Country Finance Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is one of the world’s leading humanitarian NGOs, dedicated to helping refugees and displaced persons. Established in 1956, DRC operates in multiple countries around the globe, focusing on providing assistance to those affected by conflict and displacement. The organization is committed to ensuring the financial health and stability of its operations, fostering strong donor relationships, and supporting localization efforts. DRC employs a diverse workforce and is dedicated to promoting gender equality and inclusivity within its staffing.

Job Overview:
The Country Finance Manager position is crucial for ensuring the financial health and stability of DRC's operations in Ethiopia. This role has a country focus and is responsible for overseeing all finance-related tasks within the geographical area of responsibility, which includes both the country office and field offices. The Finance Manager will contribute to the development of country strategies, translating them into actionable plans and daily tasks. The position requires strong leadership skills to manage the finance team effectively, ensuring compliance with DRC procedures and guidelines while fostering a culture of financial accountability and transparency. The Finance Manager will also provide technical guidance to country operations and support the development of financial management capacity among staff.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The main duties and responsibilities of the Country Finance Manager include:

• People Management: Lead and manage the finance team, including planning, performance management, staff development, and exit management.
• Financial Management and Planning: Oversee the finance department, ensuring compliance with DRC’s Operations Handbook and donor requirements. Support timely delivery of quality financial reports and manage budgetary control across country programs.
• Systems Improvement and Compliance: Ensure the effective use of DRC Dynamics and improve internal office controls. Provide training for finance and non-finance staff on financial management systems.
• Reporting and Analysis: Lead monthly reviews of project expenses, prepare ad hoc reports for senior management, and develop a risk management plan for the country.
• Accounting: Review financial data entries, ensure compliance with contract requirements, and manage payroll and invoices.
• Strategic Decision-Making: Make significant decisions regarding the finance unit's purpose and functions, ensuring alignment with DRC’s strategic goals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in financial management, with at least seven years of experience in complex humanitarian programs. A minimum of five years in senior finance leadership roles is required, along with demonstrated experience in managing multi-million portfolios with complex donor requirements. Candidates should have strong financial management skills, knowledge of international humanitarian organizations, and proficiency in diverse accounting software. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are mandatory, and candidates should be able to work independently while managing multiple priorities.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field is required for this position. Additionally, professional certification in accounting is preferred to ensure a high level of expertise in financial management practices.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least seven years of experience in financial management, particularly within complex humanitarian programs. This includes a minimum of five years in senior finance leadership roles, demonstrating a strong track record of managing financial operations in challenging environments. Experience with budgeting and financial analysis for large international NGOs is essential, as is familiarity with donor financial rules and regulations.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in Amharic is considered an asset, enhancing communication within the local context and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a 12-month contract with the possibility of renewal, classified as an Expat/National role. It is a management position, designated as non-accompanied, with a duty station in Addis Ababa. The expected start date is February 1, 202

• Salary and conditions will be in accordance with DRC’s Terms of Employment for National/International employees. DRC is committed to achieving gender parity and encourages women candidates to apply, as well as qualified Ethiopian and international nationals. The organization values diversity and is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.