Finance and Grants Officer

Job Posting Organization:
Action Against Hunger is a global leader in the fight against hunger, dedicated to innovating solutions, advocating for change, and reaching 24 million people annually through proven hunger prevention and treatment programs. Established as a nonprofit organization, Action Against Hunger operates in over 50 countries with a workforce of approximately 8,300 dedicated staff members. The organization focuses on addressing the root causes of hunger, which include climate change, conflict, inequity, and emergencies. Action Against Hunger USA, a part of the international network, manages operations in eight countries, including Zambia, and has a significant presence with over $100 million in programs and around 1,800 permanent staff based in various locations including New York City and Washington D.C. The organization is committed to creating a world free from hunger for everyone and for good, and anticipates further growth in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Grants Officer plays a crucial role in the financial management of Action Against Hunger Zambia. This position is responsible for the day-to-day management of financial transactions and procedures, ensuring that all financial data is accurate and that resources are utilized effectively and efficiently in accordance with organizational policies and donor guidelines. The officer will work closely with the Support Services Manager and the Regional Finance Specialist to ensure compliance with financial regulations and to support program managers in budget management. The role requires a collaborative approach to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting, adherence to internal controls, and effective communication with various stakeholders. The Finance and Grants Officer will also be responsible for promoting high standards of integrity and accountability in the utilization of organizational resources, thereby contributing to the overall mission of Action Against Hunger.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance and Grants Officer will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Ensuring high-quality accounting by disseminating information about accounting procedures, recording monthly commitments, verifying bankbooks, processing payments, preparing monthly accounting bundles, and acting as a focal point for audits.
• Managing cash effectively by ensuring compliance with finance procedures, preparing cash forecasts, monitoring liquidity, and acting as a bank agent for cash transactions.
• Providing financial and budgetary management by establishing annual budgets, producing budget follow-ups, monitoring spending, and leading project audits.
• Archiving financial documents according to ACF guidelines, ensuring all financial files are correctly allocated and maintained.
• Managing grants by monitoring project spending, contributing to financial management of donor grants, and preparing for financial audits.
• Ensuring security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and fraud prevention by managing cash security, conducting internal audits, and providing training on financial security.
• Communicating effectively by providing training and mentoring to staff, liaising with banks and partners, and participating in donor meetings.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Management, or a related field, with an MBA or similar higher degree considered a plus. Additionally, candidates should possess ACCA certification as an added advantage. Required skills include exceptional organizational and planning abilities, strong interpersonal and communication skills, and the capacity to manage stress and competing priorities effectively. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to the values of Action Against Hunger, including professionalism, transparency, and non-discrimination. Previous experience with donor-funded programs and in a similar role within an INGO is highly desirable, as is experience supervising others.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Management, or a related field. An MBA or similar higher degree is a plus, and ACCA certification is considered an added advantage. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of financial management and ensuring compliance with organizational and donor policies.

Experience:
The Finance and Grants Officer position requires a minimum of 2 years of experience in areas such as Administration, HR, Finance, or Logistics. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing financial transactions, preparing budgets, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. Experience in donor-funded programs and previous work with international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) is highly valued. The ability to manage stress, prioritize tasks, and work collaboratively with diverse teams is essential for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the regions in which Action Against Hunger operates.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Lusaka, Zambia, and may involve occasional travel to other country offices or project sites. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared to work in a dynamic and challenging environment. Action Against Hunger is committed to gender equality and fostering a diverse workplace, and candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of gender, sexual orientation, disability, religion, race, or other characteristics. The organization also emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy towards abuse and promotes a safe working environment for all employees.