Finance Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a humanitarian organization established to help people affected by displacement. Founded in 1946, NRC has grown to become a leading organization in the field of humanitarian assistance, operating in over 30 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on providing aid in various sectors including shelter, education, and legal assistance, with a mission to protect the rights of displaced individuals and ensure their access to essential services. NRC employs thousands of staff globally, working tirelessly to respond to crises and support vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The Finance Officer position at the Norwegian Refugee Council is crucial for the effective financial management of the newly established Area Office North - East (AONE) in Kharkiv, Ukraine. This role involves implementing financial systems in accordance with NRC policies and providing administrative support to project staff. The Finance Officer will play a key role in ensuring that financial operations are conducted smoothly and efficiently, contributing to the overall success of the organization's mission in the region. The position is set to start in February 2026, and the selected candidate will be expected to actively participate in the scale-up of operations in North-East Ukraine, particularly in the Kharkiv and Sumy regions. The Finance Officer will be responsible for maintaining financial integrity and compliance, preparing financial reports, and supporting project staff in financial matters, thereby ensuring that NRC can effectively deliver its humanitarian assistance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Officer will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to: ensuring adherence to NRC policies and guidelines, implementing the financial function portfolio according to the action plan, preparing and developing status reports as required by management, and preparing monthly financial reports. The officer will also support project staff in financial and administrative matters, promote ideas for improving support functions, and contribute to specific protection risks and needs analyses. Specific responsibilities include verifying that vouchers and supporting documents meet NRC standards before payment, managing payments to suppliers and contractors, ensuring timely booking of costs into the financial system, preparing bank account and cashbox reconciliations, assisting in audits and donor report preparations, managing cash and voucher programs, and ensuring proper documentation and tracking of financial transactions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Finance Officer position must possess a range of qualifications, including at least two years of experience working as a Finance Officer in a humanitarian or recovery context. They should have professional bookkeeping and accounting skills, documented results related to the position's responsibilities, and knowledge of English, both written and verbal. Additionally, familiarity with the context in which NRC operates is essential, along with fluency in Ukrainian and Russian. Good computer skills, particularly in MS Office, and experience working with local financial institutions and tax authorities are also required. Experience with the start-up of humanitarian or recovery programs is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Finance Officer position includes a relevant degree in finance, accounting, or a related field. Candidates should have a solid understanding of financial management principles and practices, as well as the ability to apply these in a humanitarian context. Continuous professional development in finance and accounting is encouraged to keep up with best practices in the field.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of two years of relevant experience working in finance, particularly in humanitarian or recovery settings. Experience in complex and volatile contexts is highly valued, as it equips candidates with the skills necessary to navigate the challenges associated with financial management in such environments. Documented results related to the responsibilities of the position will be an important consideration during the selection process.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, both written and verbal. Additionally, candidates must be fluent in Ukrainian and Russian, as these languages are essential for effective communication within the local context and with stakeholders. Proficiency in other languages may be considered an advantage but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and is open to candidates who have the legal right to work in Ukraine. The Norwegian Refugee Council is unable to provide work permits or visa sponsorships for this role. The contract duration and specific terms will be discussed during the interview process. The Finance Officer will be expected to work in a challenging environment, and the ability to handle insecurity and plan effectively will be crucial for success in this role.