Finance and Management Services Team Lead

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 eradicating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP is recognized for its efforts and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for its work in combating hunger and promoting peace. The organization values diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for positions within its ranks. WFP is committed to creating a healthy and inclusive work environment, where employees can thrive and contribute to the organization's mission.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Management Services Team Lead position is a critical role within the WFP Côte d’Ivoire Country Office (CICO). The incumbent will report directly to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director and will be responsible for leading the finance and management services team. This role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including financial management, budget oversight, administrative support, and risk management. The job holder will operate with minimal supervision, guiding junior staff and ensuring that operational and project objectives are met. The position requires a proactive approach to monitoring budgets, forecasting, analyzing financial data, and reporting on financial performance. The Team Lead will also oversee the Management Services portfolio, which includes assets, facilities, fleet management, travel, and general services, ensuring that all services are delivered efficiently and effectively to support WFP's mission. The role is designed for a candidate who is not only skilled in finance but also possesses strong leadership qualities to foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement within the team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Finance and Management Services Team Lead include, but are not limited to:

• Leading the finance and management services team, providing guidance and support to junior staff.
• Monitoring and analyzing budgets for new and ongoing projects, ensuring compliance with corporate governance requirements.
• Performing bank reconciliations, cash management, and monthly financial closures.
• Delivering core administrative services and managing contracts and vendor performance.
• Establishing and maintaining risk management activities, ensuring compliance with policies and procedures.
• Analyzing and reporting on key financial data to inform management decisions.
• Representing WFP in internal and external meetings, including with other UN agencies and financial institutions.
• Supporting corporate finance and resource management strategies and contributing to the development of country-specific plans.
• Guiding the team in embedding risk management in planning and decision-making processes. 1
• Ensuring business continuity and emergency readiness for finance and management services. 1
• Building team capabilities through coaching and targeted training. 1
• Performing other duties as required to support the overall mission of WFP.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Finance and Management Services Team Lead position should possess the following qualifications:

• Advanced University degree in Finance, Business Administration, Accounting, or related fields. Alternatively, a First University degree in the same subjects with additional years of relevant work experience and membership in a recognized professional accountancy body (e.g., ACCA, CPA).
• Strong understanding of financial management principles, budgeting, and accounting practices.
• Proven experience in risk management and compliance, with a focus on internal controls.
• Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial data and provide actionable insights.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience in coaching and developing staff in multicultural environments.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Commitment to WFP's values and mission, with a focus on delivering results and improving service quality.

Educational Background:
Candidates must 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:
The position requires a minimum of three years of professional experience in finance, budget management, and administration. Candidates should have experience in reviewing and analyzing financial statements, implementing accounting and internal control processes, and managing budgets and forecasts. Experience in leading compliance and risk management initiatives, as well as overseeing elements of the Management Services portfolio, is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should have a proven track record of supervising and coaching teams in multicultural environments and driving process improvements.

Languages:
Fluency in both French and English is mandatory for this position, with a proficiency level of C. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication within the diverse WFP team and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, and is a full-time role. The deadline for applications is set for 7 September 2025 at 23:59 GMT. WFP offers an attractive compensation package, which includes various benefits and opportunities for professional development. The organization is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. All employment decisions are made based on organizational needs, job requirements, merit, and individual qualifications, ensuring an inclusive work environment free from discrimination and harassment.