Finance Officer
About Power Shift Africa
Power Shift Africa (PSA) is a Pan-African think tank that provides cutting-edge analysis, solution-focused policy ideas and up-to-the-minute media engagement from an African perspective, both within and internationally. PSA’s mission is to mobilise climate action in Africa, amplify diverse and unique African voices through strong media presence and communications and to leverage this voice internationally.
As part of our work, we help to build dedicated platforms to bring together African civil society organizations, technical experts, academia, scientists and high-level political and social leadership to engage collectively to drive transformative and Africa-led efforts to attain climate justice. We also provide technical support and advisory services to strategic African institutions and governments to strengthen their work in climate justice.
Role Overview
The Finance Officer will provide expert financial oversight and advice for donor-funded or restricted projects, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of all financial transactions. This role involves managing all financial aspects of projects, from budget preparation to project closure, to ensure compliance and effective financial management. The role will primarily focus on supporting the Strategic communications and advocacy on Climate and Adaptation in Kenya project with additional projects as assigned by Power Shift Africa (PSA) Director.
Key Responsibilities
Transaction Processing and Quality Assurance
Enter all project-related transactions into the finance system promptly.
Prepare and review monthly transaction listings for completeness and accuracy, making necessary adjustments.
Reconcile project transaction accounts monthly.
Ensure all transactions are supported by adequate documentation, approved, and properly filed.
Clear all reversing transactions in a timely manner.
Meet Power Shift Africa deadlines and ensure timely accruals, with periodic reviews and settlements before project closure.
2. Reporting and Analysis
Produce monthly reports as required by the Project Manager or Director, ensuring accuracy and adherence to donor requirements.
Attend oversight group meetings to discuss financial performance and raise any concerns or risks.
Provide financial analysis to support project decision-making.
Prepare and consolidate donor reports and internal management reports, ensuring adherence to timelines and documentation requirements.
Produce explanatory narratives for financial reports as needed.
Design, calculate, and record key performance indicators (KPIs) for projects, providing explanations for variances.
Respond to donor inquiries regarding financial matters.
3. Financial Guidance and Management
Offer technical advice and guidance on project financial management to project managers and PSA teams.
Forecast cash flow requirements and collaborate with the Finance team to manage project cash effectively.
Oversee day-to-day financial operations, including processing invoices and expenditures, in collaboration with the Finance team.
Coordinate with internal and external auditors to manage audits, address requirements, and implement audit recommendations.
Provide quarterly updates on financial progress against the budget, with frequency adjusted as deemed appropriate by the line manager.
Qualifications, Essential Knowledge, Skills and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related business field from a recognized university in Kenya.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) registered with ICPA-K and in good standing.
Minimum of 4 years of experience in finance and accounting, with preference for experience in an NGO setting or as a project accountant/finance officer.
Demonstrable experience in project finance management, donor reporting, and management reporting within an NGO environment.
Experience in balance sheet reconciliations and monthly financial checks; and the production of value-added analysis leading to improved decision-making.
Working knowledge of the latest Sage versions and associated reporting tools.
Ability to manage multiple projects effectively without loss of quality.
Strong understanding and practical application of the regulatory environment for NGOs.
Team player with an ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with non-finance staff.
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and related tools.
Additional information about the role
The Finance officer will be based at Power Shift Africa offices in Nairobi and report to Director, Power Shift Africa. The post is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability.
Application Process
We encourage qualified candidates to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your interest, qualifications and vision for the position. Applications should be submitted to careers@powershiftafrica.org by 23rd August 2024 at 11:59 pm EAT.