Finance & Administration Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization established to assist people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and disaster. With a workforce of approximately 15,000 employees, NRC operates in 40 countries worldwide, providing life-saving assistance and long-term support to millions of individuals each year. The organization is committed to upholding human dignity and advocating for the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons, ensuring that they receive the necessary aid and protection in times of crisis.

Job Overview:
As the Finance & Administration Manager at NRC Belgium, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the efficient and compliant operation of NRC Europe’s financial, administrative, ICT, and HR functions. This position involves leading financial planning and reporting, managing office resources, and ensuring adherence to internal policies and Belgian legal requirements. You will act as a key liaison for audits, governance, payroll, IT, and data protection, thereby contributing to operational efficiency, accountability, and effective internal communication across NRC. Your responsibilities will encompass overseeing the day-to-day financial operations, implementing accounting practices, managing HR and payroll matters, and ensuring compliance with Belgian labor and tax legislation. You will also be responsible for budget control, cash flow monitoring, and preparing financial statements, while maintaining transparency and accountability in all financial dealings.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your specific responsibilities will include:

• Overall management of NRC Europe’s finances, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and policies.
• Overseeing the annual audit process and ensuring financial compliance with relevant regulations.
• Managing HR and payroll processes, including recruitment, benefits, and onboarding of new staff.
• Collaborating with external advisory services to ensure compliance with Belgian labor and tax laws.
• Monitoring budget control and cash flows, providing up-to-date analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis and reports.
• Reconciling accounts with NRC in Oslo and field offices.
• Preparing annual financial statements and liaising with NRC Europe’s accountant and auditors.
• Responding to requests from NRC regarding specific projects and financial issues.
• Overseeing office management to ensure efficient operations in Brussels. 1
• Acting as the focal point for IT issues, personal data protection, and logistics. 1
• Managing external business service providers and supporting staff on financial matters. 1
• Performing additional HR, financial, and administrative duties as assigned by the Director.

Required Qualifications:
To be considered for this role, you should possess a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in financial management, preferably within humanitarian international projects and specifically in Belgium. A relevant university degree in business administration or financial management is required, or an equivalent educational background combined with relevant professional experience. Experience with Belgian accounting practices is an asset. You should be a conscientious, rigorous, and structured individual with strong analytical, planning, and administrative skills. Proven budgeting skills and experience in financial report writing are essential, along with relevant HR management experience and a solid understanding of Belgian labor law. Familiarity with EU financial regulations and proficiency in modern accounting systems is also necessary.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a relevant university degree, ideally in business administration or financial management. Alternatively, other relevant educational backgrounds combined with substantial professional experience in financial management will be considered. A strong foundation in accounting principles and practices is essential, particularly in the context of Belgian regulations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in financial management, with a preference for candidates who have worked on humanitarian international projects. Experience in managing finances within the context of Belgian laws and regulations is highly desirable, as is familiarity with EU financial regulations. Candidates should also have experience in HR management and a solid understanding of labor laws in Belgium.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French (or Dutch) is mandatory, both written and verbal. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but English and French (or Dutch) are essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a permanent position based in Brussels, Belgium. The salary will be determined according to NRC’s Resident salary scale, specifically at grade 9, along with accompanying terms and conditions. NRC is committed to diversity and equal opportunities, encouraging applications from individuals regardless of age, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, or physical ability. The organization fosters a culture of empowerment, encouraging employees to share ideas and take responsibility. Candidates should be aware that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted, and applications that do not meet the minimum standards in terms of experience or qualifications will generally not be considered.