They are supported by a UK based non-profit, who fundraise and oversee operations in close partnership. Together, they have transformed the lives of over 60,000 people in the communities they work, including 20,000 young girls.

The Board and local staff lack the expertise in financial management to implement their agreed Finance Action Plan and attempts to make financial management systems and procedures used across the partnership more compatible have had mixed success to date.

Following the support of an AfID volunteer for a few weeks in 2023, they now require the support of a volunteer (ideally for a longer period) to carry out the following tasks:

• Reviewing the use of the new templates introduced by the previous volunteer.
• Conducting a financial capacity assessment of the Board, Finance Committee and staff.
• Identifying skills gaps and providing financial training to the Board, Finance Committee and staff as required.
• Reviving the Finance Action Plan.
• Reviewing and assessing financial procedures including monthly financial reporting, budgeting and actual/variation analysis, expenditure and program cost forecasting and make recommendations to these key financial outputs.
• Supporting the Board with a review of key governance and policy documents, including the Financial Policy and Procurement Policy.

Responsibilities

• Monitoring programmatic activity and spend, and maintaining the grants management tracker tool.
• Preparing financial information for internal reporting, and assisting in the preparation of the programmes finance elements on statutory financial statements
• Overseeing the financial administration of programmes grants. This includes reviewing concept notes and proposals, preparing donor and sub-grant agreements, setting up grant codes, and preparing donor reports.
• Supporting on budget proposal development and refinement for new grant proposals; and ensuring that donor and the foundation rules on accounting, procurement and project implementation are adhered to.
• Supporting in reviewing and approving due diligence assessments on potential partners, and carrying out monitoring visits and audits of projects.

Person specification

• Accountant with at least 3 years of experience in programmes financial accounting & reporting; developing and managing administrative systems; and budgeting, forecasting and cashflow monitoring.
• Experience of institutional grant budget proposal development, compliance, monitoring and reporting; this includes experience in managing DfID, EU, ECHO, German government, Swedish government, and USAID funding.
• Excellent numeracy & financial analysis skills
• Intermediate/advanced knowledge of MSOffice, especially MSExcel
• Excellent command of the English language, both in a written and oral capacity.
• Strong business partnering skills, including experience of working with field staff in an INGO setting.
• Ability to work under pressure, prioritise and meet deadlines.

The organisation offers hybrid working with the successful candidate expected to be in the office in London 1-2 days/week. This is a fixed-term contract with an immediate start preferred. 

They have grown considerably over the last few years from a team of 8 in 2019 to 16 in 2022. They now manage multiple grants to deliver new projects. As they have grown, they have realised the need for an improvement in their financial systems to be able to effectively manage and report on the external funding they have received.

Having received a AfID in-person in early 2023, they now require a follow up placement where a volunteer will provide support in the following areas:

• Review their use of Quickbooks, supporting them in making any accounting corrections, and also in making the most of the software.
• Coach them in undertaking bank reconciliations, and in undertaking old bank reconciliations, bringing these up to date. 
• They have requested support in taking the lead on consolidating the accounts of the three entities so that management can get a complete picture of the finances and financial health of the whole organisation. Part of your work will also be to develop templates/tools to help them manage this process themselves going forward.
• They are looking to decentralise finance responsibilities, and are keen on more involvement from Project Officers. They would like coaching for them to understand the importance of proper record keeping, project budgeting and reporting.
• Undertake a review of their grant systems and support improvements to improve accuracy of grant reporting.

Responsibilities

• Lead in the preparation of the organisational budget, and in monitoring the budget, working with regional heads of finance.
• Lead in monitoring the pipeline of funding, forecasting grant and other income flows, cashflows.
• Advise senior leadership on managing changes in cashflow and income, in allocation of surpluses/deficits, and cost savings.
• Lead on reviewing new funding opportunities, ensuring the accuracy of funding calculations, and in the contacting process for core funding.
• Lead in undertaking analysis and creating reports, and in the continual streamlining and improvement of reporting.
• Support in the year-end accounts preparation.

Requirements

• A chartered accountant, or with a masters degree in accounting/finance/equivalent with over ten years of experience in leading the budgeting, forecasting and reporting functions of a complex international organisation.
• Experience of developing and implementing improvements.
• Strong analysis and financial modelling skills.
• Experience of working and managing an international and decentralised team.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, able to motivate a team.
• Strong systems skills, and advanced MSExcel skills.

This role has management responsibilities. The role offers hybrid working in the UK.

The Treasurer will oversee the financial matters of the charity in line with good practice and legal requirements, and report to the Board of Trustees at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation. They will ensure that effective financial management systems, controls and procedures are in place, and are appropriate for the charity's needs.

The successful candidate will have experience of operating within a board in a charitable, public sector or commercial organisation, as well as a commitment to feminist principles and a passion for ending violence against women.

The board meets 5 times per year, and the finance sub-committee has an additional 4 meetings annually.

Currently day-to-day accounting and finance activities are undertaken by a full-time volunteer with support from the Founding Director, neither of whom have an accounting background. They are fortunate to have a Board member, who is a Certified Accountant, who provides oversight and guidance on the organisation’s financial management, visiting the office once or twice a week.

As the first AfID to support this partner you will undertake an initial review of their accounting processes, procedures and controls before making recommendations on how these can be strengthened, streamlined and improved and starting to implement these changes.

Broadly, they are requiring support in the following areas:

• Improving their financial reporting
• Improving their expenditure record keeping
• Reviewing their use of QuickBooks
• Providing guidance on financial strategy

The organisation does have written policies and procedures and these should be reviewed and updated based on changes implemented as per the above.

