider and supply contracts in close collaboration with the technical managers, procurement officers and suppliers.Coding and entering financial accounting entries related to payables, and monitoring supplier accounts.Determining the accruals required for invoices received but not yet paid.Responding to a significant volume of ad hoc requests from both internal and external contacts (using a ticket system).In support of the delivery of these tasks, the supervisor of the section is expected to perform the following:
Supervision and management of a team of 6 people with various employment statuses, which results in a regular turnover in the team.Proactive monitoring of work flows (eg with KPI), assessing working methods and implementing new procedures and tools as required.Analysis and resolution of problems encountered by the team, or the contacts of the team, in treating the invoices for payment. The issues encountered are varied, for example can take the form of miscommunications, incorrect initial orders, incorrect invoices, unclear contract terms, VAT issues, misunderstood procedures.Develop relationships with various internal services and external parties.Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of finance or a related field.
Experience:
Proven professional experience in the field of Accounts Payable or a similar procure-to-pay role, ideally in a large industrial company or an international organisation.Experience as a supervisor.Exposure to IFRS and/or IPSAS international accounting standards would be an advantage.Technical competencies:
Accounting control and analysis: particularly in the domain of accounts payable.Cost control (cost accounting).Financial reporting and analysis.Customer Service.Good knowledge of Excel.Behavioural competencies:
Solving Problems: Adopting a pragmatic approach; understanding the value of adopting generic rather than \"gold-plated\" technical solutions.Working in Teams: Building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships. Contributing to promoting a positive atmosphere in the team through an optimistic and constructive attitude; addressing issues.Demonstrating Flexibility: Adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements. Demonstrating willingness to alter views when presented with new information.Managing Self: Working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting. Remaining objective, focused and productive in a stressful environment; focusing on solutions rather than problems.Language skills:
Spoken and written English and French: ability to understand and speak both languages in professional contexts as well as the ability to draft texts for publications and/ or official communications and to make oral presentations in both languages.
Additional Information
Eligibility and closing date:
Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization. Employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We welcome applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.
This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 23:59 CET Wednesday 31st January 2024.
Employment Conditions
Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.
These functions require:
Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.Job grade: 4-5 https://careers.cern/salary-conditions
Job reference: FAP-ACC-AP-2023-174-LD
Benchmark Job Title: Financial Support Officer