Finance Coordinator at Search For Common Ground’s International

Project Summary

• The project aims to improve peace and security in Nigerian border communities in Kebbi, Katsina, Zamfara, Kwara, and Niger States.
• This will be achieved through community capacity building, institutional strengthening, and cross-border collaboration. Activities focus on empowering community members through training in conflict sensitivity and early warning systems, establishing and revitalizing local government-level and state-level Peace Architecture Dialogues, and fostering collaboration amongst project stakeholders.
• The project also seeks to promote trust-building and social cohesion, through approaches such as sports activities between communities and security officials, media engagement for conflict-sensitive journalism, and community outreach through radio dramas and participatory theater.
• By fostering inclusive dialogue and enhancing security coordination, the project aims to improve perceptions of peace and security while building sustainable mechanisms for conflict resolution and prevention in the region.

Position Summary

• The Finance Coordinator will report to the Country Finance Manager. He/she will oversee the financial aspect of the project by ensuring that accounts are up to date and that the grant meets the requirements of both the funders and SFCG. S/He will maintain accounting systems, provide financial analysis and other key management reports, and provide assistance with budget preparation.
• S/he will directly supervise the Field Finance Officer and Finance Assistant and ensure the finance support function is effectively delivered.
• S/He would be reviewing procurement-supporting documentation and conducting periodic compliance reviews.
• In addition, s/he would handle payroll and preparation of the consolidated Monthly Financial Reports, carry out account reconciliations, and prepare Budget vs Actual reports for monthly review with Project Coordinators
• The ideal candidate will have proven experience in financial and grant management in the INGO and nonprofit sectors, financial statement preparation and analysis, accounting system implementation, design, and workflows.
• She/he will work closely with the Head of Program Implementation and the Project Manager, as well as with the Finance Team Lead in Abuja.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Key Internal Relationships

Key External Relationships

Financial Management

• Supervise the Field Finance Officer and Assistant to ensure effective service delivery;
• Ensure proper documentation of transactions is kept in line with financial policies;
• Ensure all financial documents are stored in hard copies and backed up by scanning into our backup system
• Supervise and maintain Niger Delta Office’s cash management, optimal bank balance, and bank reconciliation
• Monitoring currency gains /losses by recording and reconciling them on a daily basis
• Monitoring of funds to ensure availability for disbursements
• Ensure timely reconciliation of bank accounts, advances, partner accounts, accruals, payroll, and severance, and ensure that data in books match data in the system (GP) on a monthly basis
• Correspond with local banks and donors on all financial operational matters
• Ensure regulatory reports and Tax obligations are properly prepared and timely reported
• Prepare Monthly Financial Reports (MFR) for review by the SFM and upload them into the Global Finance system
• Ensure the Balance Sheet is reviewed and a schedule of outstanding balances is prepared and sent to the DFA for review
• Prepare Budget Vs Actual Project reports and ensure monthly meetings are done with the Project team
• Prepare and organize internal and external audits
• Ensure that Search and its partners have practices and policies that support easy audits
• Facilitate timely audits and responses to auditors, both local and at headquarters
• The position holder will conduct him/herself both professionally and personally in such a manner as to bring credit to Search and not jeopardize its mission and objectives;
• Any other function assigned to him/her by the Supervisor.
• Country Director, Country Finance Manager, Project Manager, and Head of Program Implementation.
• Finance and program staff in partner organizations and donors.

Minimum Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in finance, business administration, or accounting is required.
• Professional qualification in accounting (ACCA, CPA, or equivalent)
• Minimum five years of relevant work experience within an NGO, of which three years should be working with EU and/or US government funds. Experience working within an international NGO is a strong advantage.
• Experience managing a portfolio of awards from multiple donors
• Experience preparing for internal audits and implementing audit recommendations
• Demonstrated ability to build capacity and lead training for staff and partners.
• Proven ability to be an effective supervisor of staff of varying levels of responsibility
• Proven ability in setting up and implementing accountability mechanisms
• Proven ability in financial planning and developing budgets for new business
• Excellent command of spoken and written English
• Mastery of Excel is a must
• Self-guided, strong organizational and planning skills
• Ability to work independently and under pressure
• Excellent communication, coaching, and facilitation skills
• Ability to travel up to 30% within Nigeria.