Finance Officer

Call for Application: Finance Officer

The Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation works to accelerate Africa’s Economic Transformation through social entrepreneurship, science and technology, innovation, public health, and progressive policies that create economic opportunities for all. Our areas of work include sustainable development, science and innovation, health, leadership, education, entrepreneurship, economic and public policy. The Denis and Lenora Foundation is an umbrella non-profit institution with several departments, including the Nkafu Policy Institute, the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Center, the Communication Department, and the Sustainable Development Programs.

We are seeking a highly experienced Finance Officer to join our dynamic team. This is a full-time position based in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

Description

The Finance Officer will provide strategic leadership and oversight of the organization’s financial and operational functions. The position is responsible for ensuring sound financial management, regulatory compliance, effective budgeting, financial reporting, audit coordination, human resource administration, and operational support. The Finance Officer will supervise the accounting team and work closely with management to strengthen organizational performance and sustainability.

Financial Management and Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with applicable financial regulations, donor requirements, statutory obligations, accounting standards, and organizational policies and procedures.
• Develop, implement, and maintain robust financial management systems, internal controls, and risk management frameworks.
• Monitor organizational financial performance and ensure the efficient utilization of financial resources.
• Oversee cash flow management and ensure the organization’s financial stability and sustainability.
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of financial transactions and maintenance of financial records.
• Supervise accountants and provide technical guidance to ensure compliance with established accounting standards and procedures.

Budgeting, Planning, and Financial Analysis:

• Lead the preparation, implementation, and monitoring of annual organizational and project budgets.
• Coordinate periodic budget reviews and recommend adjustments based on organizational priorities and funding realities.
• Analyze revenue, expenditure, and financial performance trends to support strategic planning and decision-making.
• Develop financial forecasts and provide recommendations to mitigate financial and operational risks.

Financial Reporting and Audit Coordination:

• Ensure the timely preparation and submission of accurate financial reports for management, donors, regulators, and the Board.
• Coordinate annual financial audits and ensure the availability of audited financial statements.
• Serve as the primary liaison with external auditors and regulatory authorities on financial matters.
• Monitor and facilitate the implementation of audit recommendations and corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with donor reporting requirements and grant management obligations.

Team Leadership and Performance Management:

• Provide leadership, supervision, mentoring, and capacity-building support to the finance and administration teams.
• Establish performance objectives and conduct annual staff performance evaluations.
• Promote accountability, collaboration, and continuous professional development within supervised teams.
• Foster a positive and high-performance work environment aligned with the organization’s values and mission.

Project Financial Oversight and Grant Management:

• Provide financial oversight and administrative support for organizational projects and programs.
• Monitor project budgets and expenditures to ensure compliance with donor requirements and approved work plans.
• Support project teams in financial planning, budgeting, reporting, and resource utilization.
• Ensure timely submission of donor financial reports and compliance documentation.

Donor Relations and External Communications:

• Manage professional correspondence with donors, volunteers, scholarship beneficiaries, nonprofit organizations, government institutions, and other stakeholders.
• Support the preparation of financial and administrative information required for donor engagement and reporting.
• Contribute to the development of proposals, budgets, and funding-related documentation as required.

Strategic Support and Organizational Development:

• Collaborate with the Director of Operations and senior management to assess organizational needs and identify areas for improvement.
• Develop recommendations and support the implementation of initiatives aimed at strengthening organizational effectiveness and sustainability.
• Contribute to the development and review of organizational policies, procedures, and strategic plans.
• Promote a culture of integrity, accountability, ethical conduct, diversity, and excellence across the organization.

Human Resources:

• Provide administrative and operational support for human resource functions, including recruitment, onboarding, employee documentation, performance management processes, attendance tracking, and other HR-related activities as assigned.

Reporting Relationship:

This position reports to the Director of Operations.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 5 years of working experience in a similar position with at least 2 years within an NGO setting.
• Advanced computer proficiency (Windows XP, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Access, Microsoft PowerPoint, and Microsoft Excel) required.
• Experience using accounting systems such as QuickBooks or similar platforms.
• Familiarity with project management and collaboration tools, such as Microsoft Planner, ClickUp, etc.
• Bilingualism (French and English is an absolute necessity).

Education:

• Professional Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Finance or related fields. A master’s degree will be preferred.

Key Skills Required:

• Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting standards, and internal control systems.
• Expertise in budgeting, financial planning, forecasting, and financial analysis.
• Ability to interpret financial data and provide strategic recommendations to management and the Board for decision-making.
• Experience in cash flow management, treasury management, and financial risk assessment.
• Knowledge of donor financial management and grant compliance requirements.
• Experience coordinating external audits and implementing audit recommendations.
• Proficiency in accounting software and financial management systems.
• Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills with the ability to identify trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Strong organizational planning and resource management skills.
• Capacity to align financial and operational strategies with organizational objectives.
• Experience managing multiple projects and donor-funded programs simultaneously.

Communication Skills:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong report-writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with senior management, Board members, donors, auditors, and external stakeholders.
• Strong negotiation and stakeholder engagement skills.

Application Process:

All applications will be completed ONLINE using the Application Portal below.
To complete your application, you will need:

• A one-page cover letter indicating your interest (in PDF)
• A curriculum vitae/ Resume (in PDF)
• A professional photo

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Female candidates are highly encouraged to apply.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.