Finance Officer

Job Posting Organization:
Relief International (RI) is a humanitarian organization that partners with communities affected by conflict, climate change, and disasters to save lives, build resilience, and promote long-term health and well-being. Established to address the needs of vulnerable populations, RI operates in 14 countries, including some of the most fragile regions such as Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Myanmar, Pakistan, Philippines, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Turkey, and Yemen. The organization comprises four corporate members of the RI Alliance: Relief International Inc., Relief International-UK, Relief International-France, and Relief International-Europe, all operating under a unified management structure. With over 4,000 employees in the Middle East region, RI implements a variety of humanitarian and development programs valued at approximately $70 million annually, focusing on health, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), education, and economic opportunities.

Job Overview:
The Finance Officer position is crucial for the financial operations of the Relief International mission in Damascus. Reporting directly to the Finance Compliance Controller and indirectly to the Finance Manager, the Finance Officer is responsible for ensuring that all financial activities are conducted in compliance with local regulations and organizational policies. This role involves regular communication with finance focal points across various field locations to ensure accurate monthly financial reporting and timely closing of accounts. The Finance Officer will manage all financial transactions, including payments, reconciliations, and reporting, while also ensuring that the finance department operates efficiently and effectively. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including banks and local authorities, to facilitate smooth financial operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: ensuring timely monthly finance closing for the Damascus mission, managing all accounting activities for the Damascus office, processing payments for office and staff, establishing a tracking system for advances, liaising with Regional Support Office for month-end closing, recording payment vouchers in the cash and bank sub-journals, collaborating with banks to resolve payment-related queries, verifying office expenses and processing salary advances, maintaining custody of the petty cash fund, preparing governmental reports as required, and supporting audit missions by providing necessary documentation. Additionally, the Finance Officer will be expected to travel occasionally to field locations for staff gap filling and perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in accountancy, finance, or business management. Professional qualifications such as CMA or ACCA are desirable. A minimum of three years of experience in finance or accounting within international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) is preferred, with specific experience in USAID/OFDA and ECHO funded projects being advantageous. Candidates should have strong analytical skills, advanced proficiency in MS Excel, and a solid understanding of donor compliance and GAAP principles. Excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a team are essential. Familiarity with computerized accounting software, such as NetSuite or ERP systems, is also required.

Educational Background:
The position requires a university degree in accountancy, finance, or business management. Additional qualifications such as CMA or ACCA are considered a plus, indicating a higher level of expertise in financial management and accounting practices.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least three years of relevant experience working in finance or accounting departments, particularly within INGOs. Experience with donor-funded projects, especially those funded by USAID and ECHO, is highly desirable. Candidates should be comfortable with financial reporting and compliance requirements associated with these funding sources.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with international stakeholders. Knowledge of Arabic is highly desirable, given the local context and the need to communicate effectively with local partners and authorities.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Damascus, Syria, and may require occasional travel to field locations. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared to work in a challenging environment. Compensation and benefits will be discussed during the interview process, and the organization is committed to ensuring the safety and safeguarding of the vulnerable communities it serves.