Senior Financial Auditor

The Finance Audit Specialist role is a pivotal position within our organization, responsible for overseeing the financial management, reporting, and control functions. This esteemed individual will lead the establishment of robust financial audit systems, implement world-class financial systems, and ensure compliance with international accounting standards and relevant regulatory requirements.

This strategic role will safeguard our financial assets, provide critical financial guidance to senior leadership, and contribute to our mission of promoting solar energy deployment globally. The successful candidate will play a vital part in maintaining the financial integrity and transparency of our organization, fostering trust among member countries and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities:

• Financial Leadership and Strategy:
  • Develop and implement our financial and audit strategy in alignment with our overall strategic objectives.
  • Provide strategic financial advice and guidance to senior leadership on financial planning, resource allocation, and investment decisions.
  • Monitor financial performance against budgets and strategic plans, identifying and addressing potential risks and opportunities.
• Financial Audit System Development & Implementation:
  • Establish a comprehensive audit framework: design and implement a robust internal audit framework and policies aligned with international best practices (e.g., COSO framework, Institute of Internal Auditors standards).
  • Risk-Based Audit Planning: conduct regular risk assessments to identify key areas of financial risk and develop a risk-based audit plan that prioritizes high-risk areas.
  • Audit Execution and Reporting: conduct independent internal audits of financial transactions, processes, and systems to assess compliance with policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements. Prepare clear and concise audit reports with findings, recommendations, and action plans.
  • Follow-Up and Remediation: monitor the implementation of audit recommendations and track progress in addressing identified deficiencies.
  • Continuous Improvement: regularly review and update the internal audit framework and processes to ensure they remain effective and aligned with evolving business needs and regulatory requirements.
• World-Class Financial Systems Implementation & Management:
  • Financial System Evaluation and Selection: lead the evaluation, selection, and implementation of an integrated, world-class financial management system (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics) that meets our current and future needs.
  • System Configuration and Customization: work with IT and external consultants to configure and customize the financial system to align with our specific requirements and accounting practices.
  • Data Migration and Integration: oversee the migration of financial data from legacy systems to the new financial system, ensuring data accuracy and integrity. Integrate the financial system with other relevant systems (e.g., grants management, project management) to streamline processes and improve data visibility.
  • System Training and Support: develop and deliver comprehensive training programs for finance staff and other users on the new financial system. Provide ongoing support and troubleshooting assistance.
  • System Maintenance and Upgrades: manage the ongoing maintenance and upgrades of the financial system, ensuring it remains secure, reliable, and up-to-date with the latest technology.
• Treasury and Cash Management:
  • Manage our cash flow and investments, ensuring optimal liquidity and returns while minimizing risk.
  • Establish and maintain banking relationships, negotiating favorable terms and conditions.
  • Monitor foreign exchange exposures and implement hedging strategies as needed.
• Compliance and Risk Management:
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and accounting standards.
  • Develop and maintain internal controls to safeguard our financial assets and prevent fraud.
  • Conduct regular risk assessments to identify and mitigate financial risks. Establish and maintain a robust system of internal controls to safeguard our assets and ensure the accuracy and reliability of financial reporting.
• Financial Accounting and Reporting:
  • Oversee all aspects of financial accounting, including general ledger maintenance, accounts payable and receivable, and fixed asset management.
  • Ensure the accurate and timely preparation of financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) or other relevant international accounting standards.
  • Prepare and present financial audit reports to senior leadership, providing clear and concise explanations of financial performance.
• Budgeting and Forecasting:
  • Support the development of realistic and achievable budgets.
  • Develop and maintain financial forecasting models to project future financial performance and support strategic decision-making.
  • Monitor budget performance throughout the year, identifying and addressing variances and implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Grants and Project Financial Management:
  • Establish and maintain robust financial controls for grants and project funding, ensuring compliance with donor requirements.
  • Monitor project expenditures and ensure that funds are used for their intended purposes.
  • Prepare financial reports for donors and other funding agencies.
• Team Management and Development:
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing finance team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
  • Conduct performance evaluations, provide feedback, and identify opportunities for professional development.
• Stakeholder Relations:
  • Build and maintain effective relationships with relevant stakeholder groups, including (but not limited to) personnel responsible for Voluntary Contribution, donors, partners, and financial institutions.
  • Represent our organization in financial matters at international forums and conferences as required.

Qualifications and Experience:

We seek a seasoned finance professional with a Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. Professional accounting certification is highly desirable. A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in auditing, finance, and accounting roles, with at least 5-7 years in a senior management position (e.g., Controller, Head of Finance), is required. Demonstrated experience in establishing robust financial audit systems and implementing world-class financial systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics) is essential. Strong knowledge of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) or other relevant international accounting standards is also required.

Skills:

• Technical Skills:
  • Expert knowledge of financial accounting principles and practices.
  • Proficiency in using financial management systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics).
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent budgeting and forecasting skills.
  • Knowledge of internal control frameworks (e.g., COSO).
• Leadership Skills:
  • Strategic thinking and planning.
  • Strong leadership and team management skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to influence and persuade at all levels of the organization.
  • Strong ethical standards and integrity.
• Other Skills:
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
  • Proficiency in other languages (e.g., French, Spanish) is an asset.
  • Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy.