Finance Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization that assists people forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or disaster. Established in 1946, NRC has grown to employ approximately 15,000 staff members working in crises across 40 countries. The organization is dedicated to providing life-saving and long-term assistance to millions of people each year, focusing on protecting and assisting vulnerable populations, particularly women and children affected by displacement. NRC operates in various sectors, including education, shelter, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and legal assistance, and aims to meet immediate humanitarian needs while also contributing to durable solutions for displaced individuals. In Afghanistan, NRC is one of the leading humanitarian response agencies, maintaining a presence in 12 offices across 14 provinces with over 1,000 staff members. The organization is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, encouraging employees to share ideas and take responsibility for their work.

Job Overview:
The Finance Manager position at NRC is a critical role within the Afghanistan mission, responsible for establishing and maintaining the country financial setup in accordance with NRC standards. The role requires a hands-on professional who is action-oriented and execution-driven, with a strong background in developing and integrating financial strategies. The Finance Manager will support program and project implementation by ensuring adherence to financial policies, donor requirements, and auditor standards. The position demands a collaborative approach to foster an effective team environment while being innovative and adaptive to the complex humanitarian context in Afghanistan. The Finance Manager will play a key role in monitoring budget control and cash flow, providing financial reports and analyses, and ensuring compliance with anti-corruption policies. This position is particularly suited for individuals who thrive in challenging environments and are committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Manager will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to: ensuring adherence to the Financial Handbook, policies, and donor and auditor requirements; implementing financial systems, routines, and procedures; monitoring budget control and cash flow; providing financial reports and analyses; conducting account reconciliations; developing and updating financial management routines and systems; creating and revising standard operating procedures; implementing anti-corruption policies; and managing and training staff with financial responsibilities. The role also involves collaborating with program teams to ensure financial compliance and support programmatic objectives, as well as engaging with external stakeholders to maintain transparency and accountability in financial operations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Finance Manager position must possess senior financial management experience, particularly in a humanitarian or recovery context. Proficiency in computer software and modern accounting systems is essential, along with exposure to complex and volatile environments, especially those involving displacement-affected populations. The ideal candidate should demonstrate strong analytical skills, a track record of fostering collaboration, and the ability to lead and engage effective teams. Additionally, candidates must have the legal eligibility to work in Afghanistan, as NRC is unable to provide work permits or visa sponsorships for this role.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for the Finance Manager position, typically including a degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field. Advanced qualifications such as a master's degree or professional certifications (e.g., CPA, ACCA) may be preferred, reflecting a strong foundation in financial principles and practices.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in financial management, ideally within the humanitarian sector. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing financial operations in challenging contexts, demonstrating the ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and implement effective financial strategies. Experience working with displaced populations and understanding the unique challenges they face is highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the Afghan context may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders and beneficiaries.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Kabul, Afghanistan, and is offered as a permanent contract. The role involves approximately 30% travel within the country. The Finance Manager will be classified at Grade 9 in NRC’s National Salary Scale, which includes a competitive compensation and benefits package. NRC is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. The organization emphasizes a culture of empowerment, encouraging employees to share ideas and take responsibility for their work. Candidates are reminded that applications must be submitted through the official NRC application process, and unsolicited applications will not be considered.