Financial Management Specialist (FMS)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a global partnership of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. Established in 1944, the organization has grown to include 189 member countries and operates in more than 120 offices worldwide. The World Bank Group is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, working with public and private sector partners to invest in groundbreaking projects and utilize data, research, and technology to address urgent global challenges.

Job Overview:
The Financial Management Specialist (FMS) position at the World Bank is a critical role that involves providing fiduciary assurance for World Bank-financed operations, particularly in Ghana, with potential support for Liberia and Sierra Leone. The FMS will be responsible for ensuring compliance with World Bank financial management policies and procedures throughout the project and program cycle. This includes designing and implementing financial management systems, conducting assessments of financial management country systems, and providing training and capacity-building support to project staff and stakeholders. The FMS will work closely with various teams, including the Institutions team based in Accra, Ghana, and will be expected to generate and exchange knowledge related to financial management issues, ensuring that all operations align with the World Bank's standards and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Financial Management Specialist include: acting as a core member of project teams, liaising with Task-Team Leaders and government counterparts; contributing to governance assessments and strategic discussions on financial management issues; ensuring compliance with financial management policies and monitoring the resolution of exceptions; conducting assessments of financial management country systems; participating in project identification, preparation, appraisal, and negotiations; reviewing project internal controls and financial reporting systems; providing training and capacity-building support; monitoring financial performance and compliance; and participating in implementation support missions. The FMS will also be responsible for preparing financial systems assessments, reviewing Terms of Reference for financial officers and auditors, and ensuring timely execution of project payments and recruitment of external auditors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field, along with a professional accounting qualification such as CPA or ACCA. Additionally, at least 5 years of relevant experience in financial management within international development organizations, governments, or as an auditor is required. Strong knowledge of financial management principles, practices, and standards is essential, as well as experience with financial management systems and software. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural and multidisciplinary team environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration. A professional accounting qualification (e.g., CPA, ACCA) is also necessary to ensure that candidates have the requisite knowledge and skills to perform the financial management functions effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in financial management, specifically in recipient-executed operations within the World Bank, other international development organizations, or government sectors. Experience as an auditor in the private sector or public administration is also acceptable. Candidates should have a strong understanding of financial management principles and practices, as well as experience with financial management systems and software.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. While no additional languages are specified as preferred, proficiency in other languages may be beneficial in a multicultural work environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment role with a term duration of 3 years. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The role is based in Bujumbura, Burundi, and may involve collaboration with teams in other countries.