Responsibilities

• Provide full financial oversight of the operations in CAR, covering the main office in Bangui and field operations, ensuring that these are properly compliant with local tax & other regulatory requirements.
• Develop, strengthen and implement strong controls, processes and policies in all the offices, ensuring that staff understand these and offer coaching on them as required.
• Lead on the financial accounting and reporting, including the year-end accounts and audit preparation.
• Lead on country financial management, including preparation of management accounts, analysis, developing the organisational budget and cashflow forecasts and re-forecasts.
• Lead on full cycle grants management, including cost recovery, donor compliance, management & reporting, and preparing for donor audits.
• Provide oversight on HR, including ensuring compliance to the local laws & requirements, developing staff policies, and managing staff growth.
• Provide oversight on procurement.

Requirements

• Qualified accountant, or experienced accountant with an accounting/finance degree, with at least 5 years of experience leading the finance function of a growing INGO working in a complex/fragile state.
• Strong experience of developing controls, policies and processes in a complex/fragile state, and in an organisation with HQ and field operations.
• Strong grants management & compliance experience – specifically of institutional grants, including government grants as well as UN agency funding.
• Experience in procurement, HR & administration.
• Strong systems skills (ERP) and advanced MSExcel skills.
• Developed organisational, communication and negotiation skills.
• Resilient and adaptable.
• Bilingual – English & French

The salary is net of local taxes. Additionally, the benefits package is extremely generous, with additional hardship & accommodation allowances, R&R and additional 30 days of annual leave. The successful applicant will be based in Bangui, with some travel to field offices.

They are seeking a new Treasurer to join their existing board in leading the organisation through their next exciting period of change. While they are seeking someone with knowledge of UK charity finance and legal requirements, they are particularly interested to hear from candidates from the Global South, wherever their current location.

The Treasurer will monitor the financial administration of the charity and report to the board of trustees at regular intervals on its state of financial health, in line with best practice, and in compliance with legal requirements. 

The Treasurer role will require approximately 10-12 days per annum, including three Board meetings, two of which are usually virtual, and occasional virtual meetings with the Executive Director, Finance Manager, and Auditor. In addition, the Treasurer will chair the Finance and Audit sub-committee.

You will be the second AfID volunteer to visit this partner, and your role will be firstly to review how they have been getting on since the last placement. The organisation has changed considerably since Covid, moving many courses online, so their spreadsheets and accounting tools need to be reviewed to ensure they are still relevant and fit for purpose.

This assignment will provide all round support, helping their Director think through their requirements and needs. They currently use Odoo, however, only to record sales, and it might be worth extending its use to cover accounting too. They do have project and organisational budgets, and these will need to be reviewed. They would also be keen on receiving support in developing an annual report, donor reports, and any other similar materials.

The placement will take you back to basics, however, there is plenty of things to be done to support them as as they consider how the organisation grows and rebuilds its social programmes.

Responsibilities

• Finance business partner to project teams and partners, offering financial management support.
• Prepare project budgets, monitor expenditure and cashflows, and prepare management accounts, including variance analyses and supporting narrative reports.
• Grant management, compliance and reporting – preparing financial reports to donors, ensuring that these meet their requirements.

• Ensure the integrity and operational effectiveness of project accounting procedures, developing, and maintaining these as required.
• Supporting the broader finance team, including junior finance staff, in any ad hoc analysis, reporting and project work as required

Person Specification

• Accountant, qualified or QBE, with at least 5 years of experience in accounting, an understanding of accounting & finance principles and management accounting & reporting.
• Experience of project accounting, grant compliance & management is desirable; an understanding of the grant compliance & reporting requirements of the EU and German government grants is desirable.
• Strong IT skills, including advanced MSExcel skills. Competence in SQL an advantage.
• Strong communication (verbal and written) and interpersonal skills, including ability to communicate financial matters to non-finance staff.
• Quick learner, organised and flexible, able to meet tight deadlines.
• Fluent in English, with excellent spoken and reporting writing skills. Working knowledge of French or Spanish is highly desirable. Knowledge of German is not essential or required.
• Culturally sensitive

This is an excellent opportunity for an accountant looking to get good grounding in project accounting & grant management within a large, complex For the right candidate, the organisation will offer sponsorship For those candidates outside of Germany, some relocation costs, including the cost of obtaining a permit (if required) will be covered.

The role of the Trustees is to set the organisation’s strategic direction, monitor the delivery of its objectives, and uphold its values and governance. The board will also guide, advise and support the Chair, who leads the delivery team towards achieving their vision and purpose.

For this role, they are specifically looking for someone with a finance background and existing or previous experience in charity finance and governance to work with existing trustees to oversee the financial matters of the charity in line with good practice and legal obligations.

The Board meets formally four to six times per year, mostly online with one in-person meeting annually in central London. In addition, you will be expected to join the Finance, Governance and Risk sub-committee.

Requirements

• Qualified accountant with significant post qualification in internal audit, including leading the internal audit function of an international organisation not for profit organisation.
• Demonstrable experience and understanding of governance, and working with international donors.
• Experience of undertaking partner governance audits, and in special investigations.
• Excellent communication & negotiation skills, experience of working with senior management, board members and Finance & Audit Committee members.

They are seeking someone to start as soon as possible. They anticipate the contract to be initially for 6 months, with the possibility of extension or a longer-term arrangement. They are open to someone working part-time, a minimum of 3 days/week. This role is mostly home-based, with a requirement to attend meetings in the UK office, and for travel overseas to undertake partner audits in eastern and southern Africa.

They are seeking a new Treasurer to support their Board of Trustees in meeting their financial obligations. Specific responsibilities include overseeing, approving and presenting budgets, accounts and financial statements and advising on the financial implications of the organisation’s strategic plans.

Experience of being a Treasurer previously is not essential. They are looking for someone who has skills in financial management with a commitment to the vision, mission and values of the organisation. 

