Senior Finance Manager

Location: Windhoek

Reports to:  Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Position Overview

The Senior Finance Manager is responsible for managing the financial operations of the organization, ensuring compliance with internal policies and local regulations. This role involves strategic financial planning, budgeting, and financial reporting, with an additional focus on managing donor-funded projects, including those funded by the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). The Senior Finance Manager will ensure accurate financial reporting for donor projects and adherence to donor-specific guidelines, playing a pivotal role in maintaining transparency and accountability.

Key Responsibilities

1. Financial Strategy & Planning
   • Lead the financial planning and budgeting processes in line with corporate objectives.
   • Provide financial analysis and reports to senior management for informed decision-making.
   • Develop long-term financial strategies to ensure sustainability and alignment with organizational goals.
2. Donor Financial Management (Including PEPFAR)
   • Oversee the financial management of donor-funded projects, ensuring compliance with donor guidelines, particularly for PEPFAR-funded projects.
   • Coordinate the preparation of financial reports to donors, including PEPFAR, ensuring that reporting deadlines and financial compliance requirements are met.
   • Ensure the accurate tracking, allocation, and reporting of donor funds and expenditures, including budget modifications and realignments as necessary.
   • Collaborate with project managers and relevant stakeholders to provide financial insight and ensure proper resource utilization on donor projects.
3. Financial Reporting & Auditing
   • Prepare accurate and timely financial statements in compliance with local regulations and international accounting standards (IFRS).
   • Lead the preparation of quarterly, annual, and donor-specific financial reports.
   • Support internal and external audit processes, ensuring that all financial documentation and processes are audit-ready.
   • Ensure compliance with Namibian tax laws, donor requirements, and other statutory obligations.
4. Budgeting & Forecasting
   • Develop and manage the organization’s overall budget, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
   • Monitor and control the budget to ensure the effective use of financial resources.
   • Provide regular budget analysis and variance reports to senior management and donors, identifying and addressing any budget discrepancies.
5. Grants & Compliance Management
   • Ensure that all financial activities related to donor-funded programs comply with the financial requirements of PEPFAR, USAID, and other donors.
   • Work closely with program managers to ensure accurate budget planning, reporting, and compliance with grant agreements.
   • Monitor the financial health of grant-funded projects, identifying and mitigating risks to ensure proper financial stewardship.
6. Risk Management & Internal Controls
   • Develop, implement, and maintain strong internal controls and financial policies to safeguard the organization’s assets.
   • Conduct regular risk assessments and ensure proper financial controls are in place to minimize financial risks.
   • Ensure compliance with legal regulations, donor agreements, and organizational policies.
7. Team Leadership & Development
   • Lead, mentor, and manage the finance team, ensuring their professional development and alignment with organizational goals.
   • Provide training to program and finance staff on financial management best practices, donor compliance, and internal control measures.
8. Stakeholder Engagement
   • Liaise with donors, providing financial updates, resolving any concerns, and ensuring transparency.
   • Work collaboratively with internal teams, donors, auditors, and external stakeholders to ensure financial and project success.
   • Represent the organization in donor meetings and relevant finance-related discussions, particularly for PEPFAR projects.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field. A Master’s degree or relevant certifications like CPA or ACCA will be a preference.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in financial management, with at least 5 years in a senior role.
• Proven experience in managing donor-funded projects, particularly PEPFAR or other US government-funded programs.
• Strong understanding of international donor compliance regulations and financial reporting requirements.
• Solid knowledge of Namibian financial laws, IFRS, and taxation principles.

Key Competencies

• Strong financial acumen and analytical skills, with an ability to develop complex financial models and reports.
• Excellent organizational and leadership abilities.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage with senior management and donors effectively.
• Advanced proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Excel.
• High level of integrity, ethics, and attention to detail.
• Experience in preparing and managing PEPFAR financial reports is highly desirable.