Deadline: 20 July 2010
The Open Society Initiative for Southern Africa (OSISA) is a growing African institution committed to deepening democracy and human rights in southern Africa. With a mandate that includes operating in ten countries in the region, including four that are in crisis and/or transition from conflict, OSISA requires an individual who is able to operate in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating superior leadership skills and an ability to multi-task. To that end, OSISA seeks to fill the position of SENIOR FINANCE OFFICER. The Senior Finance Officer will form an essential part of the Finance team, with an overall mandate for supporting the Finance Director and the Executive Director in guiding the implementation of the budget of the organization. The role of the Senior Finance Officer specifically involves the following:
Reporting to the Finance Director, the Senior Finance Officer is responsible for applying accounting principles and procedures, analyzing financial information, preparing accurate and timely financial reports and statements and ensuring appropriate accounting control procedures are implemented. Specifically he/she is responsible for:
- Compiling and analyzing financial information and preparing financial statements and supporting schedules including monthly and annual accounts. This will include the supervision and/or preparation of monthly reconciliations: All petty cash accounts All bank accounts including issued cheque accounts All staff advances control accounts All creditors control accounts All credit card accounts All transfer accounts
- Conducting regular reviews of the trial balance, ensuring the integrity of financial information therein
- Ensuring financial records are maintained in compliance with accepted policies and procedures
- Ensuring all financial reporting deadlines are met
- Preparation of financial management reports as required
- Ensuring accurate and timely monthly, quarterly and year end close
- Establishing and monitoring the implementation and maintenance of accounting control procedures Resolving accounting discrepancies and irregularities timeously
- Monitoring and supporting taxation issues ensuring that payment deadlines are complied with Financial audit schedules preparation and coordination of the audit process
- Ensuring accurate and appropriate recording and analysis of revenues and expenses; including the booking of travel expenses met through the Amex Card
- Analyzing and advising on business operations including revenue and expenditure trends, financial commitments and future revenues
- Analyzing financial information and recommending or developing efficient use of resources and procedures, provide strategic recommendations and maintain solutions to business and financial problems
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s or higher degree in Accounting or Finance
- Knowledge of accepted accounting practices and principles
- Knowledge of auditing practices and principles (someone who has done articles preferable)
- Knowledge of South African applicable laws, codes and regulations
- Experience in the NGO industry a plus but not required Knowledge and experience of email and internet applications including proficiency in the use of MS Excel and MS Word.
- Knowledge of Sun Accounting Systems would be an advantage
- A minimum of 5 years experience in the management of financial systems and budgets, financial reporting, financial data analysis, auditing, taxation and providing financial advice
Key Competencies
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to meet assigned deadlines
- Ability to act and operate independently with minimal daily direction from manager to accomplish objectives
- Planning and organizing Strong communication skills
- Judgment and problem-solving skills
- Strong supervisory skills
- Ability to work cooperatively and collaboratively with all levels of employees, management, and external partners to maximize performance, creativity, problem solving, and results.
A competitive remuneration package, commensurate with experience is applicable. The job is offered on a two-year contract. Interested and qualified candidates who match the above profile are invited to submit their detailed CV and a letter of interest to: Prava Singh Human Resources Manager: humanresources@osisa.org
Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