Board members are expected to attend three board meetings a year in February, June and October. The Treasurer also chairs the Finance and Resources Committee which meets four times a year.

Your role, as the third AfID volunteer, will be to focus on strengthening the Executive Director’s financial oversight and analysis as they grow as an organisation. She has self-taught and has advanced her management skills but would benefit from the support of an experienced financial professional to guide her and mentor her in the following areas:

• Financial oversight skills and understanding of internal control mechanisms. You will understand the Executive Director’s current challenges with financial oversight and identify opportunities for improvement.
• You will identify with the Executive Director the type of financial metrics and information that she needs to have for different stakeholders (board members, donors, partners) and brainstorm different ways that this information could be presented.
• Finance & accounting terminology, methods, and systems; for example in the questions asked by donors/partners in grant applications & reports. 
• Develop metrics to track efficiency in the context of making a case on the “value for money” of its comprehensive sexuality education program.

The UK office is responsible for raising funds from institutional donors and governments across Europe, and works with partner organisations around the world to identify, apply for and manage these grants.

Key Responsibilities

• Designing and strengthening financial systems, procedures and controls on grant management and compliance, regularly reviewing and updating these; and training staff as required
• Monitoring programmatic activity and spend, and maintaining the grants management tracker tool.
• Preparing financial information for internal reporting, and assisting in the preparation of the programmes finance elements on statutory financial statements
• Overseeing the financial administration of programmes grants. This includes reviewing concept notes and proposals, preparing donor and sub-grant agreements, setting up grant codes, and preparing donor reports.
• Supporting on budget proposal development and refinement for new grant proposals; and ensuring that donor and the foundation rules on accounting, procurement and project implementation are adhered to.
• Supporting in reviewing and approving due diligence assessments on potential partners, and carrying out monitoring visits and audits of projects.
• Supporting in the preparation of and implementing the recommendations of donor grant audits.
• Undertake overseas travel (around 2-3 trips a year)

Person Specification

• Accountant with at least 3 years of experience in programmes financial accounting & reporting; developing and managing administrative systems; and budgeting, forecasting and cashflow monitoring.
• Experience of institutional grant budget proposal development, compliance, monitoring and reporting; this includes experience in managing DfID, EU, ECHO, German government, Swedish government, and USAID funding.
• Excellent numeracy & financial analysis skills
• Intermediate/advanced knowledge of MSOffice, especially MSExcel
• Excellent command of the English language, both in a written and oral capacity.
• Strong business partnering skills, including experience of working with field staff in an INGO setting.
• Ability to work under pressure, prioritise and meet deadlines.

The organisation offers hybrid working with the successful candidate expected to be in the office in London 1-2 days/week.

In 2022 they implemented the ERP software Odoo for their operations in Vietnam. They currently use it to monitor sales, customers and for their accounting (alongside a separate local system to meet regulatory requirements). They are now looking for volunteer support to help them extend their use of this tool to include production, inventory management, purchases and HR.

The volunteer will help the team to understand the tool and its functionality; provide their expert opinion on the best way to implement its additional functionality; and help set up clear processes for the team to utilise these tools.

The assignment does require a volunteer with good knowledge of Odoo and ideally with experience of implementing it in a previous organisation.

Past AfID volunteers have undertaken an assessment of their accounting systems, processes and controls, helped them move from a manual accounting system to QuickBooks, and coached the accountant on day-to-day accounting as well as financial management.

They have been through a lot of changes in the finance function over the last year. The Finance Coordinator that AfID volunteers worked with left over a year ago and since then they have had 2 Finance Coordinators who also left. They now have a new Finance Coordinator and a new Finance Officer that need training and mentoring. 

Your role will be threefold and include: 

• Reviewing the financial policy and procedures to identify any gaps in practice and in knowledge and provide training on these areas in particular (but not exclusive): 
  • Ensuring their monthly budget vs expenditure is done properly and, if not, identify why and provide support.
  • Reviewing the financial reporting mechanism. The Board required financial reporting every 3 months while some donors require it every quarter or every 6 months. You will review what is in place, the requirements and provide support to the FC and FO to improve reporting and strengthen their capabilities.

• Evaluating the skillset of the finance function; they are seeking the successful candidate to undertake a structure review, assess the skillset of the team, and work with a key member of the senior leadership team to create a new structure and ensure that it works well.
• Review and strengthen their processes and controls. Specifically, they need support around establishing proper reporting tools, covering the production of management accounts & cashflow forecasting. These challenges have always been there, but were only brought to their attention during an audit.
• They have implemented a new system and have been going through processes to embed it ensuring that all the finance team are using it. The current Head of Finance has gone through most of the transition, however, it is anticipated that some more work will be needed to fully embed the software.

Requirements

• Qualified senior accounting/finance professional with experience in working through period of change within an organisation; specifically experience of reviewing & strengthening controls, processes, leading on creating reporting tools, and in systems implementation.
• Strong influencing, negotiating skills.
• Able to manage a varied workload.

They are seeking someone able to make a 6 month commitment. This is part-time contract, with the individual working 3-4 days/week. Due the scope of the projects, specifically, the evaluation of skillset of the finance staff, they would like someone to be in the office at least 2 days/week. They know this is a big ask and are willing to offer a higher day rateto compensate. This role is only open to candidates with the right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship.

They are seeking a Treasurer with experience of working with not for profits in setting strategic financial direction. You would be joining the board at an exciting time, as they implement their new strategy, build on their campaigns and broaden their advocacy to mobilise greater support and achieve change.

In addition to the general responsibilities of a trustee, the responsibility of the Treasurer is to maintain an overview of the organisation's affairs, ensuring its financial viability and that the organisation has policies and systems in place to ensure robust financial planning, implementation and reporting.

