Program Finance Business Partner

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT is a cutting-edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow’s problems today. Established to enhance the quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops, CIMMYT focuses on applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South. The organization builds strong partnerships to improve the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers, while working towards a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries. As a core CGIAR Research Center, CIMMYT is part of a global research partnership aimed at achieving a food-secure future, reducing poverty, enhancing nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and improving natural resources. For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

Job Overview:
The Program Finance Business Partner plays a crucial role in providing dedicated financial management and business partnering support to assigned Programs. This position ensures effective budget management, financial monitoring, donor compliance, and operational financial support throughout the project lifecycle. The role requires close collaboration with Program Directors (PDs), Principal Investigators (PIs), and program teams to support sound financial management while enabling programs to focus on their delivery and implementation priorities. The Program Finance Business Partner is expected to engage in analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis, forecasting, budget monitoring, and variance reviews, thereby contributing to the overall success of the programs they support.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Program Finance Business Partner include serving as the finance focal point for assigned Program(s), providing guidance and support on financial matters, and supporting program leadership through financial analysis, forecasting, budget monitoring, and variance reviews. The role involves participating in regular financial review meetings with program stakeholders, identifying and escalating emerging financial, compliance, or operational risks, and supporting the implementation of standardized reporting and financial management practices. Additionally, the partner will support the development and review of donor proposal budgets and costings, ensuring alignment with institutional costing methodologies and donor requirements. Responsibilities also include coordinating with pooled Analysts/Accountants on budget preparation activities, reviewing budget revisions, monitoring expenditures, commitments, and forecasts against approved budgets, conducting variance analysis, and supporting corrective action discussions. The partner will also review donor financial reports, ensure compliance with institutional policies and donor regulations, and contribute to process improvements and operational efficiency initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Program Finance Business Partner position include a Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field. A professional accounting qualification or active progression toward certification is desirable. Candidates should possess 5-7 years of experience in budgeting, donor-funded projects, financial reporting, or financial analysis, along with experience supporting project/grant financial management. Familiarity with ERP systems and financial reporting tools is also essential, as is an advanced level of English (C1).

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field. A professional accounting qualification or active progression toward certification is considered a plus, indicating a commitment to professional development and expertise in the financial domain.

Experience:
The position requires 5-7 years of relevant experience in budgeting, donor-funded projects, financial reporting, or financial analysis. Candidates should have a proven track record of supporting project or grant financial management, demonstrating their ability to handle complex financial tasks and responsibilities effectively. Experience with ERP systems and financial reporting tools is also necessary to ensure efficient financial operations.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is advanced English (C1). Proficiency in additional languages may be considered beneficial, enhancing communication and collaboration within a multicultural work environment.

Additional Notes:
CIMMYT offers an attractive remuneration package and support for continuous professional development. In addition to the provisions of the Mexican Labor Law, the benefits package includes a year-end bonus (40 days), vacation premium (56%), life and medical insurance, supermarket coupons, a savings fund, and social Mexican benefits (IMSS, SAR / Infonavit). It is important to note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted, and foreign national candidates must have legal documents to work in Mexico. This position will remain open until filled, and CIMMYT is committed to fostering a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity.