Finance Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the Danish Refugee Council (DRC), which is a leading humanitarian organization that works to support refugees and displaced persons. Established in 1956, DRC operates in multiple countries around the world, focusing on providing assistance and protection to those affected by conflict and displacement. The organization is committed to promoting durable solutions for refugees and internally displaced persons, and it employs thousands of staff across various regions, working in collaboration with local partners and stakeholders to deliver effective humanitarian aid and support.

Job Overview:
The Finance Specialist position is a critical role within the Danish Refugee Council, specifically focused on ensuring the effective management of financial functions in Rakhine State, Myanmar. Reporting to the Support Services Manager, the Finance Specialist will be responsible for a range of financial activities including planning, analysis, accounting, payments, payroll, budgeting, financial reporting, and grant financial management. This role requires a strong understanding of financial compliance and the ability to work collaboratively with various teams to ensure that all financial operations are conducted efficiently and in accordance with DRC’s internal controls. The Finance Specialist will also play a key role in capacity building for finance staff and partners, providing technical support and guidance to enhance financial management practices within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities that include supporting the development and implementation of financial management capacity building for staff and partner finance personnel. They will provide technical support and advice to the area finance team, ensuring that financial management procedures and systems are reinforced in compliance with DRC’s Operations Handbook and donor requirements. Key responsibilities include the timely delivery of quality financial reports, ensuring compliance with statutory obligations, conducting monthly financial briefings, maintaining budgetary control, and liaising with program managers on financial issues. The Finance Specialist will also be responsible for collecting cash forecasts, maintaining oversight of funding levels, preparing documentation for financial audits, and contributing to proposal development regarding budgeting. Additionally, they will oversee the month-end accounting cycle, monitor day-to-day accounting functions, ensure timely payments to suppliers, and maintain accurate accounting records in compliance with DRC policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Finance Specialist position must possess a Master’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a professional certification in accounting. A minimum of three years of international practical experience in financial management is required, along with proven experience in managing large budgets and providing technical guidance and training. Familiarity with working alongside national partners and local authorities, as well as experience with relevant donors such as UNHCR, ECHO, SDC, UNICEF, OKF, or NORAD guidelines, is essential. Advanced proficiency in Excel and full professional proficiency in English are mandatory, along with fluency in the local language.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field. Alternatively, candidates may hold a professional certification in accounting, which demonstrates their expertise and knowledge in financial management practices. This educational foundation is crucial for the Finance Specialist to effectively manage the financial functions and responsibilities outlined in the job description.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of international practical experience in financial management. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing large budgets and providing technical guidance and training to finance staff. Experience working with national partners and local authorities, as well as familiarity with donor guidelines, is also essential for success in this role.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is full professional proficiency in English. Additionally, fluency in the local language is essential, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and partners. Having proficiency in other languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required for the role.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position will be a DRC Regular contract, which includes a three-month probation period. The contract is renewable based on funding availability and performance. The salary and conditions will be in accordance with DRC’s Terms of Employment. This position is classified within Employment Band G2, which is a non-management level. It is important to note that only applicants who can work and be based in Sittwe, Rakhine State, are eligible for this position. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by submitting their application in English by the deadline of 2 September 202

• It is important to note that applications consisting solely of a CV will not be considered, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with shortlisted candidates potentially contacted for interviews before the closing date.