Strategic Finance & Administration Director

Union for the Mediterranean; Barcelona; On-site; EUR 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The Director of Administration at Union for the Mediterranean leads Finance, Central Support Services, Contracts & Procurement, Grants & Funds Management, and IT, reporting to the Deputy Secretary General – Administration. The role ensures robust accounting, budgeting, payroll, procurement, and reporting with accuracy, compliance and transparency.

Ideal candidates hold a Master’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, or Economics, with extensive senior leadership experience in

Qualifications

• 16+ years of progressively responsible professional experience relevant to the duties of the position, including at least 8 years in senior managerial roles
• Experience in managing administrative services with budget responsibility and strong governance knowledge
• Knowledge of accounting standards (IFRS/IPSAS) and financial reporting for institutional donors
• Experience working in EU institutions or agencies and familiarity with EU financial systems (highly desirable)
• Experience overseeing multidisciplinary corporate functions such as contracts and procurement, grants and funds management, IT, logistics or facilities

Responsibilities

• Lead development, implementation, and monitoring of financial strategies, policies, and procedures in line with EU regulations and donor requirements
• Oversee all financial operations including budgeting, forecasting, reporting, accounting, treasury, payroll, and procurement
• Provide strategic financial analysis and advise senior management on risks, governance, and resource allocation
• Define the department’s work programme in alignment with UfM strategy
• Ensure adequate resources and people to implement activities and achieve goals
• Act as UfM Accounting Officer ensuring accuracy and integrity of financial operations and reporting
• Ensure IT infrastructure and ICT operations meet organizational needs and security standards
• Oversee CSS Unit for logistics, event coordination, mission management, and facility operations
• Report to the Secretary General and participate in the Management Committee
• Engage with Member States, donors, auditors, and institutional bodies on financial and administrative matters
• Lead performance management of Finance, CSS, Contracts and Procurement, Grants & Funds Management, and IT teams

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Analytical thinking

People management

Communication

Planning and organizing

Education

Master's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Economics or related field

Professional accounting qualification (ACCA/CIMA/CPA) desirable

Job description

The Director of Administration at Union for the Mediterranean leads Finance, Central Support Services, Contracts & Procurement, Grants & Funds Management, and IT, reporting to the Deputy Secretary General – Administration. The role ensures robust accounting, budgeting, payroll, procurement, and reporting with accuracy, compliance and transparency.

Ideal candidates hold a Master’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, or Economics, with extensive senior leadership experience in