This is a substantial and responsible role, and would suit someone able to commit about 18-20 hours three times a year. Board and committee meetings are held three times a year (on Zoom), and there may be ad hoc meetings between these as well as an expectation that support and guidance will be provided to the CEO and other staff on an ongoing basis.

The organisation conducted a comprehensive research trial on the individual and combined impact of sanitary pads and health education across 140 schools in Kilifi County. The results highlighted many shortcomings. They now run interventions in 5 schools, reaching 3600 students with a health education curriculum and they offer tailored menstrual, sexual and reproductive health and rights education to enhance the voice and agency of adolescent girls. 
 
They want to also enact social change through commercial markets, providing high quality but low cost sanitary products which promote and signpost to clear educational messages, phone-based counselling and text-based health information. They sell in urban market and partner with NGOs to reach beneficiaries in rural locations.

There are two volunteer roles, one centred around revalidating their standard operating procedures and upskilling senior leadership in financial oversight and the second one focused on audit preparation.

We had a volunteer confirmed to support them in implementing Xero in 2020. Unfortunately, with that placement unable to proceed due to COVID-19, we provided them with remote volunteer support, helping them make the most out of Excel whilst their migration to Xero was on hold.

They have now successfully implemented Xero, and have proper systems in place. However, their Finance Manager in Zanzibar requires further support and training in it's use. They have spent time and resources to offer her remote coaching; but have realised that her challenges are not easily conveyed over Zoom sessions, and therefore some in person coaching for her is required.

Additionally, the Xero system was designed with the needs of the UK office in mind, whereas 80% of the transactions are undertaken in Zanzibar. As such, they require support in addressing the amount of time spent extracting data and then creating reports on Excel. Separately, payroll and taxes in Zanzibar are extremely complicated, and manipulating Xero to account for these, is something they require support with.

You will be the third AfID volunteer working with this partner and the focus of this placement will be around supporting them in ironing out some specific issues as they look to expand.

They are now selling more products on credit and are also in a position to borrow money. They want to understand what their internal working capital requirements are, and how best these might be met.

As part of this, they want to improve their controls in managing working capital to shop owners. At present, for example, to encourage businesses to use their app and to pay cash on delivery, they are offering incentives (better pricing on the products). However, they do not feel they have enough internal controls to enforce these.

This role requires a volunteer that is comfortable working in a busy environment and more than 50% of the time independently, as the team members are frequently travelling inside India.

They are seeking a Treasurer to oversee the financial management of the organisation, working closely with the finance team to ensure accurate financial records, and preparing and presenting financial reports to the board. The post holder will advise on financial strategy and risk management, and ensure compliance with financial regulations and reporting requirements.

They are particularly keen to receive interest from candidates with experience of working, volunteering, or living in sub-Saharan Africa, and/or exposure to microfinance or social investment.

The Board meets every 2 months, and the Treasurer will also chair the Finance Committee which meets monthly. All meetings take place online.

You will be the third AfID volunteer on placement with this partner. Given that it will have been just under three years since the last placement, and in light of their growth, the first task would be to review their controls and processes; this is especially pertinent in light of their planned further expansion.

They have been putting together a 5-year budget in place for their strategic plan, but require support in finalising this. They also have a new Finance Manager in post, and as such it would be useful to see how comfortable she has been using the existing budgeting and cashflow forecasting templates, and to see if these are relevant in light of their plans to expand.

This has the potential to be a hugely rewarding assignment, giving you the opportunity to make your mark on the organisation as it embarks on an exciting future.

Responsibilities

• This role will oversee the core finance function, covering AP, AR, group reporting, tax and treasury functions.
• Lead on month-end management accounts and group reporting
• Lead in the preparation of the annual budget
• Managing cash and cashflow, including cashflow forecasting.
• Preparation of statutory accounts for the UK, and reviewing statutory accounts produced in overseas country offices, ensuring that these are legally compliant.
• Lead in the annual audit for the UK and country offices.
• Work with the senior leadership on driving improvements within the organisational processes, controls and systems.
• Managerial responsibilities for a number of direct and indirect reports.

Requirements

• Qualified accountant with experience of working in an international group finance function, and covering management accounting & reporting, financial accounting and audit. Experience of this within an international development organisation is preferred, not essential.
• Dynamic individual, with experience of driving improvements with a group finance function.
• Strong business partnering and influencing skills.
• Strong IT and systems skills, including advanced MSExcel. Familiarity with using MSDynamics is preferred.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Experience in managing a team, and building a strong team culture.

This role offers hybrid working with the successful individual expected to be in the office 2 days/week; more time in the office might be required during busier periods. This role is only open to candidates based in the UK, and with the right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship.

Women can access one to one counselling and attend workshops on topics such as reproductive and sexual health, maternal care, hygiene and nutrition, financial and business management, parenting skills and challenging gender stereotypes.

They have recently received a large new grant representing quite a significant increase, both in terms of their budget as well as the workload of the Finance Manager.

The key scope of this role will be around grants management. This will include reviewing and reconfiguring their chart of accounts, to help streamline the workload for the finance team in light of their growth and increased budget. You will help establish a proper process for core costs across the different grants, and support in reviewing and improving their donor reporting.

They have appointed one of their students, who has graduated from school but not gone to university, with an interest in accounting to work with them. She is learning how to input expenses and, more recently, donations into their Quickbooks system. It is hoped that the accountant who has been undertaking these tasks over the last 4 years, will be able to take over responsibilities from the Director in reviewing the accounts, and doing the banking. Both would benefit from coaching.

During this period of transition, there have been many errors made, and they are often not sure what the errors are, and when they do find them, they are not always sure how to correct them. Therefore, they require someone to review their accounts on QuickBooks, identifying errors and helping correct these.

In light of increased transactions, they also require a review of their chart of accounts, to ensure everything is coded properly, as well as an update to their QuickBooks manual.

You will be the second AfID volunteer to visit this partner, and you will primarily be working with the accountant who received training from our previous volunteer. He is using Quickbooks confidently, albeit only as a bookkeeping tool, and your first task will be to review its use and progress since the previous placement.

They would also like to receive support in a number of additional areas:

• Creating a simple bookkeeping process for the restaurant; they do not have the funds to install an electronic till, and therefore all transactions in the restaurant and bar are recorded by hand. They would like to review how this is being done, and suggest how it might be improved to reduce errors.

• Assistance with putting together an annual budget. They currently do not have an organisational budget, and putting one together either on Excel or QuickBooks (depending on the skill set) will help them get better visibility on how much it costs to run the organisation.

• Assistance in creating monthly income & expenditure reports for individual projects, the bar, restaurant & conference centre, and the organisation overall. As part of this, they would benefit from a review of any grants compliance and reporting requirements, to see that they are meeting this.

Key Responsibilities and Duties.

Financial accounting

• Responsible for ensuring financial transactions are recorded accurately and in a timely manner, and that all accounting entries are properly classified and reconciled.
• Required to use NetSuite (NS) Cloud Based Accounting software to record all financial transactions and automate all France financial reports in NS system.
• In order to ensure compliance with the France Chart of Accounts standard, the European Accountant would need to map the organization's chart of accounts to the standard.
• Managing intercompany balances for France entity in EUR currency. Review monthly receivables and payables to US and UK from France entity.

Reporting

• Responsible for preparation of financial statements in accordance with the relevant regulations, including any specific disclosure requirements.
• Collaborate with other finance staff members globally to ensure consistent financial reporting practices across the organization for France Projects. This could involve regular communication with other finance staff members, sharing best practices and providing guidance on accounting standards and regulations.
• Work closely with the Global Director of Finance and Accounting to provide regular updates on financial performance in France, including financial statement preparation and audits

Experience and skills required for the role.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance and/or a related discipline, Diplôme d'Expertise Comptable, or equivalent work experience.
• Practical experience of operating accounting ledgers under Plan Computable General
• Practical knowledge of nonprofit organizations accounting process in EU , UK and USA
  and other countries
• Extensive experience with accounting procedures and systems with problem-solving
  skills.
• Strong IT experience with cloud based accounting platforms
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word, Outlook, PowerPoint and especially Excel
• Skilled in remote management and working across time zones
• Fluent French speaker
• English speaker

They are seeking a Trustee to be an active and engaged member of their Finance Committee, working alongside the Treasurer in scrutinising financial reports, considering the financial risks facing the charity, ensuring that internal financial controls and procedures safeguard the charity’s assets, and developing appropriate financial policies.

The post holder will have an accountancy qualification or an equivalent level of experience and expertise in accountancy and charity finance, as well as risk management. The ideal candidate will have international charity governance and financial management experience, preferably through a previous executive or Trustee role.

Both the Board and Finance Committee meet  4 times annually, either online or in central London. You will also need to engage with your fellow Trustees, the Executive and other staff teams as required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and review proposals for grant audit requests, develop and manage implementation of audit workplans, and work with country and field offices to respond to audit queries in a timely manner.
• Manage the schedule for the organisational Single Audit, responding to audit queries, auditor concerns and findings in a timely manner.
• Lead in implementing the Single Audit and any grant audit recommendations, ensuring that senior leadership are aware of outcomes and corrective actions being taken.
• Develop tools and training materials to support staff in preparing for audits, and support the broader team in rolling out training on policies and procedures relation to grants management and compliance.
• Support in undertaking any special investigations as required

Requirements

• Qualified or QBE auditor, with at least 5 years of experience in managing donor grant audits within the international development sector. This includes planning and organising audits, and working with a range of stakeholders to achieve successful audit completion.
• At least four years of demonstrable knowledge of the compliance and requirements of institutional donors – including US government, European government and FCDO grants.
• Strong communication skills, both written (report writing) and oral, in English. Working knowledge of an additional language, such as French or Spanish is desirable, but not essential.
• Strong interpersonal skills, experienced in working with a range of internal and stakeholders effectively and able to be tactful and have sensitive/challenging conversations.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently.
• Strong financial, analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detail.
• Able to travel domestically and internationally.

This role can be done remotely. There is a preference for the candidate to be US-based, working remotely from anywhere in the US; please note, that in this instance the individual must have the right to work in the US without requiring sponsorship.

At the heart of the team's work is Aid Oversight: improving the ways in which developing country government’s mange aid spending, track, and monitor use of donor funds to ensure that projects are properly delivered. Other areas include anti-corruption, fiduciary risk, and capacity building. 

This role suits someone looking for: progressive responsibility in international development project management; experience in writing high-quality, innovative proposals for agencies such as DFID, the Foreign Office, and the World Bank; and exposure to financial management and internal control reviews

The Consultant will perform a key role in supporting the management of existing projects, including projects in Asia and Africa, and significant travel to these and other locations.

You will also work with us in the identification and development of relevant prospects and technical and financial proposals. Our intention is that you will progress to fully managing several of our projects in terms of budgetary control and financial reporting, recruitment and staffing, client management, strategic oversight, and technical quality assurance, as well as continuing to play an important role in business development and bidding.

Over time, we will support you to develop expertise on the following:
• Project management and oversight;
• Managing complex delivery tasks and project risks;
• Leading technical and financial proposals;
• Understanding local delivery contexts and political economies;

We are looking for someone who is enthusiastic, innovative, energetic, committed to excellence in all their work, and wants to develop or kick-start a career in international development consulting. You may be a newly qualified accountant or with a number of years’ experience post qualification.

We are looking for someone who is keen to take ownership of projects and will seek to maximise their projects’ impact in every way.

