DRC: Interim Director of Finance

Nov 13, 2022 | Wildlife Conservation Society
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The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is a US non-profit organization founded in 1895. Its mission is to preserve wildlife and wilderness by understanding critical problems, developing scientific solutions and taking conservation actions that benefit nature and humanity.

The interim Director of Finance is responsible for management of the financial systems and staff, financial reporting to the Central Africa Regional and New York HQ offices and donors, monitoring and compliance of internal controls, conducting/coordinating financial reviews of project sites, and cash management.

Based in Goma, there will be frequent travel to field sites in eastern DRC to support the field-based finance teams and review financial documentation. This position reports to the DRC Country Director.

Responsibilities

Financial Management and Compliance

  • Responsible for financial management and timely accounting for the WCS DRC Program
  • Responsible for grant compliance from the financial proposal thru the closure stage.
  • Ensure all project financial activities are in compliance with donor and WCS requirements
  • Responsible for monthly close of accounting including balance sheet reconciliations and required reporting to the Regional Controller
  • Work with the DRC Grant Manager, project managers and field-based finance staff to generate donor financial reports accurately and on time
  • Monitor bank transfers, banking activities, advances and expenditures in coordination with WCS-NY.
  • Management of in-country revenue sources and receivables.
  • Budget review and financial management of sub grantees. Assess and monitor sub grantees in coordination with the Project Manager and DRC Grants Manager.
  • Produce regular and adequate indicators to Senior Managers (Deputy Country Director, Project Managers) to ensure and monitor the financial health of the program.
  • Ensure cash flow management of the program

Internal Control and Audits

  • Coordinate and supervise local audits relating to accounting including donors and institutional audit, tax, and labor matters as well as promote internal audits in coordination with Regional Controller, in order to determine the legality and veracity of the accounts of WCS DRC
  • Assess and mitigate the financial risks of the mission, ensure that reliable internal control systems are in place, and financial ethics is respected within the mission
  • Ensure proper implementation and respect of relevant policies and guidelines, design or adapt relevant local policies, procedures and tools for optimized management of the mission financial and human resources and awareness of realities of the context.

Staff management

  • Responsible for training and managing finance staff for the DRC Program.

Qualification Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in business administration, accounting major preferred.  MBA, CPA or other equivalent certification a plus.
  • Demonstrated ability in the development and implementation of financial policies and procedures.
  • French and English language fluency required.
  • Significant experience with the financial management of government and agency grants and contracts, experience with KFW, EU, US Government grants a plus.
  • At least five years of experience of managing finances for an international non-profit organization.
  • Willingness to travel to field sites
  • Experience working in a developing country setting.
  • Good communication skills, both written and verbal, as well as strong analytical skills.
  • Effective “roll up the sleeves” work ethic, with attention to detail.
  • Proven managerial skill and ability to work in a team setting within an organization.

How to apply

Interested candidates, who meet the above qualifications, skills and experience, should apply through the application tab below by November 30, 2022.

WCS is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to hiring and supporting a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and look for future team members who share that same value.

Salary Range: Competitive salary commensurate with experience