Finance Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established with a mission to address interrelated development challenges, FHI 360 employs experts across various fields including health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, civil society, gender, youth, research, and technology. The organization operates in over 70 countries and all U.S. states and territories, showcasing a diverse workforce committed to making a positive impact globally.

Job Overview:
The Finance Assistant position at FHI 360 is crucial for supporting the financial operations of a project aimed at enhancing nutrition, neonatal, maternal, and child health outcomes in Mozambique. The role involves working closely with the Finance Officer to ensure the smooth processing of financial transactions, maintaining accurate accounting records, and ensuring compliance with both organizational policies and local regulations. The Finance Assistant will be responsible for managing day-to-day financial operations, which includes processing payments, maintaining financial documentation, and supporting compliance with donor regulations. This position is based in Quelimane, Zambezia province, and requires a proactive approach to financial management, ensuring that all financial activities align with FHI 360's standards and the expectations of the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Assistant will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including but not limited to: processing and initiating payments through online banking, ensuring all transactions have the necessary supporting documentation and approvals; maintaining updated cashbooks, ledgers, and financial trackers; entering and suggesting payments in the accounting system accurately and timely; ensuring accurate accounting records of financial transactions; monitoring and reconciling Accounts Payable (AP); reconciling vendor accounts and following up on outstanding balances; tracking staff and government advances and ensuring they are properly closed within the established period; organizing, filing, and archiving all financial documentation (both physical and electronic); maintaining complete and compliant documentation for audits and donor reviews; preparing bank and petty cash reconciliations; performing weekly cash counts; and supporting monthly financial close activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field. A minimum of 4 years of professional experience in financial management or accounting within international organizations, NGOs, or donor-funded projects is required. Demonstrated experience in applying international donor financial regulations, particularly those of USAID, is essential. Experience in subaward or grant financial management is considered an advantage. A strong knowledge of Mozambican tax and financial legislation is necessary, along with experience working with financial management systems and internal controls.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field. This educational background is crucial as it provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding financial principles and practices relevant to the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 4 years of relevant professional experience in financial management or accounting, particularly within international organizations, NGOs, or donor-funded projects. This level of experience is essential to ensure that the candidate is well-versed in the complexities of financial operations in a development context and can navigate the specific challenges that may arise in such environments.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication in the region. Additionally, a basic knowledge of English is required, which will facilitate communication with international stakeholders and enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse teams and resources.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Quelimane, Zambezia province, and may involve travel requirements of about 50%. The job is full-time, and FHI 360 is committed to equal opportunity and affirmative action, ensuring that all employment practices are free from discrimination. The organization also emphasizes safeguarding and has policies in place to prevent abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments. Compensation for this role will align with the local compensation structure based on the country location of the job.