Finance Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to its mission. WFP's core values include Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion, and it strives to create a diverse and inclusive work environment for all employees. WFP is also a 2020 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, which underscores its significant contributions to humanitarian efforts globally. The organization emphasizes the importance of personal and professional development for its employees, offering various training and mobility opportunities across its global offices.

Job Overview:
The Finance Officer position at WFP is crucial for supporting the stewardship of the organization's resources. This role involves monitoring budgets, forecasting financial data, and reporting on key metrics to ensure effective management of funds. The Finance Officer will also provide basic administrative and human resource functions that facilitate the efficient delivery of assistance to beneficiaries. The position requires a proactive approach to financial management, ensuring compliance with corporate governance requirements and contributing to the development of country-specific financial plans aligned with WFP's broader strategies. The Finance Officer will work closely with various stakeholders to ensure that financial operations are conducted smoothly and efficiently, ultimately supporting WFP's mission to provide humanitarian assistance to those in need.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Officer will be responsible for a range of key accountabilities, including but not limited to: maintaining awareness of corporate finance and resource management strategies; contributing to the development of country-specific financial plans; reporting on financial status and project outcomes; monitoring budgets and forecasting for projects; performing bank reconciliations and cash management; delivering core administrative services; undertaking basic human resource functions related to staff benefits and recruitment; preparing accurate and timely financial reports; tracking data to improve policies and procedures; supporting financial controls and risk assessments; guiding and supervising junior staff; representing the unit at internal and external meetings; and following emergency preparedness practices to ensure rapid response capabilities in crises.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Finance Officer position must possess an advanced university degree in Finance, Business Administration, Accounting, or related fields. Alternatively, a first university degree in these subjects combined with additional years of relevant work experience and membership in a recognized professional accountancy body (such as ACCA or CPA) is acceptable. The role requires a strong understanding of financial management principles and practices, as well as the ability to analyze financial data effectively. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to WFP's values and mission, and possess the skills necessary to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in Finance, Business Administration, Accounting, or related fields. In cases where candidates hold a first university degree, they must also have additional years of related work experience and be a member of an internationally recognized professional accountancy body. This educational foundation is essential for understanding complex financial systems and ensuring compliance with WFP's financial policies and procedures.

Experience:
The ideal candidate for the Finance Officer position should have experience performing basic financial analyses at a national or operational level. Additionally, experience managing financial transactions is highly desirable. Candidates should be able to demonstrate their ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail. Previous experience in humanitarian or development contexts is a plus, as it provides valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by organizations like WFP.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, with a proficiency level of C. If the duty station's language differs from English, fluency in that language is also required. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders and beneficiaries.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Monrovia, Liberia, and reports to the Head of Finance & MS Officer. The role is full-time, and WFP is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. The organization does not charge any fees for applications or recruitment processes, ensuring an equitable opportunity for all candidates. WFP emphasizes the importance of an inclusive work environment and conducts rigorous reference and background checks for all selected candidates.