Finance Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The IRC operates in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, focusing on restoring health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With a mission to deliver lasting impact, the IRC aims to help millions regain control of their futures and strengthen their communities. The organization has a significant presence in Sudan, having re-registered in 2019 and expanded its operations in various regions, including Al Jazeera, White Nile, and Darfur, among others. The IRC is committed to addressing the complex humanitarian crises in Sudan, particularly in light of the ongoing violence and displacement affecting millions.

Job Overview:
The Finance Specialist position is crucial for the successful implementation of an upcoming World Bank-funded health project in Sudan, aimed at restoring access to essential health and nutrition services. This role involves comprehensive financial management, including budgeting, accounting, fund flow management, and compliance with World Bank guidelines. The Finance Specialist will report to the Project Director and work closely with the World Bank Financial Management team. The position is designed for expatriates and is expected to run for three years starting from February 202

• The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring that project funds are utilized effectively and in accordance with established financial protocols, thereby contributing to the overall success of the health project in Sudan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of financial management tasks, including but not limited to: managing all financial operations of the project, ensuring compliance with World Bank financial management guidelines, preparing quarterly Interim Financial Reports (IFRs) and annual financial statements, managing the Designated Account, processing withdrawal applications and reimbursement requests, tracking expenditures against Statements of Expenditure, coordinating with external and internal auditors, implementing the financial management chapter of the Project Operations Manual, providing financial management capacity building to state-level financial staff and sub-partners, and managing payroll in compliance with national labor laws and World Bank requirements. The role requires a proactive approach to financial oversight and a commitment to maintaining high standards of accountability and transparency.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a professional accounting qualification (such as CPA, ACCA, or CA) or a degree in finance, accounting, or business administration, with a Master's degree preferred. A minimum of 8 years of experience in financial management of donor-funded programs is required, including at least 5 years of experience working on World Bank or major multilateral donor projects. Candidates should demonstrate a thorough understanding of World Bank financial management guidelines, disbursement procedures, and IFR reporting requirements. Proficiency in accounting software (such as SAP, QuickBooks, or Navision) and strong Excel skills are essential. Knowledge of IDA grant disbursement methods and experience managing Designated Accounts are also required.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have a professional accounting qualification (CPA, ACCA, CA) or a degree in finance, accounting, or business administration. A Master's degree in a relevant field is preferred, as it demonstrates a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex financial management issues.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in financial management, specifically in donor-funded programs. At least 5 years of this experience should be in projects funded by the World Bank or other major multilateral donors such as USAID, EU, or the Global Fund. This level of experience is crucial to ensure that the candidate is well-versed in the specific financial management practices and compliance requirements associated with these funding sources.

Languages:
Fluency in Arabic is preferred, while proficiency in English is required. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages is essential for collaboration with local stakeholders and international partners, ensuring that financial reporting and compliance are maintained across different linguistic contexts.

Additional Notes:
This position is contingent upon the outcome of the bid for the World Bank-funded project. All staff are required to adhere to IRC's security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-policies" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security policies and procedures, as well as the organization's Standards for Professional Conduct, which emphasize integrity, equality, service, and accountability. The IRC is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and considers all applicants based on merit, without discrimination based on race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability.