Finance Director - CeSHHAR Zimbabwe

job Description

About CeSHHAR Zimbabwe:
CeSHHAR Zimbabwe is a leading organization specializing in population health research and programming, with a focus on sexual and reproductive health and HIV/AIDS. Our diverse funding base includes prestigious institutions such as the Wellcome Trust, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, USAID, Global Fund, UNICEF, and UNFPA. We collaborate closely with the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (UK), Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Health and Child Care, and other global research centers to evaluate national programs, measure impact, and assess the cost-effectiveness of innovative reproductive health interventions.

Position Overview;
The Finance Director, reporting to the Executive Director, is a key member of the Senior Management Team (SMT). This role is responsible for defining and executing the financial strategy of CeSHHAR Zimbabwe while managing the financial operations across 18 projects funded by 15 different donors. The Finance Director ensures robust financial management systems, compliance with regulatory and donor requirements, and long-term financial sustainability. The role involves translating strategy into actionable plans, overseeing financial governance, and enhancing organizational efficiency.

Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy:
-Develop and implement financial strategies that support organizational growth and sustainability.
-Ensure compliance with local regulations, donor requirements, and relevant policies.
-Regularly review and update financial policies and procedures to maintain operational efficiency.
-Lead the preparation of annual financial statements and oversee external audits.
-Evaluate and approve project budgets to ensure comprehensive cost coverage.
-Provide financial forecasting and analysis to support strategic decision-making.
-Offer strategic financial insights to the Board and SMT, ensuring informed decision-making.
-Oversee donor contract cycles from pre-award to closeout, ensuring compliance.
-Maintain financial reporting in line with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

Financial Management & Governance:
-Oversee the organization’s financial health by managing risk and ensuring strong financial governance.
-Monitor and control project budgets, tracking expenditure against financial plans.
-Act as the authorized official for contracts and grant agreements.
-Manage cash flow and treasury functions to ensure operational efficiency.
-Analyze economic trends and their impact on organizational operations.
-Implement and monitor internal controls to safeguard financial integrity.
-Oversee documentation processes to ensure compliance with audit requirements.

Operational & Administrative Support:
-Analyze monthly donor expenditure and provide recommendations for corrective actions.
-Oversee lease agreements, utilities, and site operations.
-Ensure optimal recovery of overhead costs.
-Supervise procurement processes for cost-effective resource utilization.
-Strengthen internal control systems by identifying and addressing weaknesses.
-Maintain strong relationships with banks, donors, and regulatory authorities.
-Ensure payroll integrity and efficiency in payroll processing.
-Implement audit recommendations to enhance internal financial controls.

Staff & Team Leadership:
-Structure and manage the Finance Department to align with organizational objectives.
-Provide leadership and mentorship to the finance team, ensuring optimal performance.
-Implement staff safeguards and controls to enhance departmental efficiency.

Qualifications and Experience

-Professional Certification: CA, ACCA, or CIMA.
-Education: MBA from a reputable institution and a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting.
-Experience: At least 10 years in finance, with 5 years in senior management.
-Sector Knowledge: Experience in NGOs and project-based financing is advantageous.
-Expertise: Strong background in grants management, financial reporting, and organizational support.

Skills:
-Strategic financial planning and risk management.
-Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
-Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
-Proven leadership, integrity, and professionalism.
-Ability to navigate multicultural environments and complex donor reporting requirements.