Finance Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization dedicated to assisting individuals who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict and crises. Established to provide life-saving and long-term support, NRC operates in 40 countries with a workforce of approximately 15,000 staff members. The organization is committed to addressing the urgent needs of displaced populations, particularly in regions facing severe humanitarian challenges. NRC's mission is to ensure that displaced individuals receive the necessary assistance and protection, and it actively works to uphold their rights and dignity in the face of adversity.

Job Overview:
The Finance Advisor position is crucial for ensuring that the financial operations within the organization adhere to NRC's established standards and guidelines. This role involves supporting the implementation of programs and projects while managing specific areas of financial responsibility. The Finance Advisor will work closely with program managers to develop budget proposals, maintain budgetary control, and prepare financial reports. The position requires a proactive approach to financial management, ensuring compliance with donor requirements and NRC policies. The Finance Advisor will also play a key role in training and supporting finance staff, facilitating their understanding of budgeting and financial reporting processes. This position is essential for maintaining the financial integrity of NRC's operations in South Sudan, where the need for humanitarian assistance is critical.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Advisor will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: implementing NRC's financial systems and procedures at the area level; ensuring adherence to NRC policies, handbooks, guidelines, and donor requirements; supporting line managers in procedural compliance and providing necessary training to support teams; preparing donor budgets and financial reports; reviewing and approving purchase requests; assisting field office finance staff with budgeting, monitoring, spending plans preparation, and financial reporting; facilitating finance induction and training on NRC budgeting and monitoring tools; collaborating with managers on the development of budget proposals; establishing financial reports and budgets in collaboration with the Finance Manager or Financial Controller; maintaining budgetary control and preparing regular budget vs. actual reports; conducting meetings to discuss financial performance; allocating shared costs such as salaries and rent; providing financial support and training to both finance and non-finance staff; assisting in the preparation and update of the Master Budget; preparing financial analyses for the Finance Manager; and ensuring the proper archiving of financial documents, including electronic copies of monthly payment vouchers.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Finance Advisor position must possess a university degree in finance or a related field. A minimum of five years of experience working as a senior coordinator" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">finance coordinator or advisor in a humanitarian or recovery context is required. Applicants should have a proven track record of documented results related to the responsibilities of the position. Strong financial and analytical skills are essential, along with experience in preparing budgets and budget monitoring reports. Candidates should have sound knowledge of accounting principles and standards, as well as experience with donor budgeting and reporting, particularly with organizations such as ECHO, SIDA, NMFA, UNHCR, and the EU. Familiarity with large, complex, or multi-applicant projects that have strict donor regulations is highly beneficial. Additionally, understanding and experience using accounting software such as Agresso/Unit4 is an advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Finance Advisor position includes a university degree in finance, accounting, or a related field. This foundational education is critical for understanding the complexities of financial management within a humanitarian context. Candidates should have a strong grasp of financial principles and practices, which will be essential for effectively managing budgets and ensuring compliance with donor requirements.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in finance, specifically in a senior coordinator or advisor role within a humanitarian or recovery context. Candidates should have experience working in complex and volatile environments, demonstrating the ability to adapt to changing circumstances and manage financial operations effectively. Documented results related to the responsibilities of the position will be a key consideration during the selection process.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with team members, stakeholders, and donors. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly if they enhance the ability to engage with diverse populations in South Sudan.

Additional Notes:
The Finance Advisor position is based in Juba, South Sudan, and is offered as a national contract for a duration of 12 months. The role involves approximately 30% travel, which may include visits to field offices and project sites. The salary and benefits for this position are classified at grade 8 on NRC's national salary scale. NRC is committed to being an equal opportunities employer, promoting diversity without distinction to age, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, and physical ability. The organization encourages innovative thinking and empowers employees at all levels to take responsibility and share their ideas. Candidates must have the legal right to work in South Sudan, as NRC will not sponsor visas or work permits. Incomplete applications or those that do not meet the minimum standards in terms of experience or qualifications will not be considered.