Finance Officer (Management Services Oversight)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, established to save lives in emergencies and to use food assistance as a means to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. WFP operates globally, with a mission centered around the belief that food is a fundamental human right. The organization is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. WFP has received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, highlighting its significant contributions to humanitarian efforts worldwide. The organization fosters a diverse, inclusive, and multicultural working environment, investing in the personal and professional development of its employees through various training and mentorship programs. WFP operates in numerous countries, providing a unique opportunity for employees to work across different regions and collaborate with passionate colleagues dedicated to effective humanitarian assistance.

Job Overview:
The Finance Officer (Management Services Oversight) position at WFP involves managing the stewardship of the organization's resources through the monitoring of financial and accounting data, analyzing reports, and providing technical advice to ensure effective fund management. The role is crucial for enabling the delivery of quality, customer-focused administrative services that support staff in operations to deliver food assistance to beneficiaries. The incumbent will be responsible for applying WFP's corporate financial management strategies, participating in programmatic initiatives, and collaborating with various functions within the Country Office to embed value for money in these initiatives. The position requires regular visits to Area/Field Offices to clarify and improve the application of policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with corporate governance requirements and financial reporting standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Officer will report to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director and is expected to carry out a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Applying WFP corporate financial management strategies to ROC operations and participating in key programmatic initiatives.
• Conducting regular visits to Area/Field Offices to clarify policies and prepare reports with improvement action plans.
• Leading accurate financial reporting and analyses in accordance with IPSAS, ensuring compliance with accounting processes.
• Providing financial assessments of partners and financial service providers, enabling informed decision-making to minimize financial risks.
• Ensuring regular bank reconciliations, disbursements, cash management, and monthly financial closures.
• Monitoring and analyzing financial data, forecasting trends, and proposing solutions to management.
• Leading a team of finance staff, establishing priorities, and providing coaching and guidance.
• Ensuring regular meetings with banks and financial service providers, representing Finance in internal committees.
• Contributing to preparedness actions such as risk analysis and contingency planning. 1
• Supporting the implementation of cash-based transfer interventions and compliance with WFP procedures. 1
• Guiding the Country Office on financial sector assessments and risk analysis. 1
• Developing annual plans and contributing to long-term strategies for administrative functions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong sense of integrity and ethics, with a minimum of six years of postgraduate professional experience as a Finance Officer. Prior experience in handling administrative functions is considered a plus. The role requires proficiency in financial management and reporting, as well as the ability to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills and the ability to lead and develop a team of finance professionals. Additionally, candidates must have a commitment to WFP's values and mission, ensuring that financial resources are managed effectively to support humanitarian efforts.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in Finance, Business Administration, Accounting, or related fields is required. Alternatively, a first university degree in the same subjects combined with additional years of relevant work experience is acceptable. Membership in an internationally recognized professional accountancy body, such as the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) or the Institute of Certified Public Accountants (ICPA), is also required.

Experience:
The position requires at least six years of postgraduate professional experience in finance, with a focus on financial management and reporting. Experience in administrative functions is advantageous, as the role encompasses both finance and administration responsibilities. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing financial resources effectively and ensuring compliance with corporate governance standards.

Languages:
Proficiency in oral and written communication in both French and English is mandatory for this position. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication within the organization and with external partners, as WFP operates in diverse linguistic environments. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an International Consultant – Level II, with a contract duration of 11 months. The role is based in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo, and involves a full-time commitment. WFP is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. The organization does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process, and all employment decisions are made based on organizational needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks to ensure a safe and inclusive work environment.