Finance Compliance Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
Relief International (RI) is an international non-profit organization that partners with communities impacted by conflict, climate change, and disaster to save lives, build greater resilience, and promote long-term health and wellbeing. Established with a mission to provide essential services and support to vulnerable populations, RI has grown to employ over 7,000 staff and local volunteers. The organization operates in 15 countries across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, focusing on Health and Nutrition, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), Education, and Livelihoods programming. RI emphasizes the importance of working with local actors to develop safe, inclusive, and evidence-based programming that is sensitive to conflict and climate issues, ensuring that assistance reaches those in need. RI is an alliance of four organizations—Relief International, Inc., Relief International-France, Relief International-UK, and Relief International Europe—operating under a unified leadership structure to enhance its impact and effectiveness.

Job Overview:
The Finance Compliance Specialist will work under the direct supervision of the Finance Manager and will be primarily responsible for monitoring compliance with Relief International's financial policies. This role is crucial for enhancing internal control methods, ensuring adherence to donor regulations and guidelines, and maintaining compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). The Finance Compliance Specialist will oversee all accounting and financial reporting functions, including accounts receivable and payable, payroll processes, and audit readiness. This position will serve as the main Audit Focal Point, ensuring that all supporting documentation is compliant and that all transactions are backed up appropriately to maintain a proper audit trail. The role requires a high level of accountability, integrity, and adaptability to navigate the complexities of financial management within the organization and effectively contribute to its mission and impact.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Compliance Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: managing the NetSuite accounting system for the Syria mission, reviewing and approving accounting entries, reconciling monthly financial statements, overseeing accounts payable and receivable, and ensuring compliance with financial procedures. The specialist will prepare monthly cash forecasts, manage cash flow across all offices, and ensure that all financial records are archived electronically. Additionally, the role involves training finance staff on accounting standards and compliance, preparing for audits, and coordinating with various stakeholders, including local tax authorities and banks. The specialist will also be responsible for ensuring that all financial procedures align with RI policies and donor regulations, checking procurement and financial documents, and coordinating with the HR team on payroll matters.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, business administration, engineering, or a related field. A minimum of four years of professional experience in finance, particularly within international non-governmental organizations (INGOs), is required. Proficiency in computer applications, especially Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook, is essential. Candidates must demonstrate professional-level oral and written fluency in both Arabic and English. Experience with CPA, social insurance, government reporting, and managing project budgets is also necessary. The ability to work under pressure, solve complex financial challenges, and maintain high standards of integrity and accountability is crucial for this role.

Educational Background:
The position requires a bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, business administration, engineering, or a related field. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding financial principles, accounting practices, and the regulatory environment in which Relief International operates.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least four years of relevant professional experience in finance, specifically within the context of international non-governmental organizations (INGOs). This experience should include familiarity with financial compliance, audit processes, and the management of project budgets and resources. Experience in working with both internal and external audits is highly desirable, as is a background in double-entry accounting systems.

Languages:
Fluency in both Arabic and English is mandatory for this position, as the role requires effective communication with local stakeholders, team members, and international partners. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Damascus, Syria. The closing date for applications is April 19, 202

• Relief International is committed to safeguarding all individuals encountered through its work and expects all staff and volunteers to uphold the values and behaviors outlined in its Code of Conduct. Recruitment for all roles includes a criminal records self-declaration, references, and other pre-employment checks, which may include police and qualifications checks. The organization values integrity, adaptability, collaboration, inclusivity, and sustainability in its operations.