Financial Management Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a unique global partnership of five institutions established with the mission to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. It is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, helping to solve the world’s greatest development challenges. The organization has 189 member countries and operates more than 120 offices worldwide, focusing on public and private sector partnerships, investing in groundbreaking projects, and utilizing data, research, and technology to bring about transformative change globally. The World Bank Group aims to foster sustainable growth, job creation, poverty reduction, economic and social inclusion, and good governance, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa region, which includes Afghanistan and Pakistan, serving a total of 22 countries with a commitment of over $51 billion across 251 projects.

Job Overview:
The Financial Management Specialist (FMS) position is critical for ensuring that World Bank-financed activities in Afghanistan are implemented with sound financial management arrangements that are risk-based and context-appropriate. The FMS will provide hands-on technical leadership, fiduciary oversight, and operational support across the Afghanistan portfolio. The role involves strengthening financial management supervision and advisory support, applying UN fiduciary frameworks effectively, designing and overseeing Third-Party Monitoring arrangements, and supporting efficient, transparent, and accountable last-mile payment mechanisms. The FMS will report to the Practice Manager – Governance and work closely with Task Team Leaders, Country Office management, and external partners, including UN agencies and third-party monitoring providers. The overarching goal is to maintain high standards of transparency, accountability, and fiduciary assurance in all financial management activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Financial Management Specialist will perform a variety of duties under the supervision of the Practice Manager – Governance, including: conducting financial management assessments during project preparation and implementation; providing ongoing support and supervision for financial management; reviewing and analyzing financial reports from implementing partners; assessing internal control systems and recommending corrective actions; serving as the primary FM focal point for UN-implemented operations; applying and interpreting fiduciary frameworks; designing and overseeing Third-Party Monitoring arrangements; providing technical expertise on Afghanistan’s financial and banking system; advising on innovative last-mile payment solutions; managing fiduciary risks and providing timely advice to management; supporting capacity building of implementing partners; and upholding the highest standards of professional integrity and accountability.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Public Financial Management, Economics, or a closely related field. Professional certification such as CPA, ACCA, CA, CIA, CFE, or equivalent is considered an advantage. The role requires strong analytical, problem-solving, and judgment skills, as well as the ability to translate policy frameworks into practical solutions. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory, and local language skills are an asset. Strong stakeholder engagement and coordination skills are essential, along with the ability to work independently under pressure and as part of multidisciplinary teams.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Accounting, Finance, Public Financial Management, or Economics. Additionally, having a professional certification in accounting or finance is highly advantageous and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant post-qualification experience in financial management, with significant exposure to the public sector and hands-on work with development partner-financed operations. A minimum of 8 years of experience is suggested to ensure consistency across roles. Extensive experience working with United Nations agencies and international NGOs is required, particularly in financial reporting, audit arrangements, and assurance frameworks. Proven experience in applying the Financial Management Framework Agreement (FMFA) and the Fiduciary Principles Accord (FPA) is essential, along with a strong understanding of Afghanistan’s financial and banking system and experience in designing last-mile payment solutions. Experience in fragile and conflict-affected settings is strongly preferred.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, with proficiency in Dari also required. Knowledge of Pashto is considered a preferred asset, enhancing communication and engagement with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 5 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 being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The role emphasizes the importance of professional integrity, confidentiality, and independence, aligning with the values of the World Bank Group.