• A degree in a relevant field from an internationally recognised university or alternatively a professional accountancy qualification;
• Outstanding English communication skills, both written and oral (essential) 
• Excellent writing skills and the ability to produce persuasive, succinct inputs to proposals
• Excellent inter-personal skills and team-work;
• Good numerical ability with a focus on financial awareness and ability;
• Ability to research and put together information needed for proposals.

Required Experience
• Experience in either external audit or internal audit/controls;
• Demonstrable knowledge of and interest in the world of international development or consultancy sector;
• Demonstrated experience of using initiative, client-orientation, delivery to timelines, and working in complex and pressured contexts 
• Experience of working in developing countries.

They are looking to further expand the range of Trustee skills that they can draw upon, to help lead them through an exciting stage of their development, and are particularly keen on bringing a Trustee onto the Board with knowledge or experience in Finance – as one of the key areas of focus for good governance.

Trustees are expected to prepare for and attend up to six Board meetings a year, plus the AGM. Trustees also need to be available to contribute advice and support on an ad hoc basis as required, and get involved in committee meetings, focusing on People, Audit & Risk, Finance, and Charitable Impact.

They are seeking a Treasurer to help them to continue their growth from a small community start-up into a high-impact, well-renowned, and sustainable international organisation by overseeing their financial management.

With a finance background, you will be responsible for the oversight of their governance, providing strategic support related to financial management, and overseeing robust financial processes for continued growth. Individuals are sought who have a strong empathy with their work and vision, and share their values and commitment to social and racial justice.

The Board meets online every quarter for 2 hours and they also hold one annual away day. You will also join the Finance and Risk committee which also meets every quarter for around 2 hours. The total estimated time commitment required for the role is around 2-3 hours per month.

The Internal Audit team sits within the Risk Assurance service line and delivers outsourced and co-sourced internal audit services to over 500 internal audit clients. With over 200 specialist internal auditors the team is one of the largest internal audit teams in a UK professional accountancy firm and offers excellent opportunities for progression. The team also works with one of our organisation’s largest clients and it is working with this client where the appointee will initially spend most of their time.

The role will be attached to our International Development Assurance Services team providing a wide range of assurance services including internal audit, grant audit and investigation services to our clients in the UK and internationally. This position is UK based with the opportunity for international travel.

You should be able to demonstrate understanding of either central government or international development though working in the UK government or UN systems. We are seeking IIA/CIA or ACCA, ACA, qualified people. Experience in working with unique organisations or organisations with unique operations, and in government policy areas is an advantage but not essential. We don’t expect you to know everything, but you should be enthusiastic, have the adaptability to grasp concepts quickly, evidence your work, project confidence and professionalism to the client and work closely with all grades and cultures in an open supportive team environment.

About the job

You will support the partners and senior managers in the day to day management and delivery of various assurance assignments to our clients.

a) Staff Management

• You will have responsibility for developing more junior members of the team, dealing with team welfare and aiding in development plans;

• You will undertake resource and utilisation planning to ensure all client engagements are adequately resourced in a timely manner; and

• You will participate in the firm’s appraisal and development processes

b) Client Delivery

You will oversee delivery of client work as part of the engagement delivery team, being a recognised Manager for client engagements:

• Managing agreed client portfolio delivering assurance programmes, ensuring work is delivered to time, on budget and in line with the Internal Audit Manual;

• Agreeing engagement scopes with clients;

• Overseeing client delivery by team members;

• Undertaking more specialist/bespoke areas of auditing due to experience;
  Completing quality assurance reviews of internal audit files and reports;

• Overseeing the production of Progress Reports, Annual Reports and Audit Strategies prior to Senior Management sign-off;

• Providing effective stakeholder engagement and relationship management; and

• Representing org as required at networking events and industry group meetings, client management and audit committee meetings.

c) Financial

• You will work towards achievement of a client revenue target commensurate with the nature of the role and;

• Take responsibility for managing assurance contracts in line with agreed budgets

d) Business Development

• You will assist senior management and partners in business development initiatives, including writing tender proposals, being involved in tender presentations and visits to target clients

• A strong ambassador for the org brand, you will promote brand awareness and uphold high ethical standards of business that protect the brand, the UK firm, its staff and clients.

Requirements

Tasks may include

• Undertaking financial and document analysis work;

• Systems review and testing compliance with funders requirements

• Compile, analyse facts and circumstances to formulate, substantiate and critique various theories, evidence and conclusions

• Organise and present complex information in a clear and concise manner

• Research and analysis of complex information to provide a structured, logical and intelligible picture of situations and allegations

• Use data analytical tools such as IDEA would be useful

You must be prepared to work for extended periods on secondment to client offices. You will be required to undertake security related training.

Essential

• Audit / Assurance qualification

• Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder management skills

• High standard of written and verbal communication

• Self-starter and team-player

• An adaptable problem solver

• Experience of Central Government, United Nations or similar bodies

• Be prepared to work on secondment to clients

• Hold, or are prepared to undertake, UK Government security clearance

Desirable

• Experience in health, education, procurement, supply chain, governance, anti-corruption, law enforcement or justice is a distinct advantage.

The Assistant Project Administrator has to assist in providing project coordination for the full life cycle of any assignment offered to our clients; from the proposal process, contract management with the client, assignment planning, through to assisting with the report writing, and ultimately billing the client.

