Finance Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of alleviating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP's vision is to create a future workforce that is diverse, skilled, and high-performing, working in an inclusive environment that reflects its core values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion. WFP has been recognized for its efforts, being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, and continues to invest in the professional development of its employees through various training and mentorship programs. The organization emphasizes the importance of effective humanitarian assistance and strives to ensure that resources are managed efficiently to meet the needs of beneficiaries.

Job Overview:
The Finance Officer position at WFP is crucial for supporting the stewardship of the organization's resources. This role involves monitoring budgets, forecasting financial data, and reporting on key financial outcomes to ensure compliance with corporate governance requirements. The Finance Officer will contribute to the development of country-specific financial plans aligned with WFP's regional strategies and policies, ensuring that the food assistance needs of beneficiaries are met effectively. The position requires a proactive approach to financial management, including performing bank reconciliations, managing treasury operations, and overseeing financial transactions. The Finance Officer will also be responsible for guiding junior staff, representing the unit in meetings, and ensuring that WFP is prepared to respond to emergencies promptly. This role is integral to maintaining the financial integrity of WFP's operations and supporting the organization's mission to provide humanitarian assistance.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Maintain awareness of corporate finance and resource management strategies and participate in programmatic initiatives using finance expertise.
• Develop country-specific financial plans aligned with WFP strategies to meet beneficiaries' food assistance needs.
• Report on financial status and project outcomes, ensuring compliance with governance requirements.
• Monitor budgets and forecast for ongoing projects according to corporate procedures.
• Perform bank reconciliations, manage disbursements, and oversee cash management and monthly financial closures.
• Manage treasury operations, including monitoring bank accounts and petty cash.
• Handle non-donor grants functions, liaising with HQ for transaction management.
• Prepare accurate financial reports and provide management with resource usage information.
• Support policy improvements to minimize financial risks and enhance operational efficiency. 1
• Deliver financial controls and insights into WFP performance, conducting risk assessments. 1
• Guide junior staff and assist with complex analyses. 1
• Represent the unit at internal and external meetings with partners and financial institutions. 1
• Follow emergency preparedness practices to ensure rapid response capabilities. 1
• Perform additional tasks as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an Advanced University Degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Finance, Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field. A strong understanding of financial management principles and practices is essential. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate proficiency in analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis and reporting, as well as experience in managing financial transactions and budgets. Membership in a recognized professional accountancy body, such as the Association of Chartered Accountants, is considered an advantage. Candidates should also exhibit strong analytical skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
The position requires an Advanced University Degree (Master’s or equivalent) in a relevant field such as Finance, Business Administration, or Accounting. This educational background is essential for understanding complex financial concepts and practices necessary for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of overall experience in finance or related fields, with a minimum of 3 years in a managerial or supervisory capacity. Within this professional experience, at least 1 year must be post-graduation. This level of experience ensures that candidates are well-equipped to handle the responsibilities of the Finance Officer position and contribute effectively to WFP's financial management.

Languages:
Fluency in both spoken and written English and Bangla is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication within the organization and with external partners. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is a Fixed Term contract for a duration of 12 months, based in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. The role is open exclusively to Bangladeshi Nationals. WFP offers a competitive benefits package, including salary, leave, and medical insurance. All application documents will be verified, and discrepancies may lead to disqualification. Candidates are encouraged to apply through the online recruitment system, as CVs or spontaneous applications via email will not be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified, and all employment decisions are based on organizational needs and individual qualifications.