Finance Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of achieving Zero Hunger. WFP emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its workforce, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization has received numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, recognizing its efforts in combating hunger and promoting security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security globally. WFP is dedicated to creating a healthy and inclusive work environment that reflects its core values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion. For more information, visit their website at https://www.wfp.org and follow them on social media platforms.

Job Overview:
The Finance Officer position at WFP is crucial for the effective management of financial operations within the organization, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which faces one of the largest hunger crises in the world. The role involves ensuring compliance with financial regulations, managing funds, and overseeing financial reporting processes. The Finance Officer will be responsible for developing and implementing financial policies and procedures, coordinating the finance unit's activities, and providing support to junior staff. This position requires a proactive approach to financial management, ensuring that funds are allocated appropriately and that financial operations align with WFP's mission to provide humanitarian assistance. The Finance Officer will also play a key role in liaising with various stakeholders, including donors and partners, to ensure transparency and accountability in financial dealings. The position offers an opportunity to contribute to meaningful humanitarian efforts while working in a dynamic and challenging environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to:

• Supporting the development and implementation of Standard Operating Procedures, Guidelines, and Policies to enhance financial management and internal controls.
• Leading and coordinating the Finance Unit staff, including task allocations, staff appraisals, coaching, and mentoring.
• Preparing routine and ad-hoc financial reports and analyses for internal and external stakeholders.
• Overseeing the allocation of expenditures to programmatic budgets and ensuring compliance with approved budgets and work plans.
• Managing the Direct Support Costs (DSC) budget and monitoring expenditures on programmatic activity budgets.
• Reviewing staff cost allocations to ensure they are accurately charged to programmatic activities.
• Supporting the continuous review and enhancement of internal controls, including following up on audit recommendations.
• Processing routine payments and acting as an alternate approval signatory when necessary.
• Preparing periodic financial reports and reconciliations. 1
• Representing the Finance Unit at internal and external meetings with other UN agencies and partners. 1
• Guiding and supervising junior staff and supporting them with complex analyses and queries. 1
• Performing other general financial and administrative duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a degree in Business/Public Administration, Finance, Supply Chain, or other relevant fields. They should have excellent analytical, planning, and problem-solving skills, as well as strong report writing abilities. Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs and other related tools is essential. Knowledge of humanitarian aviation activities and/or WFP field operations is desirable. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to WFP's values and mission, showcasing their ability to work in a diverse and multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have an advanced university degree in Finance, Business Administration, Accounting, or related fields. 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:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of professional experience in finance, supply chain, procurement, budget planning, or any relevant field necessary for the specific role. This experience should demonstrate a solid understanding of financial operations and the ability to manage complex financial tasks effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, while knowledge of English at a B level is considered an asset. Proficiency in additional languages may enhance a candidate's application but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is a Fixed Term (FT) contract with a duration of 12 months, renewable based on performance and organizational needs. The role is based in Kinshasa, DR Congo, and offers an attractive compensation package, which will be detailed in the Terms and Conditions section of the vacancy announcement. 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, merit, and individual qualifications.