Partnerships Finance Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has been operational in Syria since 2012, focusing on providing essential services such as protection, health, economic recovery, and early childhood development. The organization has a robust presence in various regions including Idleb, Aleppo, Ar-Raqqa, Hassakeh, and Deir ez-Zor, and is expanding its programs into Hama, rural Damascus, and Homs. With a dedicated team of over 750 employees, the IRC has built strong community relationships and trust, which are crucial for effective service delivery. The organization plays a pivotal role in Syria's NGO landscape, actively participating in donor and coordination forums, and adapting its strategies to meet the evolving needs of the region. As of December 2024, the IRC has initiated operations in Damascus to enhance its reach and coordination in newly accessible areas across Syria, including parts of Northeast and Northwest Syria, as well as other previously unreachable locations in South and Central Syria. This adaptability is essential for maximizing coverage and operational efficiency in a challenging environment.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships Finance Manager is tasked with overseeing the financial management of the IRC's partnerships within the Syria country program. This role is critical in establishing a robust financial structure and systems that align with the strategic ambitions of the partnerships. The manager is responsible for ensuring that financial agreements with partners are managed effectively, which includes facilitating timely payments and resolving any financial management challenges that may arise. Acting as the primary contact for financial and compliance matters within the Partnerships Department, the manager ensures high-quality financial monitoring and support for partners. This position also involves collaborating with the Audit & Accounting Coordinator to develop and implement capacity-building initiatives for partners, thereby enhancing their financial management capabilities. The Partnerships Finance Manager reports directly to the Audit & Accounting Coordinator and plays a vital role in ensuring the financial integrity and compliance of partnership agreements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Partnerships Finance Manager has a comprehensive set of responsibilities that include: participating in the review and modification of partner proposals, focusing on budget accuracy and compliance; providing guidance to sub-awardees on budget drafting and submission; ensuring timely financial management of partnership agreements; verifying partners' financial reports and ensuring compliance with donor regulations; maintaining proactive communication with partners regarding financial report submissions; conducting financial monitoring and spot checks; reconciling partnership advances and reporting on overdue advances; ensuring all financial documentation is organized and audit-ready; collaborating on internal and external audits; conducting Partnership Capacity Analyses for potential and existing partners; contributing to partnership project meetings; measuring training progress for financial capacity building; hiring and supervising team members; developing remote management strategies; and promoting staff well-being and career growth.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Partnerships Finance Manager position should possess strong financial management skills, with a deep understanding of budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance with donor regulations. They should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with partners and team members. The ability to analyze financial data and provide actionable insights is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate strong organizational skills and the capacity to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency in financial software and tools is required, along with a commitment to the mission and values of the IRC.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field is required for this position. A master's degree or professional certification in finance or accounting (such as CPA or ACCA) is preferred and may enhance a candidate's qualifications.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 5 years of experience in financial management, preferably within the NGO sector. Experience in managing partnerships and working with diverse stakeholders is highly desirable. Familiarity with the financial regulations and compliance requirements of international donors is essential, as is experience in capacity building and training.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in Arabic is highly desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local partners and stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Syria. The IRC is committed to recruiting both nationally and internationally, and candidates should be prepared for the challenges of working in a complex and dynamic environment. Compensation and benefits will be commensurate with experience and in line with IRC policies. The organization emphasizes the importance of staff care and well-being, promoting a healthy work-life balance and providing support for career growth.