Finance Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global partnership consisting of five institutions dedicated to addressing the most pressing development challenges faced by countries around the world. Established with the mission to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity, the organization operates in 189 member countries and has over 120 offices globally. The World Bank Group is recognized as one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing nations, leveraging data, research, and technology to implement innovative solutions for sustainable development. The organization emphasizes collaboration with both public and private sector partners to invest in transformative projects that aim to improve the quality of life for people in developing regions. For more information, visit www.worldbank.org.

Job Overview:
The Finance Associate position at the World Bank Group is a critical role within the Budget, Performance Review, and Strategic Planning Vice Presidency (BPS). This position is primarily based in the Zimbabwe Country Office, with the potential to support other Country Offices as needed. The Finance Associate will be responsible for a variety of financial functions, including accounting, internal controls, monthly reporting, and the implementation of financial policies and procedures. The role requires a proactive approach to managing budgets and expenses, particularly in the Eastern and Southern Africa Region, as well as the Western and Central African Region. The Finance Associate will work closely with various departments to ensure accurate financial reporting and compliance with established regulations. This position is designed for individuals who are adaptable and willing to take on diverse assignments based on the evolving needs of the organization and their professional development goals. The Finance Associate will also be expected to contribute to the overall financial strategy of the organization by providing insights and analytics that support decision-making processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Associate will assist in the preparation and management of the organization's budget, ensuring that all financial activities are conducted in accordance with established policies and regulations. Key responsibilities include analyzing budgetary data, monitoring expenditure trends, and reporting on variances between actual and budgeted figures. The Finance Associate will collaborate with various departments to gather necessary financial information, assist in forecasting future budgetary needs, and contribute to the development of budgetary strategies and cost-saving measures. Additionally, the role involves ensuring compliance with internal controls and financial reporting standards, as well as supporting the overall financial planning efforts of the organization. The Finance Associate will also be involved in managing bank reconciliations, vendor management, and procurement processes, ensuring that all financial transactions are accurately recorded and reported.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Finance Associate position must possess a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, Management, or a related discipline. Alternatively, candidates with a non-finance Bachelor's degree may qualify if they hold one of the following: CIMA Advanced Diploma in Management Accounting, ACCA Advanced Diploma in Accounting and Business, or an equivalent accounting certification. A minimum of one year of relevant experience in a finance or accounting role is required, with a proven track record of handling transactional-level financial work and supporting business decision-making through relevant analytics. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in financial reporting, budget monitoring, and internal controls, as well as proficiency in relevant computer applications and systems, including Excel and PowerPoint. Familiarity with finance systems such as SAP and BW/AO is advantageous, though not mandatory.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Finance Associate position includes a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Accounting, Business, Finance, or Management. Candidates with a non-finance degree must have additional qualifications, such as a CIMA or ACCA diploma, to meet the position-specific requirements. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of financial management and accounting practices necessary for the role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least one year of relevant experience in a finance or accounting-oriented role. This experience should include a strong understanding of financial reporting, budget management, and internal controls. While direct experience within the World Bank or similar organizations is not mandatory, familiarity with financial processes and systems will be beneficial. Candidates should also demonstrate a capacity for analytical thinking and problem-solving in financial contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for the Finance Associate position, as effective communication is crucial for collaboration with various stakeholders. While proficiency in additional languages is not specified as a requirement, it may be considered an asset in enhancing communication with diverse teams and clients.

Additional Notes:
The Finance Associate position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of three years. The role is full-time, and candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of their nationality, as the World Bank Group is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The closing date for applications is July 24, 2025, at 11:59 PM UTC.