Finance Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a global humanitarian organization that has been providing first-line humanitarian responses since 202

• NRC operates through multisectoral activities including shelter, education, livelihoods, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and information, counselling, and legal assistance. The organization focuses on supporting people in hard-to-reach areas and works in partnership with local authorities and actors. NRC is piloting cash-based interventions aimed at displaced populations living in host communities, and offers comprehensive responses for returnees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) addressing their various needs. NRC operates in ten countries across East and South Africa, including Kenya, Somalia, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Eritrea, South Sudan, Uganda, Tanzania, Sudan, and Mozambique, with a regional office based in Nairobi. The organization's overall strategy is to enhance protection and promote the rights of displaced people in humanitarian need by improving living conditions and seeking durable solutions. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and that their rights are defended.

Job Overview:
The Finance Assistant position is crucial for the day-to-day implementation of the finance function responsibilities within NRC. The role involves ensuring adherence to NRC policies, tools, handbooks, and guidelines, and implementing the delegated finance function portfolio according to the established plan of action. The Finance Assistant is expected to prepare and develop status reports as required by management, ensure proper filing of BRCiS documents, and promote ideas for improvement within the finance function. This position requires a proactive approach to monitoring costs posted in the financial system, maintaining various financial trackers, and ensuring timely processing of payments to consortium partners and other service providers. The Finance Assistant will also be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records and filing systems, and carrying out other relevant finance and administrative duties as assigned by the line manager. This role is essential for ensuring that financial operations run smoothly and efficiently, contributing to the overall success of NRC's humanitarian efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Assistant will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to: ensuring adherence to NRC policies and guidelines; implementing the finance function portfolio according to the action plan; preparing status reports for management; maintaining proper filing of BRCiS documents; monitoring costs in the financial system to ensure accuracy; maintaining trackers for program and CMU travel; updating the consultant tracker with contract details and payments; tracking payments due to consortium partners; maintaining the finance contact list; processing CMU-related payments; ensuring accuracy and completeness of financial records; and carrying out other finance and administrative duties as assigned by the line manager. The role requires a high level of attention to detail and the ability to flag issues requiring attention promptly.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience in finance or a related field. A Bachelor’s degree in business administration, commerce, finance, or a related field is essential. Experience in a humanitarian context or with an international non-governmental organization (INGO) is considered an added advantage. Candidates should have proven experience operating in complex and volatile environments, documented results related to the position’s responsibilities, and strong communication and interpersonal skills. Excellent written and verbal communication abilities are necessary, along with a high level of attention to detail and accuracy. Knowledge of financial reporting systems and accounting practices is required, and a CPA qualification is an added advantage. The ability to work effectively under pressure, meet deadlines, and collaborate with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds is essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in business administration, commerce, finance, or a related field. This educational background is critical for understanding the financial principles and practices necessary for the role of Finance Assistant. Additional certifications in finance or accounting, such as CPA, are considered beneficial and may enhance a candidate's qualifications for the position.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 1 to 2 years of relevant experience in finance or a related field. Experience working in a humanitarian context or with an INGO is highly desirable, as it demonstrates the ability to navigate the complexities of financial operations in challenging environments. Proven experience in managing financial records, processing payments, and maintaining financial trackers is essential for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all applications and communications will be conducted in English. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the regions where NRC operates, but English remains the primary language for this position.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Mogadishu, Somalia, and offers an open-ended contract duration. There is no travel required for this role. The salary and benefits will be in accordance with NRC’s salary scale and terms and conditions. NRC is committed to being an equal opportunities employer and encourages diversity in its workforce. Candidates are advised to complete all required fields in their application and submit their latest CV in English. Incomplete applications will not be considered, and candidates are encouraged to apply early as applications may be screened prior to the deadline. NRC does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.