JOB ANNOUNCEMENT HEAD OF ACCOUNTING
Ref: IRS/04/2017/19 The Africa Rice Centre (AfricaRice) is seeking a highly qualified HEAD OF ACCOUNTING to be based at Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. About AfricaRice AfricaRice is a leading pan – African rice research organization committed to improving livelihoods in Africa through strong science and effective partnerships. AfricaRice is a CGIAR Research Centre – part of a global research partnership for a food ‐ secure future. It is also an Intergovernmental association of African member countries. Its membership comprises of 26 countries, covering West, Central, East and North African regions. Responsibilities The Head of Accounting is responsible for providing high level professional backstopping to the Director of Finance in order to ensure the integrity and custodianship of all financial, treasury, accounting, inventory and asset management functions of the Centre. The position is responsible for the efficient functioning of the Finance Division, at both AfricaRice headquarters and all field stations (Outstations), under the leadership of the Director of Finance. He / She will conduct activities with specific tasks that include, but are not limited to: • All Treasury functions, relating to headquarters and all the Outstations; • Accounting operations, relating to headquarters and all the Outstations; • In collaboration with other AfricaRice Units and Outstations, facilitate the timely closing of monthly management accounts, with any appropriate financial analysis and financial reporting as may be required by AfricaRice Management, and the Board of Trustees; • Actively participate and coordinate with the External Auditors on the timely completion of the yearly audit and assist in the provision of responses to Management letters in collaboration with all affected units. This will include any special project audits as may be required by the donors; • All banking, investment and other financial matters of the Centre; • Ensure continuous development and strengthening of appropriate internal control mechanisms to ensure the integrity and effective management of the operations of the Finance Unit, including the financial activities in Outstation offices; • Assist in organizing, training and development of AfricaRice Accounting Unit staff at headquarters and the representatives based in Outstations in order to ensure that they are able to operate effectively in their particular areas of responsibilities • Ensure timely financial status reports for AfricaRice Management, and other stakeholders; 1
•
Continuously review and develop financial procedures and guidelines for proper functioning of all financial operations. In this regard to assist in the development, review and update of appropriate Finance Procedures Manuals for use both at Headquarters and at all Outstations; Backstop the Director of Finance in the provision of other finance related assistance to the Management as may be required; Undertake any other duties as the Director of Finance shall require.
• •
Qualifications/Selection Criteria Education: University degree in Accounting or Finance, and qualification as professional accountants with CPA or equivalent professional qualification. Advanced degree is an asset. Work Experience: Minimum of five years of progressive experience in accounting or financial management or related fields. Experience in managing project‐based accounting systems. Experience in financial reporting to donors; Experience living and/or working in a developing country. Prior experience in team management and motivation and strong organization skills; Key Competencies Required: Ability to use multi‐module Financial Accounting software and have a high proficiency in use of Ms Excel, Access, Word and other standard software. Ability to work in a multicultural team. Ability to work in a stressful environment and under pressure. Ability to motivate and manage staff. High integrity and openness combined with commitment to good governance. Excellent communication skills, orally and written, including the ability to make persuasive presentations. Desirable Strong knowledge of ERP systems especially of AGRESSO will be a major advantage. Language The candidate should communicate fluently (orally and in writing) in English or French with a good working knowledge of the other language. Terms and Conditions o o o o
This is an internationally recruited position. AfricaRice provides an attractive international salary and benefits package and a collegial and gender‐sensitive working environment. The initial appointment is for three years with the possibility for renewal. The normal retirement age for internationally recruited staff at AfricaRice is 65.
Application procedure Expressions of interest (a full CV + supporting statement) including the names and addresses (telephone / email) of three referees should be submitted. To apply for this position, please send your applications to
[email protected] with the following mention in subject: “Recruitment process – Head of accounting”. Applications will be considered until Tuesday, August 15, 2017. 2
AfricaRice is an equal opportunity employer. It believes that diversity of its staff contributes to excellence and welcomes applications from qualified women, developing country professionals and persons with disabilities. AfricaRice thanks all applicants but only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. To learn more about us, please visit our website at www.AfricaRice.org
3