Revenue Accountant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is a renowned research organization that focuses on food policy and agricultural development. Established in 1975, IFPRI aims to provide evidence-based solutions to reduce poverty and enhance security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. With a global presence, IFPRI operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse team of experts dedicated to improving food systems and policies. The organization is committed to conducting high-quality research and fostering partnerships with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to achieve its mission.

Job Overview:
The Revenue Accountant position at IFPRI is a critical role within the Finance and Administration Department, responsible for managing the accounting functions related to project revenue. The successful candidate will report directly to the Accounting Manager and will be tasked with ensuring compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and donor requirements. This role is essential for maintaining the financial integrity of the organization, as it involves analyzing revenue streams, preparing journal entries, and collaborating with various teams to ensure accurate financial reporting. The Revenue Accountant will also play a key role in financial training and capacity-building initiatives, promoting best practices in financial management across the organization. This position is a one-year, renewable appointment based in New Delhi, India, and requires candidates to have work authorization to work in the country.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Revenue Accountant will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities that include managing the calculation of project revenue and the allocation of indirect costs as part of the month-end close process. The role involves analyzing revenue and Project Status Reports (PSRs) to ensure compliance with GAAP and donor requirements, identifying significant surpluses or deficits. The accountant will process cash receipts for incoming payments, ensuring timely and accurate application to the appropriate projects and accounts, while maintaining detailed records for auditing purposes. Collaboration with the Financial Reporting Team, Research Units, and other relevant teams is crucial to investigate and resolve unidentified incoming payments. The accountant will prepare revenue-related journal entries, manage accounts receivable reconciliation with the General Ledger (GL), and follow up on outstanding payments. Additionally, the role includes monitoring project liquidity, conducting monthly reviews of project budgets, and coordinating with the Grants Management team to track technical milestones. The Revenue Accountant will also maintain audit-ready documentation for grant records and support audit preparedness by providing accurate documentation and reinforcing internal controls. Financial guidance and support to unit staff, leading financial training initiatives, and preparing regular co-financing reports are also key responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in accounting along with ten years of relevant experience, or a master’s degree or equivalent certification with seven years of experience. A minimum of two years of management experience is required. The ideal candidate will have strong attention to detail, effective time management skills, and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, at least four years of experience in grant or project accounting is necessary, along with familiarity with US government federal regulations and/or international donors. Knowledge of international banking and currency reconciliation is desirable, as well as excellent customer service and communication skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting software platforms is essential for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Revenue Accountant position includes a Bachelor’s degree in accounting as a minimum qualification. Candidates with a master’s degree or equivalent certification will also be considered, particularly if they have relevant experience in the field. The emphasis on accounting education underscores the importance of a solid foundation in financial principles and practices necessary for effective performance in this role.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically ten years of relevant experience for candidates with a Bachelor’s degree, or seven years for those with a master’s degree or equivalent certification. Additionally, candidates should have at least two years of management experience, demonstrating their ability to lead and oversee financial operations effectively. Experience in grant or project accounting is particularly important, with a minimum of four years required to ensure familiarity with the complexities of financial management in this context.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of the organization and its operations. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly if they facilitate communication with diverse stakeholders and partners in various countries.

Additional Notes:
This position is a one-year, renewable appointment, indicating that there is potential for long-term employment based on performance and organizational needs. The role is full-time and based in New Delhi, India, and candidates must have work authorization to work in the country. The organization values financial transparency and accountability, and the Revenue Accountant will play a vital role in upholding these principles through diligent financial management and reporting.