Compliance and Finance Officer at The Jemilius Aid and Relief Initiative (JAREI)

Job Description

• JAREI is seeking a Compliance and Finance Officer to ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial records, manage compliance with donor regulations, and support efficient resource allocation.
• The officer will be responsible for ensuring that JAREI’s financial activities comply with internal policies and donor requirements while providing financial guidance to program teams to achieve operational excellence.

Responsibilities

Finance and Accounting Management:

• Manage day-to-day accounting tasks including payments, payroll, and the preparation of vouchers.
• Maintain the accuracy and completeness of accounting records, including the management of ledgers and supporting documentation.
• Review purchase requests, purchase orders, and payment requests to ensure compliance with JAREI policies.
• Support the tracking and clearance of staff advances and manage petty cash in line with organizational standards.
• Assist in responding to internal and external audits and enhance existing financial control systems.
• Oversee the archiving and safeguarding of all financial documents.

Compliance and Risk Management :

• Ensure compliance with Government Regulatory framework, donor regulations, laws, and JAREI’s internal policies.
• Assist in the financial review of programs and ensure adherence to grant and budget requirements.
• Conduct risk assessments to identify potential gaps in compliance and provide solutions to mitigate risks.

Reporting and Documentation :

• Prepare and submit timely, accurate financial reports on a weekly and monthly basis.
• Ensure proper documentation for all financial transactions, including reconciliation reports.
• Support the Senior Finance Officer in preparing financial statements and donor-specific reports.

Team Management :

• Supervise, train, and mentor junior finance staff, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to excel in their roles.
• Foster a culture of accountability and excellence within the team.

Financial Planning and Strategy :

• Support the development of budgets for new projects and programs.
• Contribute to long-term financial planning and sustainability strategies.
• Participate in resource mobilization efforts, ensuring that financial resources are used efficiently.

Stakeholder and Donor Relations :

• Liaise with program teams, donors, and government agencies to ensure financial clarity and donor compliance.
• Provide financial data to the Program Management team to aid in decision-making processes.

Qualifications

• A University Degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field is required.
• At least 2 years of experience in finance and compliance, preferably with an NGO or development organization.
• Experience in financial reporting, budget management, and handling compliance issues.
• Familiarity with Government Regulatory framework, donor regulations and general financial management practices.
• Any other duties as required.

Skills :

• Proficiency in accounting software and advanced skills in MS Excel.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. including the ability to present to groups of all sizes.
• Experience in training, capacity building, and mentoring of staff of NGOs/CBOs.
• Self-starter with ability to work independently and part of a team.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively under pressure and handle multiple simultaneous tasks.
• Fluency in English is required, and knowledge of local languages (Hausa or others) is an advantage.

Key Competencies:
Financial Acumen:

• Solid understanding of financial principles and compliance requirements for donor-funded projects.
• Ability to lead internal financial audit and prepare corresponding reports.

Accountability and Integrity:

• High ethical standards, demonstrating accountability and transparency in all financial dealings.

Problem-Solving:

• Ability to identify financial risks and implement solutions to mitigate those risks.