Long-term Advisor in Public Financial Management

Job Posting Organization:
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is a global organization established in 1944 with the mission to promote international monetary cooperation, facilitate balanced growth of international trade, and provide resources to member countries in need. The IMF has a diverse workforce of over 2,700 employees from around the world, operating in 190 countries. Its primary goal is to ensure the stability of the international monetary system, which includes exchange rates and international payments, allowing countries to transact with each other. The IMF provides financial assistance, policy advice, and technical assistance to its member countries, helping them to achieve macroeconomic stability and sustainable growth.

Job Overview:
The position of Long-term Advisor in Public Financial Management (PFM) at the IMF's Regional Capacity Development Center for West Africa (AFRITAC West) in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, is a critical role aimed at enhancing the capacity of member countries in the West Africa Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU). The Advisor will focus on providing capacity development support in key areas such as treasury management and government accounting. This includes cash flow forecasting and management, the establishment of a treasury single account, integration of cash and debt management, and the development of computerized systems for accounting and treasury management. The Advisor will also be responsible for designing and delivering workshops and seminars to strengthen the skills and knowledge of government officials in these areas. The role requires close collaboration with other technical partners and stakeholders to ensure a cohesive approach to capacity development in public financial management across the region. The Advisor will have the opportunity to work at a senior level, advising governments and contributing to the implementation of PFM reforms that enhance budgetary practices and public accounting standards in the member countries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Long-term Advisor will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Providing expert advice and capacity development support in treasury management and government accounting to member countries.
• Designing and delivering training workshops and seminars focused on treasury management, cash flow forecasting, and accounting practices.
• Coordinating capacity development activities with other technical partners and stakeholders involved in public financial management.
• Developing and implementing a work program under the guidance of the Fiscal Affairs Department (FAD) headquarters and the center director.
• Traveling frequently to member countries to assess needs, deliver training, and provide on-the-ground support.
• Recruiting and supervising short-term experts for targeted assistance on specific topics related to treasury and accounting.
• Reporting on daily activities and progress to the director of the center.
• Engaging with national authorities and donors to maintain effective relationships and facilitate knowledge transfer.
• Handling sensitive issues with discretion in a multicultural environment. 1
• Contributing to the overall mission of the IMF in promoting sound public financial management practices in the region.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant field, along with a minimum of 4 years of professional experience in public financial management. Preference will be given to candidates with at least 10 years of extensive practical experience in a senior or advisory role within a ministry of finance or in delivering capacity development in public financial management. Candidates should demonstrate excellent written and oral communication skills in French, with a working knowledge of English. Proficiency in computer applications such as Word, PowerPoint, and Excel is essential, along with experience in project management. Strong interpersonal skills, the ability to work collaboratively in a team, and the capacity to effectively transfer technical knowledge are crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A university degree or equivalent qualification in finance, economics, public administration, or a related field is required for this position. Advanced degrees or specialized training in public financial management or related areas will be considered an asset.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 4 years of relevant professional experience, with a strong preference for those who have at least 10 years of experience in senior or advisory positions within ministries of finance or in delivering capacity development in public financial management. Experience in managing and overseeing capacity development work, particularly in West African countries, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, as the primary working language will be French. A working knowledge of English is also required to facilitate communication with international partners and stakeholders. Additional language skills relevant to the region may be considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
The term of appointment for the Advisor will initially be for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on satisfactory performance. This position is not based at the IMF Headquarters in Washington, DC, and the application deadline is set for 11:59 PM local time of the job location. All applicants must include a Statement of Interest as part of their application, which may be used in the screening process. The IMF is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and welcomes requests for reasonable accommodations for disabilities during the selection process.