Finance Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is one of the world’s leading humanitarian NGOs, dedicated to helping refugees and displaced persons. Established in 1956, DRC operates in multiple countries across the globe, focusing on providing assistance and support to those affected by conflict and displacement. The organization employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working tirelessly to deliver aid and promote sustainable solutions for vulnerable populations. DRC's mission is to ensure that displaced people can rebuild their lives and regain their dignity, while also advocating for their rights and needs in various contexts.

Job Overview:
The Finance Specialist position at the Danish Refugee Council is a critical role within the Addis Ababa Country Office, focusing on financial management and compliance across a complex multi-donor portfolio. The National Finance Specialist will serve as the technical anchor for donor budgeting and reporting, analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis, and forecasting. This role requires a high degree of independence and the ability to manage remote teams effectively. The Specialist will ensure that financial outputs are timely, accurate, and compliant with donor requirements, while also providing coaching and capacity-building to finance staff and relevant stakeholders. The position plays a central role in coordinating financial aspects of the country’s reporting cycles, ensuring alignment with DRC’s Operations Handbook and donor regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Specialist will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including leading the development of donor proposal budgets and revisions, ensuring compliance with donor rules and internal cost-coverage strategies. The Specialist will own the end-to-end donor financial reporting cycle, producing clear and error-free reports, and ensuring compliance with statutory financial obligations. Additionally, the role involves leading monthly BFU meetings, driving variance analysis, and delivering forward-looking financial insights. The Specialist will also design and enforce quality control checklists, improve shared cost allocations, and ensure thorough budgetary control in the country office. Other responsibilities include strengthening the use of Dynamics ERP, running a financial calendar, providing remote mentoring to finance staff, and preparing documentation for audits.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 3 years of international practical experience in financial management within INGO or humanitarian settings, with at least 3 years of experience leading donor budgeting and financial reporting. Proven expertise in multi-donor environments is essential, along with experience in compliance application. Candidates should have strong financial analysis and forecasting skills, as well as competence in providing technical guidance and training. Proficiency in advanced Excel is required, along with the ability to multitask and deliver results independently. Candidates should also demonstrate a record of achieving high targets in demanding contexts and possess strong problem-solving skills.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in finance, Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field is required for this position. Additionally, a professional qualification such as ACCA, CPA, or CMA is highly desirable, as it demonstrates a commitment to professional development and expertise in financial management.

Experience:
The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in financial management, particularly in international non-governmental organizations or humanitarian settings. Experience leading donor budgeting and financial reporting is crucial, as is familiarity with multi-donor compliance requirements. Candidates should also have experience working with national partners and local authorities, showcasing their ability to navigate complex financial landscapes.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and oral, is mandatory for this position. The ability to produce concise executive notes and communicate effectively with various stakeholders is essential. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if relevant to the local context.

Additional Notes:
The position is a national contract with a duration of 12 months, based in the Addis Ababa Country Office. The contract band is G2, which indicates a non-management designation. The expected start date for this role is April 1, 202

• Salary and conditions will be in accordance with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for National employees. The organization is committed to gender equality and encourages women candidates to apply, as well as qualified Ethiopian nationals. DRC values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer, ensuring a respectful and inclusive environment for all employees.