Finance Officer

South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network (SAWEN) is seeking applications from the qualified candidates willing to apply for the following position

Finance Officer

Position Overview: The Finance Officer will be an integral part of the SAWEN Secretariat to look after overall financial matters and manage the financial operations of the Secretariat. S/he will ensure efficient and transparent financial management, budgeting, compliance as per the SAWEN policies and requirements of donor and partners. Majority of the works involves fund generation, management and mobilization; financial record and documentation; routine accounting and management along with looking after of SAWEN Endowment Fund.

Duties and accountabilities:

Financial Management:

•  Oversee daily financial transactions and maintain state-of-the-art financial records.
•  Manage the financial aspects of programmes and projects, ensuring compliance with financial policies of SAWEN and donor/partner organizations.
•  Develop relevant procedures, operational framework and guidelines for smooth operation of the financial system.

Budgeting and Planning:

•  Develop annual, periodic budgets, three-year programmes and estimated three years income and expenditure, financial plan in collaboration with the Secretary General and other staff.
•  Monitor budget performance and provide financial forecasts.
•  Annual and quarterly monitoring of financial status of the Secretariat.
•  Develop and update financial policies, database and procedures to enhance financial governance.

Reporting and Compliance:

• Prepare financial reports for the Executive Committee, General Assembly, and donors.
• Ensure compliance with SAWEN’s statutory requirements, financial policies, procedures, and donors’ requirements.
•  Provide access to auditors to all documentation and assist in audits and implement auditor’s recommendations.
•  Collaborate and facilitate communication and coordination with member countries, associate members, international, local partners and donors as assigned.
•  Liaison with different stakeholders to implement the assigned tasks and develop beneficial relation for institutional strengthening.

Funds Management:

•  Develop financial strategy aiming to self-sustain Secretariat.
• Manage SAWEN’s bank accounts and maintain financial systems.
• Track and report on the utilization of funds from various sources including membership fees, grants, donations and others.
•  Oversee and manage the SAWEN Fund including SAWEN Endowment Fund, ensuring proper allocation and utilization of funds; investments and disbursements.

Support to Programmes:

• Provide financial support and guidance to programme manager/officers.
•  Assist in the financial planning and execution of SAWEN’s programmes and projects.
•  Provide training and support to staff and partner agencies involved about institutional policies, financial compliance, and programme/project requirements.

Qualifications:

•  Advance degree in finance, business studies, accounting, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in financial management in public institutions, national, regional, international organization, or intergovernmental organizations.
• Proficiency in financial software and eager to learn new systems adopted by the organization.
• Professional accounting certification preferred.
• Knowledge and practice of financial management tools and systems.
• Excellent communication, strong analytical skills and interpersonal skills.
• Applicant should be eligible to work in Nepal.

Competencies for the position:

•  Knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts and approaches of financial operation and system,
•  Responds positively to new approaches, understands the main processes and methods of work applicable for the position,
•  Possesses knowledge of organizational policies and procedures relating to the position and applies them consistently in ranges of tasks,
•  Demonstrates good knowledge on information technology and applies it accordingly,
•  Organizes and prioritizes work schedule to meet the needs and deadlines,
• Demonstrated ability to build trust among the staff, stakeholders; a good team player and promoter of good working environment.
•  Demonstrating/safeguarding ethics and integrity, informed and transparent decision-making,
•  Creating synergies through self-control, managing conflict, and demonstrating quick and honourable judgment,
•  Display cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability along with equal participation,
•  Ability to work independently and as part of a team; and shows pride in work and of
  achievements,
•  Remains calm in stressful situations.

Language and other requirements:

• Excellence in written and spoken English is essential, while any other official language used by SAWEN member countries is an advantage,
• Working knowledge on intergovernmental organization and on financial management is an advantage.

Terms:

• Initial term of one year with the possibility of extension upon satisfactory demonstration of duties and responsibilities.
• Salary and other benefits are negotiable.

Application Process and other information:

• Interested and eligible candidates should submit their CV, cover letter outlining relevant experience with strong competencies addressed to the SAWEN Secretariat.
•  Email at info@sawen.org with clearly mentioning job title at the subject line of email before 15 December 2024.
• The Secretariat will review the applications and shortlist candidates. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for further assessment.
• SAWEN reserves the right to withdraw and re-advertise the vacancy announcement without prior notice.

SAWEN is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.