BRACE Finance Manager

Job Posting Organization:
Save the Children Australia is a prominent not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and communities around the world. Established with a mission to advocate for children's rights, the organization operates in multiple countries, including Tonga, South Sudan, and Cambodia, focusing on various initiatives aimed at enhancing education, health, and safety for children. Save the Children Australia employs a diverse workforce committed to making a significant impact in the lives of vulnerable populations, particularly children. The organization is known for its ambitious and creative approach to problem-solving, striving to create lasting change through community engagement and partnerships with local governments and other stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The BRACE Finance Manager position is a full-time, maximum term role based in Nuku’alofa, Tonga, where the successful candidate will play a crucial role in the financial management of the Building the Climate Resilience of Children and Communities through the Education Sector (BRACE) initiative. This initiative is a multi-country climate adaptation project aimed at embedding climate adaptation into education systems and practices, thereby strengthening the resilience of children and communities. The Finance Manager will work closely with the Project Management Unit (PMU) team to ensure that financial systems and processes are efficient and transparent, supporting the overall delivery of project activities. The role involves leading the development of annual budgets, monitoring budget performance, and providing financial updates to inform decision-making, all while promoting values-based leadership in alignment with the values of the Government of Tonga, Save the Children, and the Green Climate Fund.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Manager will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to: leading the development of annual budgets and financial forecasts in collaboration with the PMU team; monitoring budget performance and providing regular financial updates and advice to inform decision-making; tracking project expenditure against budget forecasts and flagging variances; recommending corrective actions to maintain financial health; ensuring compliance with donor financial regulations, particularly those of the Green Climate Fund; and role modeling the values of the organization. Additionally, the Finance Manager will be expected to engage in strategic financial planning and risk management, ensuring that all financial activities align with the project's goals and objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Finance Manager position must possess a minimum of five years of substantial experience in financial management, particularly within development or donor-funded projects. Strong knowledge of budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance is essential, along with experience in navigating donor financial regulations, especially those related to the Green Climate Fund or similar entities. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as excellent communication and interpersonal skills, enabling them to effectively collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for this 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, CFA) may be advantageous and are often preferred by employers in this sector.

Experience:
The role requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of five years in financial management roles, particularly those that involve working with development or donor-funded projects. This experience should encompass a strong understanding of financial systems, budgeting processes, and compliance with donor regulations, which are critical for the successful management of the BRACE initiative.

Languages:
While the primary language for this position is English, proficiency in Tongan or other Pacific languages is highly desirable and may enhance communication with local stakeholders and communities. Strong communication skills in both written and spoken formats are essential for effective collaboration and reporting.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a maximum term contract, reflecting the project's duration and funding availability. Save the Children Australia encourages applications from Tongan and other Pacific Nationals, promoting diversity and inclusion within the organization. The work environment is described as friendly and flexible, with a strong emphasis on child-friendly practices. Employees will have access to competitive remuneration and internal employment and development opportunities. Additionally, all employees are required to undergo a National Police Check and a Working with Children Check, ensuring a commitment to child safeguarding and safety in the workplace.