French-Speaking PFM Resident Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is a global organization established to promote international monetary cooperation, facilitate sustainable economic growth, and reduce poverty around the world. The IMF was founded in 1944 and has since grown to include 190 member countries. The organization employs thousands of professionals across various fields, including economics, finance, and public policy, working collaboratively to provide financial assistance, policy advice, and technical assistance to its member countries. The IMF operates in numerous countries, providing expertise and support to help governments implement effective economic policies and reforms.

Job Overview:
The position of French-Speaking PFM Resident Advisor at the Ministry of Finance, Budget and Economic Planification in Burundi is a long-term role that offers a unique opportunity to engage with the Burundian government at a senior level. The advisor will be responsible for providing expert advice on public financial management (PFM) issues, enhancing the capacity of the Ministry, and supporting the implementation of strategic reforms aimed at improving fiscal management. The advisor will work closely with IMF Headquarters and the Regional Capacity Development Center for Central Africa, ensuring that the government receives the necessary operational and technical support. The role requires a proactive approach to capacity development in areas such as accounting, fiscal reporting, budget execution, and cash management, including the establishment of a treasury single account system. The advisor will also conduct workshops and seminars to assist counterparts in preparing financial statements and budget execution reports, while also addressing other PFM areas as needed.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Resident Advisor will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Providing expert advice on public financial management issues to the Ministry of Finance, Budget and Economic Planification.
• Supporting the implementation of strategic reforms to enhance fiscal management within the government.
• Conducting capacity development activities in areas such as accounting, fiscal reporting, budget execution, and cash management.
• Organizing and facilitating workshops and seminars for government staff to improve their skills in financial reporting and budget execution.
• Collaborating with IMF Headquarters and the Regional Capacity Development Center to ensure effective support for the Ministry.
• Coordinating with other development partners in Burundi to align efforts and share best practices in public financial management.
• Assisting in the preparation of financial statements and budget execution reports.
• Addressing issues related to internal control, audit, information systems, and the legal and regulatory framework as they pertain to budget execution.
• Maintaining effective relationships with national authorities and development partners to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the position must possess the following qualifications:

• A university degree in relevant fields, with a preference for post-graduate qualifications.
• A minimum of four years of relevant professional experience in public financial management or related areas.
• Extensive practical experience (at least 10 years) in a senior or advisory role within a ministry of finance, treasury, or related budgetary institution.
• Proven experience in delivering capacity development, particularly in budget execution, cash management, and government accounting reforms.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in French, with at least a working knowledge of English.
• Proficiency in computer applications and information technologies, including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively transfer technical knowledge through training and workshops.
• Capacity to handle sensitive issues with discretion in a multicultural environment. 1
• Familiarity with CEMAC directives governing public financial management in the region is preferred.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes:

• A university degree in a relevant field, such as finance, economics, public administration, or a related discipline.
• A preference for candidates with post-graduate qualifications, which may include a master's degree or equivalent in a relevant area of study.
• Continuous professional development in public financial management or related fields is highly regarded.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a significant level of experience, specifically:

• At least four years of relevant professional experience in public financial management or related fields.
• A strong preference for candidates with a minimum of 10 years of practical experience in senior or advisory roles within ministries of finance, treasury, or related institutions.
• Experience in delivering capacity development initiatives, particularly in budget execution and cash management, is essential.
• Proven track record of working effectively in fragile institutional environments is highly desirable.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is:

• Excellent written and oral communication skills in French. Additionally, candidates should have:
• At least a working knowledge of English, which is considered beneficial for collaboration with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a long-term appointment, initially for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on satisfactory performance. The role is full-time and requires the advisor to be based in Bujumbura, Burundi. The IMF is committed to diversity in its workforce, welcoming candidates from various backgrounds, including gender, nationality, culture, and educational experience. The organization also provides reasonable accommodations for disabilities during the selection process.