Country Finance Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) Ethiopia began operations in 2009, focusing on addressing the needs of populations affected by conflict, forced displacement, and the impacts of climate change and natural disasters. With a strong presence across the country, DRC Ethiopia operates through three main area offices and two sub-offices located in the Gambella, Tigray, and Somali regions, alongside its country office in Addis Ababa. The organization is committed to responding swiftly to the humanitarian needs of communities affected by displacement, employing a protection-focused approach that aims to restore livelihoods and support the pursuit of durable solutions for displaced individuals, all while adhering to humanitarian principles and human rights.

Job Overview:
The Country Finance Manager role is pivotal in ensuring the financial health and stability of DRC Ethiopia. This position has a country-wide focus and is responsible for fostering strong relationships with donors while supporting the organization's localization efforts. The role requires compliance with DRC procedures and guidelines, contributing to the development of country strategies that are actionable and integrated into daily operations. The Finance Manager will provide technical guidance to country operations and oversee all finance activities, ensuring that financial management practices align with organizational standards and donor requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Country Finance Manager will lead and manage the finance team, which includes planning for personnel, performance management, staff well-being, development, and exit management. This role involves supporting the financial management capacity building of the Country Finance team and providing assistance to area-based finance teams. The Finance Manager will oversee the finance department for the entire operation, ensuring that country office finance staff receive adequate training and support. Responsibilities also include reinforcing financial management procedures in collaboration with Area/Base Managers, ensuring compliance with statutory obligations, and preparing for local audits. The Finance Manager will contribute to budgeting proposals, maintain an up-to-date Master Budget, and lead monthly gap analysis meetings with the Senior Management Team. Additionally, the role requires ensuring the effective use of DRC Dynamics, improving internal controls, and monitoring project spending. The Finance Manager will also be accountable for achieving strategic goals, making significant decisions, and managing direct reports effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least six years of experience in financial management within complex humanitarian programs, with a minimum of three years in a people management role. They should demonstrate cultural sensitivity and the ability to work in diverse cultural contexts. The ideal candidate will have strong financial management skills, in-depth knowledge of international humanitarian organizations, and experience with donor financial rules and regulations. Proficiency in accounting software such as QuickBooks, Navision, and Microsoft Dynamics is essential, along with advanced Excel skills for financial data analysis and presentation. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are mandatory.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field is required for this position. Additionally, professional certification in Accounting is preferred, ensuring that candidates have the necessary academic background to fulfill the financial responsibilities of the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of six years of experience in financial management, specifically within complex humanitarian programs. Candidates should have at least three years of experience in managing teams, demonstrating their capability to lead and develop finance staff effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this role, with excellent written and oral communication skills. While not explicitly stated, proficiency in additional languages may be beneficial given the diverse cultural context of Ethiopia and the populations served by DRC.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is one year, with a salary and conditions aligned with DRC’s Terms of Employment for Employment band F1- Management. The position is based in Addis Ababa, with an expected availability date of May 202

• DRC is committed to creating an inclusive work environment and encourages applications from diverse backgrounds. The organization emphasizes high standards of ethical conduct and conducts thorough background checks as part of the recruitment process. Interested candidates must submit their applications and CVs in English by April 4, 2025, through the online application form provided on the DRC website.