Finance Officer

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to save, protect, and transform lives in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries worldwide. The organization is committed to improving the lives of the poor and vulnerable, regardless of race, religion, or nationality. CRS engages in various programs including emergency response, health initiatives, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The organization fosters a collaborative, mission-driven culture and welcomes individuals from all faiths and secular traditions who share its values. CRS is dedicated to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and its processes reflect this commitment. The agency employs a diverse workforce and prioritizes candidates from the regions in which it operates, ensuring that its staff reflects the communities it serves.

Job Overview:
The Finance Officer plays a crucial role in supporting the Finance department's management of accounting systems, policies, and procedures in compliance with CRS' established accounting standards, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and donor regulations. This position is integral to ensuring that financial transactions are processed accurately and in a timely manner, which is essential for the successful delivery of high-quality programs aimed at serving the poor and vulnerable populations. The Finance Officer will coordinate daily financial activities, which include the preparation and delivery of financial services. This role requires a proactive approach to financial management, ensuring that all financial documentation is accurate and complete, and that the organization's financial practices align with legal requirements and donor expectations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Officer will be responsible for reviewing and supporting the documentation of financial transactions to ensure accuracy and completeness. This includes maintaining all necessary data for processing financial transactions for assigned accounts using the Insight financial accounting package. The officer will record delegated financial transactions following appropriate authorizations and review various accounts to detect any irregularities. Additionally, the Finance Officer will evaluate subrecipient financial management processes in accordance with organizational policy and assist in strengthening the financial accounting and transaction capabilities of partners. The role also involves preparing delegated financial reports as needed and sharing information with subrecipients and staff regarding financial accounting policies and compliance issues. The Finance Officer must be adept at identifying inconsistencies and reporting them, ensuring that all financial activities adhere to established guidelines.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, or Business Administration, with a strong preference for those who have completed courses in accounting or hold a qualification in accounting such as CPA/ACCA or an equivalent. A minimum of two years of accounting experience is required, although additional education may substitute for experience. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of financial principles and practices, as well as experience in managing financial transactions and reporting.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Accounting, Finance, Economics, or Business Administration. Candidates with additional qualifications in accounting, such as CPA or ACCA, will be given preference. Relevant coursework in accounting is highly desirable, as it provides the foundational knowledge necessary for effective financial management.

Experience:
The Finance Officer position requires a minimum of two years of accounting experience. This experience should ideally be in a similar role within an international or local NGO, or in a financial or banking institution. Candidates with additional educational qualifications may have their experience requirements adjusted accordingly. Familiarity with public donors' regulations and financial reporting software is considered a plus.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. While not mandatory, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances communication with local partners and communities.

Additional Notes:
The Finance Officer position is expected to involve travel, with a requirement to be willing and able to travel up to 20%. The role does not include supervisory responsibilities. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a generous retirement savings plan. For candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits packages are based on the country of employment. The organization emphasizes a commitment to safeguarding program participants and community members from exploitation and abuse, and successful candidates will be expected to adhere to CRS' Code of Conduct. The job description provided is not exhaustive and may evolve as the needs of the organization change.