Financial Management Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a global partnership of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty and promoting sustainable development. Established in 1944, the organization has grown to include 189 member countries and operates in more than 120 offices worldwide. The World Bank Group is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, working with public and private sector partners to invest in groundbreaking projects and utilize data, research, and technology to address urgent global challenges.

Job Overview:
The Financial Management Specialist (FMS) position at the World Bank is crucial for ensuring fiduciary assurance for the portfolio of World Bank-financed operations, particularly in Ghana, with some support for Liberia and Sierra Leone. The FMS will provide financial management expertise and support to various projects and programs aimed at fostering economic development and improving public financial management. The role requires collaboration with a governance team and regular communication with the Operations Manager regarding financial management performance. The FMS will be responsible for ensuring compliance with World Bank financial management policies and procedures, acting as a core member of project teams, and contributing to governance assessments and strategic discussions on financial management issues.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The FMS will perform a variety of functions, including ensuring compliance with World Bank FM policies, acting as the ADM FMS for operations throughout the project cycle, and reporting any FM compliance issues. The FMS will work closely with project teams, government counterparts, and other stakeholders to ensure effective financial management and accountability. Specific duties include conducting assessments of FM country systems, participating in project identification and appraisal missions, reviewing project internal controls and financial reporting systems, providing training and capacity-building support, and monitoring financial performance to ensure compliance with World Bank policies. The FMS will also contribute to analytical work and technical assistance in public financial management and corporate financial reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field, along with a professional accounting qualification such as CPA or ACCA. Membership in a recognized professional accountancy organization with full IFAC membership is required. Additionally, candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant experience in financial management of recipient-executed operations, strong knowledge of financial management principles, and experience with financial management systems and software. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential, as well as the ability to work effectively in a multicultural and multidisciplinary team environment.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration is required. A professional accounting qualification (e.g., CPA, ACCA) is also necessary, indicating a high level of expertise in financial management and accounting practices.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in financial management, particularly in the context of recipient-executed operations within the World Bank or other international development organizations. Experience as an accountant or auditor in the private sector or public administration is also acceptable. The role demands a strong understanding of financial management principles and practices, as well as experience with financial management systems and software.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. While no additional languages are specified as preferred, proficiency in other languages may be beneficial in a multicultural work environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment role with a term duration of 2 years. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunity for all employees regardless of gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.