The Land and Natural Resources Program (LNR) at the Institute of the Environment (IOE), University of Balamand, is dedicated to promoting sustainable management of natural resources, supporting environmental governance, and implementing high-impact national and international projects. The program works closely with public institutions, local communities, research partners, and donors to advance evidence-based environmental management and sustainable development.
https://www.balamand.edu.lb/IOE/Pages/default.aspx

We are seeking a qualified and experienced Administrative Assistant with proven experience in financial management, procurement, reporting, and compliance for EU-funded projects. The officer will support the financial, administrative, and procurement management of ongoing and upcoming projects, ensuring full compliance with university procedures, donor requirements, and EU funding regulations.

What You'll Do

• Manage and monitor project budgets and expenditures, including budget planning, revisions, forecasting, and regular reporting to the Program Director.
• Ensure all financial and procurement documentation is properly recorded, filed, and archived in a clear and auditable manner
• Prepare financial reports, expenditure statements, and supporting documentation, and contribute to periodic donor reporting.
• Ensure compliance with EU financial and procurement rules and identify and address related risks.
• Coordinate procurement processes, including preparation of procurement plans, tender documents, technical specifications, evaluation tools, and contracts.
• Liaise with the services department at the university, suppliers, service providers, consultants, auditors, and project partners as needed.
• Support the organization of meetings, workshops, missions, trainings, and project events, including related financial and logistical arrangements.
• Follow up on staff timesheets, expert contracts, service agreements, travel claims, and payment processing.
• Assist in preparing documentation for internal and external audits, expenditure verification, and first-level control.
• Perform other related financial, procurement, administrative, and technical tasks as assigned by the Program Director.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a passionate and multidisciplinary team.
• Contribute to impactful environmental and development projects.
• Work on internationally funded initiatives with leading partners and institutions.
• Enhance your professional skills in financial and procurement management.
• Competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience, in accordance with university policies.
• Position poised for long-term engagement based on performance and project availability.

Desired Candidate Profile

What We're Looking For

• Advanced University degree (minimum Master degree) in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, Procurement, or any related field.
• Minimum of 5 to 7 years of relevant professional experience in financial management, accounting, procurement, project administration.
• Proven experience in EU funded projects is required; experience with programs such as Interreg, ENI CBC, NEXT MED, Horizon Europe, Erasmus+, LIFE, or similar is a strong asset.
• Good knowledge of EU financial and procurement rules, cost eligibility, audit requirements, and donor reporting.
• Experience in financial reporting, budget monitoring, procurement processes, contract management, and supporting documentation.
• Familiarity with online reporting platforms.
• Excellent command of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Word, and financial tracking tools.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines under pressure.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, with strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Fluency in English and Arabic is required. French is a plus.