Finance Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a global humanitarian organization established to assist people who are forced to flee their homes due to conflict and crises. NRC has a mission to provide high-quality aid and defend the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons. The organization operates in multiple countries around the world, focusing on areas where the need is greatest. NRC is known for its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a supportive culture that encourages professional growth and innovation among its employees. The organization emphasizes safeguarding and expects all employees to contribute to a safe environment free from exploitation and harassment.

Job Overview:
The Finance Officer position at NRC involves implementing financial systems and procedures in accordance with the Financial Handbook and NRC policies at the office level. The role requires preparing bank accounts and cashbox reconciliations, verifying vouchers and supporting documents to ensure they meet NRC standards before payment, and ensuring timely payments for staff salaries, contractors, suppliers, and other expenditures. The Finance Officer is responsible for maintaining sufficient cash in the bank and cash boxes, preparing monthly financial reports, and ensuring proper filing of all financial documents. Additionally, the officer will support project staff in financial matters, follow up with field office staff on cash advances, and ensure compliance with financial policies and guidelines. The position also involves collaboration with program teams for cash distribution activities and establishing good working relationships with local authorities and stakeholders in the Taungoo area.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Officer will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities including: implementing financial systems and procedures according to NRC policies; preparing bank accounts and cashbox reconciliations; verifying that vouchers and supporting documents meet NRC standards before payment; ensuring timely payment of staff salaries, contractors, suppliers, and other expenditures; maintaining sufficient cash in the bank and cash boxes; preparing monthly financial reports and sending relevant documents to the country office; ensuring proper filing of all financial documents; supporting project staff in financial matters; closely following up with field office staff on cash advances; ensuring all financial payments are documented in SE filing; regularly checking financial documents from field offices for compliance; collaborating with program teams for cash distribution activities; establishing good working relationships with local authorities; supporting the Area Finance team with audit requirements; ensuring valid supporting documents for each entry; managing the financial calendar deadlines; conducting monthly accounting checks; maintaining and monitoring accrued expenditure accounts; and performing weekly and monthly cash counts for cash boxes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Finance Officer position should possess the following qualifications: experience working as a Finance Officer in a humanitarian or recovery context; professional knowledge of auditing; previous experience in complex and volatile contexts; documented results related to the position's responsibilities; and some knowledge of English. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate goal orientation, the ability to work under pressure and independently, flexibility, creativity, and a willingness to contribute to program success.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Finance Officer position typically includes a degree in finance, accounting, or a related field. Candidates with relevant certifications in finance or accounting may also be preferred. A strong understanding of financial management principles and practices is essential for this role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a significant level of experience, specifically in finance roles within humanitarian or recovery contexts. Experience in auditing and working in complex environments is highly valued. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing financial operations and ensuring compliance with financial policies and guidelines.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, as it is essential for communication and documentation. Additional languages relevant to the local context may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to interact with local stakeholders and authorities.

Additional Notes:
This position may involve travel to field locations, and candidates should be prepared to work under challenging circumstances. The role is likely to be full-time, and the organization may consider both national and international applicants. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with NRC's policies and standards, ensuring fair remuneration for the responsibilities undertaken.