Contract Responsibilities

·Assist with proposal and tender submission, including preparing project budgets and schedules, liaising with prospective staff and ensuring all proposals are submitted within the respective deadlines

·Ensure that contracts are as per the issued proposals, that all terms agreed are in best interests of org and support the Managers/Partners in any contract administration required

·Assist with planning the fieldwork of the project, including agreeing dates with the beneficiary, liaising with internal and external staff to ensure they can perform the required service on the agreed dates and that all parties have the necessary information to ensure the project fieldwork runs smoothly

·Assist with  the drawing of contracts

·Monitor and track project progress and on our ‘Control Schedule’ to ensure all stakeholders are kept up to date with any project developments

·Act as the point of contact for all stakeholders (including the client, the beneficiary, internal/external teams and management)

·Assist the manager in any report-writing tasks that may be required & deliver final product to client

·Monitor internal staff working hours & expenses incurred, to ensure project budgets are adhered to

·Check and process external suppliers’ invoices, making sure all days worked and expenses incurred are within the agreed budget, liaising with finance as and when issues arise

·Assist in client billing, ensuring that all bills issued are as per the contractual terms between the firm and the client, that all costs are accounted for, and that bills are paid by the client in a timely manner

·Create and maintain comprehensive project documentation for future use, ensuring that all projects are properly logged and can be used in future proposals/tenders

·General: translate documents, maintain filing system of documentation by client and by assignment, archive files when necessary

Requirements

Essential

·Fluent English in both verbal and written with excellent communication skills

·Second language, French

·Competent using MS Office

·Strong organisational and time management skills with ability to prioritise and multi-task

·Able to meet deadlines

·Good numeracy skills

·Able to work under pressure with accuracy and focus

·Good eye for detail and the ability to follow through tasks

·Able to be a self-starter and work on own initiative

·Able to demonstrate problem solving skills

·Comfortable within a changing and developing environment

·Able to apply relevant skills to new scenarios

Our partner, sector specialists in International Grant Audit are seeking auditors for a critical role; navigating a diverse group of NGOs & donors, such as the UN & The World Bank operating globally (Malawi, Peru, Vietnam, Belgium, Oxford, Sierra Leone, Brazil, Fiji, Cameroon). You'll be London-based travelling post pandemic 25-40% per annum on assignments 1 to 2 weeks in length in small teams.

These unique and extremely rewarding opportunities would suit experienced audit professionals that love diverse travel and supporting inspiring people and worthwhile causes.

Overseas assignments post pandemic could mean travel to one of over 100 countries/ territories. It presents a fantastic opportunity to see the parts of the world you’d never otherwise get to see, work with lovely people and pick up extremely relevant institutional donor and fieldwork experience; vital for anyone seeking a career in the international development NGO sector.

Role overview

Yoiu will complete expenditure audits of a extremely diverse range of projects funded by international donor institutions ranging from emergency aid, to long term development in areas such as agriculture, health or infrastructure, to more commercial projects such as SME development or technical research. Additionally, depending on your seniority you will provide on the job training and guidance to more junior team members throughout the assignment process.

The role will use all your communication, problem-solving and analytical skills and will give you experience in working with major institutions all over the world. An example assignment might see you leading an audit opening meeting with a UN country office on the Monday morning, before heading off to spend a few days with a local NGO or government partners to audit the way they have spent UN funds. You will look at a sample of supporting documents to make sure the expenditure is genuine and for the purposes intended by UN, and review the internal controls of the NGO, making recommendations as to how these might be improved to strengthen the management of the UN resources. At the end of the fieldwork, you will draft at aide-memoire document and discuss your findings with both the UN and its local partner. At the airport, you could even start drafting the formal report as you wait for your flight back to London.

Requirements

Qualified ACA / ACCA or equivalent (Finalists considered)

Experience, insight &/or exposure to grant funding, reporting or audit. 

Diplomacy and cultural sensitivity while working with a hugely diverse range of clients and beneficiaries

A real interest in international development and associated funding structures

'Ideally' fluency in a second language is preferable, especially in French, Spanish, Russian, German, Portuguese, Italian or Mandarin and Arabic.

Excellent communication, report writing and presentation skills

Team worker

Resilience and adaptability

Internationally recognised audit qualification preferable.

​Personal attributes:

At least two-three years of audit experience

Ability to work under pressure; Strong planning, organisational and time management skills

Sound technical and analytical skills, report writing and presentation skills

Passionate about international travel and development and willing to work in international locations for 30% plus of the time (post pandemic)

Candidates for permanent London based roles must have the right to work in the UK.

Built over 30 years, their talented, diverse and multi-lingual team, from graduates to experienced specialists, have established us as global leaders in our field, across a range of disciplines. This team applies their skills, knowledge and ambition to a variety of challenges and has a genuine passion for what they do.

The manager is at the forefront of the work of the department. Travelling internationally, meeting clients, colleagues and auditees. Leading meetings, leading audit teams, supporting junior colleagues, writing and reviewing audit reports, managing key relationships. Representing the team in person in front of multiple stakeholders. Contributing to the success of our clients and to the development of auditees, as well as your colleagues. The role of manager is both challenging and rewarding, and as well as office-based management work, offers travel experiences that very few other roles can match. In the role, depending on whether you are managing or leading fieldwork, you will:

• Prepare/review a tailored plan for all assignments based on a good understanding of the terms of reference and the applicable contractual conditions
• Lead/support opening meetings with clients and auditees and present the audit findings clearly and credibly at closing meetings
• Lead/support assignment fieldwork teams, including locally based staff, on overseas assignments, or work alone
• Demonstrate the ability to identify issues and areas of non-compliance on an assignment and write them up as findings in a detailed, precise and clear way in the assignment report
• Ensure the high quality of our written outputs by carrying our thorough and informed report reviews
• Lead/support larger country wide teams, acting as the client focal point and taking on management tasks
• Be proactive in supporting junior colleagues with their learning and development
• Be a trusted focal point for clients and service providers, offering solutions and support to them as required
• Be able to work to tight deadlines and manage time effectively
• Be prepared to be out of the office on international assignments for up to 30% of the time*

We’re looking for someone with:

• A genuine interest in international development
• A love of international travel, preferably with experience of working or volunteering internationally
• A second language, especially French, Spanish, German, Russian, Arabic, Portuguese or Mandarin
• A professional accountancy qualification (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)
• An ability to communicate in a professional, constructive and respectful manner
• A proven aptitude for both team management and client support
• At least 5 years’ proven track record in audit and assurance work

* Due to the pandemic, the international travel element of the role has been significantly reduced and replaced largely by remote work. An increase in international travel opportunities is expected when the pandemic eases.

Complete international grant expenditure &/or VFM audits for an extremely diverse range of projects (grant recipients) funded by international donor institutions ranging from emergency aid, to long term development in areas such as agriculture, health or infrastructure, to more commercial projects such as SME development or technical research. Assignments are 1-3 weeks in length and based across the European mainland and the developing world. These are offered on an assignment by assignment basis, one to two months in advance. Please note there is no guaranteed period of work within the contract. Contractors can be based outside the UK on the European mainland but must be able to work in the EU. 

Requirements

• Qualified ACA / ACCA or equivalent

• Grant management and audit and reporting experience with international institutions

• Diplomacy and cultural sensitivity while working with a hugely diverse range of clients and beneficiaries

• A real interest in international development and associated funding structures

• Fluency in a second language (not essential)

• Excellent communication, report writing and presentation skills

• Resilience and adaptability

• Internationally recognised audit qualification preferable.

​ Personal attributes:

• At least 5-10 years of audit experience

• Ability to work under pressure; Strong planning, organisational and time management skills

• Sound technical and analytical skills, report writing and presentation skills

• Passionate about international travel and development and willing to work in international locations

About the Role

The International Assurance Services team are a small but committed team delivering to international governments, donors, public sector bodies, charities and INGOs. They also work closely with our public sector internal audit teams delivering work for the UK Government.

They are looking for qualified internal & external auditors to join their team. Ideally Institute of Internal Auditors qualified, the role involves working with our public-sector clients both in the UK and overseas.

Our work is diverse, so you need to be adaptable, proactive and a self-starter, you could be seconded to a UK government department auditing major change programmes or assigned to audit beneficiary data on a cash transfer programme for the ultra-poor in Zambia; supporting an emerging nations National Audit Office undertake their first forensic assignment or working with the United Nations. Rarely are two weeks the same.

We are looking for adaptable people with a ‘can do’ problem solving attitude. You should be prepared to work away from home occasionally in conflict/post conflict environments or in countries where 5-star comfort comes second to life experiences. Full training will be provided. Ideally, we would like a second language, French, Portuguese, Spanish or Arabic. You will be required to undertake security clearance.

To match our continued growth across Africa we are particularly interested in candidates with experience of / interested in long term overseas posting and those with experience delivering training or mentoring. We are also interested in those who joined internal audit later in their careers where their prior experiences would add real benefits to our clients.

Essential

• IIA/ACA qualification

Desirable

• Masters degree
• 5 years post qualified
• Experience of central government public sector
• Fluent in a second language
• Experience of delivering training or mentoring
• Experience working in developing economies
• Experience in the health sector

Our clients include a number of well-known organisations in the sector undertaking a wide range of activities from working to protect endangered species to undertaking scientific research to providing grants & support to social entrepreneurs.

The division is led by partners who have extensive first-hand experience in the not for profit sector. This enables us to understand the challenging environment these organisations face, which is heightened by an increasing demand for services with greatly constrained resources. Our people have a passion for the sector. Many of the team have worked directly in the not for profit sector before returning to practice, and everyone shares a passion for delivering strong social outcomes as well as financial sustainability – we describe ourselves as sector people who happen to be in practice.

You will be responsible for the planning, on-site running and completion of a portfolio of audit assignments to a range of clients in the not for profit sector. This will include providing on-the-job training to more junior members of the team. The team is also one of the largest providers of international grant verification audit work, through which we work with some of the largest internationally-recognised charities and humanitarian organisations. The role will provide the opportunity for involvement in these which can include global travel opportunities.

Specific responsibilities 

• Attend the pre-assignment discussions with the audit team. • Complete the planning sections of the audit file and draft the Audit Planning Report. • Input into our audit risk assessment, test design and budgeting procedures. • Take ownership for the completion of the audit testing across the file to a high quality. • Allocate work appropriately to junior members of the audit team. • Provide coaching to junior members of the team, review their work and provide feedback. • Ensure that the work undertaken on site is in accordance with the approved plan and time budget. • Communicate effectively, pro-actively advising the manager of any issues or developments that may impact on the timeline or result in adjustments being raised. • Develop an effective working relationship with key client contacts, which could be at FC / FD level. • Respond to all client queries and concerns in an efficient and professional manner, often dealing directly with senior management. • Suggest practical solutions to any issues or problems arising. • Maintain a complete log of outstanding issues and queries. • Clear any manager and partner review points raised, and follow up any outstanding queries. • Provide sound advice to clients and demonstrate knowledge of business issues. After the completion of the on-site audit visit, the senior will be expected to: • Assist with the drafting of the Audit Findings Report issued to the client, in particular regards to control issues and recommendations identified during the audit visit. • Assist with the completion and close-down of the audit file.

Person Specification Skills and Qualifications • A passion for the Not for Profit sector and in developing wider knowledge of the issues affecting our clients. • Accountancy training - audit based. • ACCA or ACA, or equivalent, qualified. • Proven skills in external audit. • Proven skills in audit planning, fieldwork and file completion. • Proven skills in supervising and managing staff. • Enthusiasm to assist with departmental responsibilities beyond the audits, for example business development activities or training of juniors.

Travel opportunities

Geographical location of clients typically London with some work for the European based Donor institutions - so there is scope to travel internationally, the extent to which is largely dependent on the individual.