Financial Management Officer (FMO)

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established in 1979, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide, focusing on disaster response, economic development, and community empowerment. The organization partners with local communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger, more resilient communities. In South Sudan, Mercy Corps has been active since 2005, addressing the needs of displaced and disenfranchised populations affected by ongoing conflict. The organization works with various donors, including the UK Department for International Development, Swiss Development Cooperation, and the European Union, to deliver timely humanitarian interventions and improve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and livelihood options for vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The Financial Management Officer (FMO) will play a crucial role in the Sustainable Agricultural Development Project (SADEP), a seven-year initiative aimed at enhancing resilience, food, and nutrition security for rural communities in South Sudan. The FMO will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining robust financial management systems that support the project's objectives. This includes overseeing budgeting, accounting, internal controls, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with donor and organizational requirements. The FMO will provide technical guidance on all financial management aspects, ensuring transparency and efficiency in financial operations. The position requires collaboration with project teams to integrate financial information into project planning and performance monitoring, as well as capacity building for project staff and implementing partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The FMO's duties and responsibilities include:

• Financial Planning and Budgeting: Design, implement, and maintain project budgeting systems to ensure efficient resource allocation. Prepare, review, and monitor project budgets, ensuring alignment with work plans and objectives. Provide guidance on budget planning and financial decision-making.
• Accounting and Internal Controls: Establish and maintain accounting systems in compliance with organizational policies and donor requirements. Implement internal control procedures to safeguard project assets and ensure accuracy in financial transactions. Ensure timely and accurate recording of all financial transactions, including expenditures and grants.
• Reporting and Compliance: Prepare periodic financial reports for management, donors, and external auditors. Ensure compliance with donor regulations and national laws. Facilitate external audits and respond to audit queries and recommendations.
• Capacity Building and Technical Support: Provide financial guidance and training to project staff and partners. Support the Project Manager in integrating financial information into project planning and performance monitoring. Promote knowledge sharing and best practices in financial management across the project.
• Safeguarding Responsibilities: Actively learn about safeguarding and integrate it into work, respecting the dignity and well-being of participants and team members. Encourage openness and communication within the team and promote reporting mechanisms for concerns.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Bachelor's degree in Accounting from a recognized university. Professional qualifications such as CPA, ACCA, or equivalent are mandatory. Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of experience in accounting and financial management, with at least 5 years in donor-funded projects. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and relevant accounting software is essential. Excellent writing, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required, along with strong analytical skills to effectively communicate financial information to diverse audiences.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in Accounting from a recognized institution. Additional professional qualifications such as CPA, ACCA, or equivalent are required to ensure a strong foundation in financial management principles and practices.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 7 years of experience in accounting and financial management, with at least 5 years specifically working on donor-funded projects. This experience should encompass a range of financial management functions, including budgeting, accounting, and compliance with donor regulations.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with donors. Knowledge of local languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Juba, South Sudan, and requires up to 40% field travel to support project delivery, which may include travel to insecure locations with limited amenities. Mercy Corps is committed to ongoing learning, allowing team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. The organization promotes a culture of trust and respect, valuing diverse experiences and perspectives within the team. Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer, committed to providing equal employment opportunities without discrimination based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, marital status, or veteran status. Team members are expected to adhere to the organization's Code of Conduct and safeguarding principles.