Finance Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), which is a humanitarian organization established to help people affected by displacement. NRC has been operational since 1946 and has grown to become one of the leading organizations in the humanitarian sector, with a mission to protect the rights of displaced people and provide them with assistance. The organization operates in multiple countries around the world, focusing on providing aid in areas such as education, shelter, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and legal assistance. NRC employs thousands of staff members globally, working in various capacities to deliver essential services to those in need.

Job Overview:
The Finance Officer position is crucial for ensuring the financial integrity and compliance of the Norwegian Refugee Council's operations in Ukraine. The role involves supporting the line manager in financial procedures, maintaining budget monitoring, and conducting necessary training for team members. The Finance Officer will be responsible for planning and implementing financial activities, ensuring adherence to NRC policies and standards, and supporting the development of post-audit improvement plans. This position requires a proactive approach to financial management, including the preparation of monthly financial reports, managing payments to suppliers, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. The Finance Officer will also play a key role in capacity building for finance and non-finance staff, facilitating the introduction of new ideas and technologies to enhance financial processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Officer will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to: verifying that all vouchers and supporting documents comply with NRC standards prior to payment processing; managing payments to suppliers, contractors, and project participants; ensuring adherence to cash and corporate card procedures; preparing and maintaining bank account reconciliations; supporting finance staff in maintaining an accurate accounting database; assisting during internal and external audits; and preparing Budget vs Actual presentations. The Finance Officer will also be responsible for the month-end closing process, verifying purchase requisitions and purchase orders for compliance, and preparing spending plans and donor budgets upon request. Additionally, the officer will contribute to specific protection risks and needs analysis and perform any additional tasks assigned by the Area Office Coordinator to support the finance function.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of financial principles and regulations, particularly in the context of humanitarian operations. The role requires knowledge of the legal tax base for representation offices and compulsory primary documentation for processing supplier payments in line with local law. Proficiency in financial software, particularly Agresso ERP and 1C systems, is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate good computer skills in MS Office, particularly Excel, and have an upper-intermediate level of English, both written and verbal, along with fluency in Ukrainian.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for the Finance Officer position, typically including a degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field. Additional certifications in financial management or accounting would be advantageous and demonstrate a commitment to professional development in the finance sector.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least three years of experience working in finance within a humanitarian or recovery context, with a strong background in NGO finance. Experience with financial management in humanitarian settings, particularly in Ukraine, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the start-up of humanitarian or recovery programs is considered an asset, as is experience in managing financial processes in compliance with donor regulations and local laws.

Languages:
Fluency in Ukrainian is mandatory, both written and verbal, as the role requires communication with local stakeholders and compliance with local regulations. An upper-intermediate level of English is also required to facilitate communication within the organization and with international partners. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
This position is open to candidates who have the legal right to work in Ukraine according to local legislation. The organization is unable to provide work permits or visa sponsorships for this position. The role is full-time, and candidates are encouraged to apply early, as applications will be screened on a rolling basis. The Norwegian Refugee Council values dedication, innovation, teamwork, and accountability, and seeks individuals who share these values.