Risk and Compliance Technical Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a global humanitarian organization that assists people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and disaster. Established to provide aid and support to those in need, NRC operates in numerous countries around the world, focusing on delivering high-quality assistance and defending the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons. The organization is known for its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a supportive culture that encourages professional growth and innovation among its employees. NRC emphasizes safeguarding and has a zero-tolerance policy towards exploitation and abuse, ensuring a safe environment for all individuals involved in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Risk and Compliance Technical Officer will play a crucial role within the NRC's Internal Risk and Compliance unit, working closely with the Head of Support Somalia. This position involves advanced-level professional internal compliance and auditing duties, which are essential for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of NRC's operations. The officer will be responsible for managing a comprehensive compliance and audit program, which includes conducting financial and compliance audits, providing consulting services to NRC's management and staff, and advising on the development of internal controls. The role requires a proactive approach to risk assessment and compliance, ensuring that NRC's operations align with established policies and procedures while also addressing any identified risks.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Risk and Compliance Technical Officer include assisting the Head of Support Somalia in conducting risk assessment exercises at both the Country Office and Area Offices. The officer will carry out ad-hoc system compliance checks across relevant NRC teams, including finance, logistics, administration, and HR, to support the Head of Support. Additionally, the officer will design and deliver training action plans based on audit reports and financial reviews for NRC and its partners. A critical aspect of the role involves reviewing monthly financial vouchers to ensure completeness and compliance with NRC Somalia's policies and procedures. The officer will also assist management in updating the operations manual to enhance internal controls and checks, identify areas of risk exposure, and act as the focal point for external audits. This includes providing necessary documentation and responding to management letters. The officer will ensure that donor funding is utilized according to relevant financing agreements through compliance checks and will communicate the results of these checks through written reports and presentations to the Management Team. Regular travel to NRC Somalia Area and Field Offices will be required to monitor compliance with NRC policies and procedures, and the officer will prepare field mission reports with recommendations for improvements. Furthermore, the officer will assist in promoting anti-corruption, transparency, and cost efficiency awareness across all processes and support the Anti-Corruption and Investigation team in conducting investigations as needed, serving as an appointed investigator in cases of sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA).

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a relevant field, with an MBA or professional certification preferred. A minimum of three years of financial and grants management experience in an international non-governmental organization (INGO) or United Nations (UN) context, particularly in Somalia programming, is required. Candidates should have considerable knowledge of relevant policies, procedures, regulations, and laws, along with excellent working knowledge of Excel and standard accounting packages. Practical experience in hosting and working with external auditors is essential, as is the ability to plan for various scenarios related to audits. Solid experience with Windows-based computer software and modern accounting systems is also necessary, along with excellent project management, accounting, and expenditure verification skills. A keen sense of compliance with policies and procedures is crucial, and knowledge of the humanitarian sector and audit background is an advantage. The ability to work independently while being a strong team player is also important.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field. An MBA or relevant professional certification is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and knowledge in financial management and compliance.

Experience:
The position requires at least three years of relevant experience in financial and grants management, specifically within the context of an INGO or UN operations in Somalia. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of compliance and auditing processes, as well as experience working with external auditors and managing financial operations in a complex environment.

Languages:
While the job posting does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international context of the organization. Knowledge of Somali may be advantageous, as it would facilitate communication within the local context and enhance the officer's effectiveness in the role.

Additional Notes:
The contract period for this position is 12 months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and organizational needs. The salary and benefits will be determined according to NRC's salary scale and terms and conditions. The duty station for this role is Mogadishu, Somalia. NRC reserves the right to verify the identity of its partners and check for any involvement in illegal activities, utilizing electronic screening tools as necessary. All employees are expected to adhere to NRC's Code of Conduct and organizational values, which include dedication, innovation, inclusivity, and accountability. Candidates are encouraged to apply early, as applications may be screened prior to the vacancy deadline, and both email and paper applications will not be considered. Qualified female candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.