Finance Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a global humanitarian organization established to assist people who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or natural disasters. NRC operates in various countries around the world, providing essential support and services to millions of displaced individuals. The organization is recognized for its commitment to high-quality aid and advocacy for the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons. NRC fosters a culture of responsibility, professional growth, and innovation among its employees, ensuring that they are empowered to make a difference in the lives of those they serve. The organization is dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and emphasizes the importance of safeguarding and creating a safe environment for all individuals.

Job Overview:
The Finance Officer plays a crucial role in implementing financial systems in accordance with NRC policies and procedures. This position is responsible for providing necessary administrative support to project staff, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and maintaining accurate financial records. The Finance Officer will be expected to prepare and develop status reports, monthly financial reports, and assist project staff with financial and administrative matters. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying areas for improvement within the financial support function and contributing to analyses of protection risks and needs. The Finance Officer will also be involved in managing the cash and voucher program, collaborating with various departments, and ensuring timely processing of financial transactions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Officer's duties and responsibilities include verifying that vouchers and supporting documents meet NRC standards before payment, managing payments to suppliers, contractors, and contingent workers, and ensuring timely disbursement of per diem to employees. The officer will be responsible for daily, weekly, and monthly booking of costs into the Agresso system, writing transaction numbers on vouchers, and labeling financial documents. Establishing a tracking system for advances, preparing bank account and cashbox reconciliations, and assisting in internal and external audits are also key responsibilities. The Finance Officer will work closely with program departments to manage financial operations and resolve payment-related queries with financial institutions. Additionally, the officer will ensure the implementation of digital documentation processes and follow up on reconciliation of deliverables, verification of purchase requisitions and orders, and assist in payroll management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field. A minimum of 2-3 years of relevant experience in finance, accounting, budgeting, or grant management is required, preferably within an NGO or international humanitarian/development organization. A good understanding of financial procedures, internal controls, donor compliance requirements, and financial reporting standards is essential. Candidates should have experience in budget management, financial monitoring, cash management, and month-end closing processes. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications is necessary, and experience with ERP/accounting systems is considered an asset. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work accurately under deadlines are crucial for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Finance Officer position includes a Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field. This educational foundation is essential for understanding financial principles, accounting practices, and the regulatory environment in which the NRC operates.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2-3 years of relevant experience in finance, accounting, budgeting, or grant management. This experience should preferably be within a non-governmental organization (NGO) or an international humanitarian/development organization. Candidates should demonstrate a solid understanding of financial procedures, internal controls, and donor compliance requirements, as well as experience in supporting budget management and financial monitoring.

Languages:
Working proficiency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of Ukrainian is required. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders and beneficiaries.

Additional Notes:
The Finance Officer position is full-time and based in Shostka, Ukraine. The role may involve working in a challenging and insecure environment, requiring the ability to cope with change and deliver results effectively. The organization emphasizes safeguarding and expects all employees to treat everyone with respect and dignity, contribute to a safe environment, and report any incidents of exploitation or harassment. NRC has a zero-tolerance approach to inaction against exploitation, abuse, and sexual exploitation and harassment (SEAH).