Job Description:
JOB DESCRIPTION:
The Head of Finance at Caritas Fiji plays a crucial role in ensuring the financial sustainability and integrity of our organization’s operations. Working within the dynamic landscape of humanitarian and development work, you will contribute significantly to the success of Caritas Archdiocese of Suva’s (Caritas Fiji’s) mission, which centres on championing timely inclusive Humanitarian, Justice and Development Responses for a Socially, Economically and Ecologically balanced Society.
This position requires a seasoned professional with expertise in financial management, strategic planning, and leadership, coupled with a deep understanding of nonprofit operations. The ideal candidate should possess a proven track record in developing and implementing financial policies, ensuring regulatory compliance, and navigating the intricacies of donor relations, particularly in the context of international grants. Strong analytical skills, the ability to mitigate financial risks, and a commitment to fostering a culture of excellence within the finance team are essential for success in this role.
Additionally, the Finance Officer should excel in external relations, collaborating seamlessly with auditors, government agencies, and funding partners to uphold Caritas Fiji’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the effective utilization of resources in pursuit of our humanitarian and development goals.
Note: This is a senior leadership role with diverse responsibilities, and the employee should be prepared to contribute strategically to the overall success and growth of Caritas Fiji
- Financial Leadership:
- Provide strategic financial guidance to the Director and Board of Directors, aligning financial objectives with the overall organizational strategy.
- Monitor and provide recommendations where required financial policies, procedures, and internal controls to safeguard the organization’s assets.
- Conduct thorough financial analysis to support decision-making processes.
- Provide insights into cost reduction opportunities, revenue enhancement, and overall financial efficiency.
- Management of Internal Caritas Accounts by maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with organizational policies.
- Budgeting and Planning:
- Lead budgeting processes, collaborating closely with the Head of Programs to ensure budgets align with organizational goals.
- Monitor and analyse financial performance against budgets, offering insights and recommendations for optimization.
- Create and maintain accurate financial forecasts to guide decision-making and resource allocation.
- Financial Reporting:
- Prepare timely and accurate financial statements, providing a clear overview of the organization’s financial performance.
- Ensure compliance with accounting standards and regulatory requirements.
- Conduct periodic audits to ensure adherence to financial policies and procedures.
- Donor Compliance:
- Oversee the financial aspects of grant proposals, ensuring strict compliance with donor requirements.
- Collaborate with program teams to develop comprehensive budget proposals for funding applications.
- Financial Risk Management:
- Identify and mitigate financial risks through effective risk management practices.
- Implement strategies to optimize the organization’s financial health, ensuring sustainability and resilience.
- Team Leadership:
- Conduct training sessions when the need is identified to enhance the financial acumen of staff across the organization.
- External Relations:
- Collaborate with external auditors, government agencies, and funding partners to facilitate audits and financial reviews.
- Build and maintain positive relationships with financial stakeholders, representing Caritas Samoa with professionalism.
- Oversight of Payroll:
- Manage and oversee payroll processes, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Implement efficient payroll systems and procedures.
- Oversight of Annual Fundraising Collections:
- Lead the planning and execution of annual fundraising collections, coordinating with churches/parishes and ensuring financial transparency.
- Monitor and report on fundraising progress, ensuring all funds are allocated according to donor intentions.
- Asset and Office Management:
- Develop and implement strategies for effective asset management, including the acquisition, depreciation, and disposal of organizational assets.
- Ensure accurate and up-to-date records of all organizational assets, tracking their value and usage.
- Oversee office management functions, including the timely payment of bills and adherence to budget allocations.
- Organizational Improvement:
- Attend and seek professional development opportunities for staff and volunteers.
- Human Resources: Support HR functions, including, but not limited to, recruitment, training, performance management, and employee relations.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.
- Proven experience in financial management roles, demonstrating progressively responsible positions.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Advanced knowledge of spreadsheet applications.
- Analytical Skills: Proficient in analysing financial data to inform strategic decision-making.
- Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor teams, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
- Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills to convey financial information effectively.
- Problem-Solving: Adept at identifying financial challenges and implementing effective solutions.
- Regulatory Compliance: In-depth understanding of financial regulations and compliance requirements.
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to align financial initiatives with organizational strategy.
- Interpersonal Skills: Effective collaboration with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.
- Adaptability: Capacity to adapt to changing financial landscapes and evolving organizational needs.
Please send you applications and CV’s to Vacancies@caritasfiji.org.
Applications close at 5:00pm on Monday 31st March 2025. (Extended new date)
