Finance Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a prominent Danish international non-governmental organization established to promote and support durable solutions to the challenges faced by refugees and internally displaced people globally. Founded in 1956, DRC operates in over 30 conflict-affected territories worldwide, providing essential assistance to displaced individuals through various means, including shelter, food, income-generating activities, and a wide range of other support services. DRC emphasizes compliance with its Accountability and Quality Management system, as well as adherence to national legislation, ensuring that its operational systems are reliable and effective. This commitment is crucial for maintaining DRC's reputation as a trustworthy partner for donors and an accountable organization for its beneficiaries.

Job Overview:
The Finance Officer position at DRC is a critical role based in Maiduguri, Borno State, where the officer will report directly to the Finance Manager. The primary responsibility of the Finance Officer is to ensure effective financial and accounting management for the Maiduguri base office. This includes overseeing daily financial operations, maintaining robust internal controls, and ensuring that all financial records are accurately managed and archived in a timely manner. The Finance Officer will also play a key role in financial monitoring, capacity building of staff, and implementing sound financial management practices. Adherence to DRC and donor guidelines is essential, as the Finance Officer's work directly contributes to the overall achievement of DRC's mission and goals. The position requires a proactive approach to financial management, ensuring compliance with established procedures and policies while fostering a collaborative environment within the team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Officer will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to:

• Management of office cash and cash flow forecasts, ensuring timely payments to suppliers and managing cash payments as necessary.
• Accurate recording of all financial transactions in Microsoft Dynamics, ensuring compliance with DRC and donor financial guidelines.
• Monthly accounting management, including reconciliation of assets and liabilities, and ensuring timely payments to suppliers.
• Archiving of finance records, ensuring proper documentation and timely transfer to the archive room.
• Management of tax deductions and remittances, ensuring compliance with local tax regulations and maintaining good relationships with tax offices.
• Participation in audit preparations and execution, providing necessary data and records during audits, and reporting any irregular spending.
• Providing technical support to the program team and participating in regular staff meetings to align on performance management and task reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 3 years of relevant professional experience in general accounting, finance, and clerical roles, preferably within an international non-governmental organization (INGO). Strong teamwork skills are essential, as the Finance Officer will need to work closely with colleagues to achieve shared objectives. The ability to plan, organize, prioritize, and deliver results under pressure is crucial. Candidates should also demonstrate flexibility and enthusiasm as team players, ready to tackle new challenges. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Word, is required, and familiarity with at least two different accounting software systems, including Microsoft Dynamics, is advantageous.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background in finance, accounting, or a related field is required for this position. Candidates should have a solid understanding of financial principles and practices, as well as the ability to apply this knowledge in a practical setting. Professional certifications in accounting or finance would be considered an asset.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in finance and accounting roles, with a preference for candidates who have worked in international non-governmental organizations. Experience in managing financial operations, compliance with financial guidelines, and familiarity with accounting software are essential for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all documentation and communication will be conducted in English. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Nigeria would be considered a valuable asset, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This is a national position based in Maiduguri, Borno State, with a contract length of one year, renewable based on funding availability. The salary and conditions will align with the DRC National salary structure, and local Nigerian terms and conditions will apply. The start date for this position is contingent upon identifying the right candidate. Applications must include a cover letter and an updated CV, and submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the deadline of 31st October 202

• DRC is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, encouraging all qualified internal staff to apply.