Finance and Operations Lead

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization that aims to improve lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions for human development. Established in 1980, FHI 360 has grown to employ over 4,000 staff members and operates in more than 60 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on various sectors, including health, education, and economic development, and is committed to ensuring that its programs are sustainable and effective in addressing the needs of communities.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Operations Lead position is critical for the successful implementation of a five-year USG funded HIV services and health systems activity in Zambia. The primary goal of this initiative is to sustain HIV services by enhancing government-led, cost-effective health systems. The role involves providing operational oversight in financial and human resources management, procurement, logistical services, contracts and grants management, asset management, ICT, and general administration. The Finance and Operations Lead will ensure compliance with CDC’s rules and regulations while overseeing the financial management of the project, including budget management, forecasting, and monitoring expenditures. This position will report directly to the Principal Investigator (PI) and is contingent upon the successful award of the project, with the final selection subject to USG approval.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance and Operations Lead will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: leading the finance and operations unit of the program, establishing transparent accounting and fiscal control procedures, developing and monitoring program budgets, tracking obligations and expenditures, liaising with auditors, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and funder regulations, managing procurement processes, providing technical assistance to local partners, preparing financial reports for CDC, contributing to high-quality work plans, supporting performance management of direct reports, and assisting the PI in project management. The role also requires overseeing administrative functions and ensuring efficient operations in line with FHI 360 policies and funder regulations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field, along with a CPA-K certification. A master's degree is strongly preferred. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 12 years of experience managing donor-funded programs and budgets, with prior experience in a senior leadership role on a PEPFAR or CDC-funded project being highly desirable. Advanced knowledge of accounting software and MS Office applications is essential, as well as a strong understanding of US government rules and regulations for grants and contracts.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field. A CPA-K certification is mandatory, and a master's degree is strongly preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and knowledge in the field.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 12 years of relevant experience in managing donor-funded programs and budgets. Experience in a senior leadership role, particularly as a Finance Director or Business Official on a PEPFAR or CDC-funded project, is preferred. Candidates should demonstrate advanced skills in budget management and financial oversight, particularly for programs with annual budgets exceeding $10 million.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with strong oral, written, and reading skills required. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and is contingent upon the successful award of the project. The role may involve local travel and limited international travel as assigned. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments. The organization conducts thorough screening checks for all employment offers, including reference and criminal record checks. FHI 360 offers a competitive benefits package and supports professional development and work/life balance.