Associate, Funds Accounting

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is a pioneering international financial institution established in 199

• Its mission is to foster the transition towards open market-oriented economies and promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia and the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. The organization is committed to sustainable development and aims to support projects that enhance the economic growth and stability of the regions it serves.

Job Overview:
The Associate in the Donor Fund’s Accounting team plays a crucial role in maintaining the financial records for the Donor Funds administered by the EBRD. This position requires the application of relevant accounting rules and the provision of meaningful financial reporting. The accounting teams are responsible for preparing periodic and annual financial reports, ensuring that the financial records are accurate and up-to-date. The Associate will interact with various departments within the Bank to coordinate the necessary information for internal and external financial reporting. Additionally, the role involves responding to inquiries from both internal and external auditors regarding the areas of responsibility. The contract for this position is for 12 months, with the possibility of extension based on business needs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate will be responsible for preparing sections of the year-end financial statements, ensuring all required disclosures and notes are accurate and submitted by tight deadlines. They will prepare periodic internal financial management reports and assess the impact of the latest IFRS accounting standards on the financial statements of the Donor Funds to ensure compliance. The Associate will maintain up-to-date accounting policies consistent with IFRS and conduct investigations and inspections of data to identify potential accounting postings. They will also maintain the accounting and reporting systems, files, and records necessary for the Donor Funds, ensuring timely and accurate information. The role includes reviewing transactions booked in front office systems for accuracy, liaising with Operations and front office teams to resolve booking issues, and providing advice to internal clients on relevant financial products or transactions. The Associate will contribute to the development of procedures to enhance the accounting department's responsiveness to the needs of the Donors, review and sign off on team members' journals, supervise and train new team members, and ensure compliance with the Bank’s Internal Controls Framework. They will also liaise with internal and external auditors and support the DFA team in delivering the Compass transformation project, including process design, system testing, data migration, and implementation activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be educated to degree level and hold an ACA qualification or equivalent. They should possess fluent English language skills, both verbal and written, and have significant relevant accounting experience, preferably in a Financial Services setting. Experience in statutory financial accounts preparation and/or audit of financial accounts is essential. Strong numerical and financial skills are required, along with the ability to interpret financial information. Candidates should be fully competent in their practice area and have a working knowledge of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Strong computer skills, particularly in Excel, are necessary, and experience with SAP or an equivalent accounting system is preferable.

Educational Background:
The position requires a degree-level education, with a preference for candidates who have completed an ACA qualification or an equivalent accounting qualification. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have significant relevant accounting experience, ideally within a Financial Services environment. This experience should include statutory financial accounts preparation and/or audit experience, which is crucial for understanding the complexities of financial reporting and compliance within the context of donor funds.

Languages:
Fluent English language skills are mandatory for this position, both verbal and written. While English proficiency is essential, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a short-term contract lasting 12 months, with the possibility of extension based on business needs. The EBRD promotes a hybrid workplace that offers flexibility to teams and individuals, emphasizing trust, flexibility, and connectedness. The organization prioritizes employee wellbeing and provides a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits. The EBRD is committed to diversity and encourages all qualified candidates from member countries to apply, regardless of their background.