Finance Officer at Save The Slum Initiative

Position Overview

• The Finance Officer will ensure transparent, efficient, and compliant financial management of the National Geographic Society grant while supporting this innovative agricultural biodiversity project.
• This role demands exceptional financial expertise combined with deep understanding of international donor requirements and Nigerian financial regulations to maintain the highest standards of fiscal responsibility and accountability.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Management: Maintain comprehensive accounting records for all project expenditures across 14 budget categories including Assistant/Consultant Compensation, Equipment and Supplies, Laboratory Costs and operational expenses. Implement robust internal controls ensuring accurate recording, proper documentation, and compliance with both National Geographic Society guidelines and Nigerian financial regulations.
• Budget Monitoring: Provide real-time budget tracking and variance analysis, preparing monthly financial reports showing expenditure against approved allocations. Monitor currency exchange fluctuations affecting the dual-currency project (USD/NGN) and implement strategies minimizing foreign exchange risks while maintaining operational efficiency.
• Donor Compliance: Prepare quarterly financial reports meeting National Geographic Society's specific requirements including detailed expenditure analysis, supporting documentation, and forward-looking projections. Ensure all financial documentation meets international audit standards and maintains complete audit trails for potential external reviews.
• Payment Processing: Coordinate timely payment of staff salaries, vendor invoices, and operational expenses while ensuring proper authorization procedures and documentation. Manage international fund transfers, banking relationships, and cash flow planning to ensure uninterrupted project operations across rural Ogun State locations.
• Procurement Support: Work closely with Procurement Officer to ensure all purchases align with budget allocations and donor requirements. Verify receipt of goods and services before payment authorization while maintaining detailed procurement records supporting transparency and accountability requirements.
• Risk Management: Implement financial risk mitigation strategies addressing potential challenges including currency fluctuation, vendor payment delays, equipment security, and compliance requirements. Maintain contingency planning for various financial scenarios while ensuring project continuity.
• Capacity Building: Train field staff in expense claim procedures, mobile money protocols, and financial documentation requirements. Develop simplified financial tracking systems enabling community mobilizers and technical staff to maintain accurate field-level financial records.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field with professional certifications (ICAN, ACCA, CPA) representing significant advantages.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in NGO or donor-funded project finance with demonstrated expertise in international grant management and compliance reporting.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in accounting software (QuickBooks, Sage, Peachtree) and advanced Excel capabilities. Understanding of Nigerian tax regulations, foreign exchange management, and banking procedures affecting NGO operations.
• Experience with USAID, World Bank, European Commission, or similar donor financial requirements preferred.

Personal Attributes:

• High integrity and attention to detail with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication skills for coordination with diverse stakeholders including donors, vendors, government agencies, and community representatives.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure while maintaining accuracy and compliance standards.