The Finance Officer will be responsible for (a) ensuring that payments requirements are met based on USAID policies and procedures; (b) implement financial procedures in compliance with Creative and USAID policies and procedures; (c) Preparation of payroll and staff reimbursements (d) Timely disbursement for small grants related payments to field offices.

REPORTING & SUPERVISION

This position reports to the Finance Manager.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist in preparation of budgets, monitor, review, and revise as required.
• Coordinate with the Grants Department to reconcile finance record of grants.
• Initiate and follow through on information gathering and documents needed with the Government of Ghana, Headquarters, and relevant ministries on renewal of MOU, tax exemption, banking, leases, and other contracts.
• Monitor compliance of grantees through field visits and financial report review provide training and orientation to new field staff. Bring potential non-compliance issues to the attention of the Finance Manager.
• Oversee cash flow, adherence to Ghanaian tax and labor laws.
• Prepare financial reports for Headquarters prior to submission to Finance Manager.
• Implement procedures and forms for request and issue of funds for program needs.
• Assist Finance Manager in forecasting and request cash transfers from HQ to ensure adequate supply of funds in country.
• Pay authorized bills to contractors, suppliers, and monthly payroll for employees.
• Check petty cash vouchers, receipts, and replenish to established levels upon receipt of replenishment requests.
• Produce segregated finance records at the request of the Finance Manager such as expenses for specific locations or grants.
• Cooperate and assist in audit requirements.
• Assist Finance Manager to produce Monthly Finance Reports according to HO procedures and submit by the mandated deadline.
• Maintain grant financial records.
• Oversee project procurement in accordance with contract and Creative requirements.
• Assist in compiling and reviewing timesheets of the staff so that payroll is processed in a timely and accurate fashion.
• Assist with financial tracking of local sub-contractors and fixed price contracts as needed
• Undertake other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field (Finance, Accounting etc) required, professional accounting/financial qualification highly desired.
• Must have a minimum of 4 years working experience with over 2 years of specific experience related to the position required.
• Experience with USAID program finances and budgeting (preferred) or similar work for other donors/U.S. Government agencies.
• Competence in computers and using financial software.
• Understanding of budget and cost control management.
• Excellent written and spoken English skills.
• Proficiency in any of the languages spoken in northern Ghana desired.
• Must be willing to work and be based in Northern Ghana.
• Must have existing work authorization for Ghana.