Finance Officer

About the role

The Finance Officer maintains sound financial and accounting systems and controls for the country office. The role covers day-to-day finance and accounting tasks such as reviewing and processing payments, preparing financial reports, payroll, reconciliations, accounts payable and receivable, and pipeline analysis.

Key responsibilities

• Record transactions, manage cash, banking, payroll, inventory, receivables and payables, and implement financial policies for operational efficiency
• Set up financial systems in the country office and area program offices in line with the International Finance Manual and donor regulations (cash flow, budgeting, consolidation, internal controls, grant management)
• Process incoming invoices and vouchers, review purchase requisitions and procurement documents, and check agreements and supporting documentation
• Review estimated expenses, consolidate monthly pipelines, follow up on TM1 entries, and ensure variance analysis and monthly pipeline reports are accurate and submitted to HQ on time
• Assist in preparing budgets and budget amendments, prepare audit schedules, support annual and project audits, and implement audit recommendations
• Prepare internal and external financial reports (donor reports, government submissions, IMC schedules) and reconcile them with accounting records
• Plan cash disbursements, prepare weekly and monthly cash flow, and support recording of salaries, taxes and VAT claims
• Work on month-end and fiscal year close, reconcile accounts receivable and payable, and enter accounting entries in Costpoint-Deltek
• Prepare monthly cash on hand and bank reconciliations, cash/bank transaction journals and average exchange rate calculations, and assist senior finance staff with reports

Required profile

• Typically a 4-year university degree in Accounting, Finance or Business Administration; equivalent education and experience may substitute
• Typically 3+ years of relevant, progressive finance/accounting experience
• Preferred: knowledge of donor regulations (USAID, DFID, ECHO, UN donors), experience with INGOs, and ability to work independently with minimal technical support
• Fluency in written and spoken English; additional language skills may be required depending on the post and country

Required skills

• Knowledge of accounting principles and accountability practices
• Experience with computerized accounting systems; ERP experience preferred
• Ability to coordinate work under tight, conflicting deadlines and in a multi-cultural environment