Financial Analyst (Internal Control Analyst)

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT is a cutting-edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow’s problems today. Established to foster improved quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops through applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South. CIMMYT builds strong partnerships that enhance the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers while working towards a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries. As a core CGIAR Research Center, CIMMYT is part of a global research partnership aimed at achieving a food-secure future, dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and improving natural resources. For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

Job Overview:
CIMMYT is seeking a dynamic, self-motivated, and service-oriented professional for the position of Financial Analyst (Internal Control Analyst) to work in the Finance Department. This position will be based at CIMMYT’s headquarters in Texcoco, near Mexico City. The Financial Analyst will play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity of financial operations and compliance with internal controls. The successful candidate will be responsible for performing walkthroughs and testing of internal controls based on the risk matrix to identify key risks, gaps, and areas for improvement. They will validate expense transactions and documentation to ensure compliance and accuracy, particularly within the procure-to-pay cycle and provision process. The role requires active engagement with regional teams to support the implementation and strengthening of internal controls aligned with institutional and donor requirements, as well as monitoring internal and external audit observations and supporting the implementation of corrective actions. The Financial Analyst will also assist during audits and provide support in preparing documentation and responses, collaborate on risk assessments and updates required by the Risk Management Unit, and contribute to finance quality assurance efforts by reviewing and updating procedures and identifying improvement opportunities. Providing responsive and respectful support to users across all levels is essential, ensuring professional handling of compliance-related queries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Financial Analyst (Internal Control Analyst) will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to: performing walkthroughs and testing of internal controls based on the risk matrix to identify key risks, gaps, and areas for improvement; validating expense transactions and documentation to ensure compliance and accuracy, especially within the procure-to-pay cycle and provision process; actively engaging with regional teams to support the implementation and strengthening of internal controls aligned with institutional and donor requirements; monitoring internal and external audit observations and supporting the implementation of corrective actions; assisting during audits and providing support in preparing documentation and responses; collaborating on risk assessments and updates required by the Risk Management Unit; contributing to finance quality assurance efforts by reviewing and updating procedures and identifying improvement opportunities; providing responsive and respectful support to users across all levels; coordinating and following up on findings reported in the Internal Control Certification process with Country Offices; conducting periodic reviews of partner financial reports and compliance; and participating in ad hoc projects or assignments as delegated by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field as a minimum qualification. Additionally, candidates must have a minimum of 3 years of experience in auditing, internal controls, or compliance, preferably in accounting firms or similar roles. A strong knowledge of expenses review, procure-to-pay processes, fixed assets, subgrants, payroll, and donor financial reporting is essential. The selected candidate must exhibit a proactive, hands-on approach and must be dynamic and action-oriented, rather than desk-bound. Advanced proficiency in English (minimum CEFR C1) is required, with fluency in both written and spoken communication to be tested. A solid understanding of internal control frameworks such as COSO and SOX, as well as risk matrices, is necessary. Proficiency in Excel and experience with ERP systems (D365) and tools like MAVIM are considered a plus. Candidates should also be technologically inclined and proactive in learning and applying system-based controls. Professional certifications such as CPA, CIA, or CFE are a strong advantage. The selected candidate must also exhibit critical thinking, communication, teamwork, client orientation, problem-solving, and decision-making competencies.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. This educational background is crucial as it provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding financial principles, internal controls, and compliance requirements that are essential for the role of Financial Analyst (Internal Control Analyst).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in auditing, internal controls, or compliance. This experience should preferably be gained in accounting firms or similar roles where the candidate has developed a strong understanding of financial processes and internal control frameworks. The selected candidate should demonstrate a proactive and hands-on approach to their work, indicating a level of experience that allows them to effectively engage with various teams and stakeholders.

Languages:
Advanced English proficiency is mandatory, with a minimum level of CEFR C

• Candidates must demonstrate fluency in both written and spoken communication, which will be tested during the selection process. While English is the primary language required for this position, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly stated as a requirement.

Additional Notes:
CIMMYT offers an attractive remuneration package and support for continuous professional development. In addition to the provisions of the Mexican Labor Law, the benefits package includes a year-end bonus equivalent to 40 days of salary, a vacation premium of 56%, life and medical insurance, supermarket coupons, a savings fund, and social benefits in accordance with Mexican regulations (IMSS, SAR / Infonavit). The position is full-time and based in Texcoco, Mexico.