They are supported by a UK based non-profit, who fundraise and oversee operations in close partnership. Together, they have transformed the lives of over 60,000 people in the communities they work, including 20,000 young girls.

The Board and local staff lack the expertise in financial management to implement their agreed Finance Action Plan and attempts to make financial management systems and procedures used across the partnership more compatible have had mixed success to date.

Following the support of an AfID volunteer for a few weeks in 2023, they now require the support of a volunteer (ideally for a longer period) to carry out the following tasks:

• Reviewing the use of the new templates introduced by the previous volunteer.
• Conducting a financial capacity assessment of the Board, Finance Committee and staff.
• Identifying skills gaps and providing financial training to the Board, Finance Committee and staff as required.
• Reviving the Finance Action Plan.
• Reviewing and assessing financial procedures including monthly financial reporting, budgeting and actual/variation analysis, expenditure and program cost forecasting and make recommendations to these key financial outputs.
• Supporting the Board with a review of key governance and policy documents, including the Financial Policy and Procurement Policy.

Objectives:

• Undertake a needs assessment, working with the working group to understand specific requirements, and assess the current template, including identifying key data fields, and assessing the feasibility oof integrating it in to Sun Systems.
• Develop a template, and if it is developed in Excel to integrate it in to Sun Systems.
• Develop a user manual, and conduct training sessions for staff.

Requirements:

• Strong analytical skills, with experience in financial data management and developing models on Excel.
• Experienced in Excel, Google Sheets and/or Sun Systems.
• Excellent communication skills, and experience in training staff.
• Knowledge of INGO finance operations, salary recharges and grant funding is strongly preferred.

Please note, that:

• It is envisioned that the work will take around 10 days, and can be completed on a part-time basis. That is why they have a 6 week timeframe, but ideally would prefer the work to be completed sooner.
• The organisation will accommodate fully remote work.

Our partner is providing essential audit services to a number of large institutions around the world, this specialist team works closely with global clients such as The United Nations & The World Bank – delivering and managing international development grant-funded programmes. This long established, diverse and multi-lingual team are global leaders in this field.

You’ll be someone who is both comfortable working proactively and managing your own tasks, as well as confident collaborating with others and communicating regularly with senior managers, directors, and partners to help businesses effectively. You’ll be encouraged to identify and draw attention to opportunities for enhancing our delivery and providing additional services to organisations we work with.

Our team works closely with global institutions such as UN agencies, the European Commission, Foundations and other Development Agencies, particularly those involved in international development. The team provides assurance services, including financial and systems audits, certifications, internal control assessments, technical assistance, and consultancy services to international institutions

This role is at the forefront of the work of our department. As an Audit Senior, you will lead meetings with institutions and beneficiaries, coordinate and lead audit teams carrying out our fieldwork and write audit reports. You will play a vital role in representing the organisation in person leveraging your language capabilities before multiple stakeholders which can include multiple international development agencies and partners.

You'll be required to travel internationally (up to 40%), dependent on the requirements of the assignments. Perform remote audits managing teams both on-site and virtually. You'll acquire and in depth understanding of the development sector and the activities of the international donors. This role requires fluency in both English and German. In this role you'll:

• Prepare a tailored plan for all assignments based on a good understanding of the terms of reference and the applicable contractual conditions
• Lead opening meetings with clients and auditees and present the audit findings clearly and credibly at closing meetings
• Lead assignment fieldwork teams, including locally based staff, on overseas assignments, or working alone
• Identify issues and areas of non-compliance on an assignment and write them up as findings in a detailed, precise and clear way in the assignment report
• Lead larger country wide teams, acting as the client focal point
• Deliver client work to tight deadlines and manage time effectively

You will be someone with:

• A professional accountancy qualification (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)
• A genuine interest in international development and a love of travel
• Excellent spoken and written communication in English and German is a minimum criteria
• An ability to liaise with internal and external stakeholders in a professional, constructive and respectful manner
• Have a proven track record in audit and assurance work

The have been progressively and methodically reviewing their financial procedures over the last 2+ years, but there are several areas that remain outstanding. They are seeking the support of a volunteer to help them complete the review and establish new or updated procedures.

The work would involve reviewing each procedure/policy, drawing together the relevant pre-existing materials, researching best practice, consulting key members of staff and producing draft procedures for review.

The specific areas that need to be looked at are as follows:

Procedures

• Grants to third-party beneficiaries
• Payroll policy and payments
• Travel payments and reimbursements
• Statutory Financial Reporting
• Accruals
• Reclasses/Journal entries

Policies (if time allows)

• Treasury management and investment
• Financial Reserves

They are seeking a volunteer, with experience of developing and implementing financial procedures, able to make a time commitment of 2-3 hours a week over a 2 month period.

They have grown considerably over the last few years from a team of 8 in 2019 to 16 in 2022. They now manage multiple grants to deliver new projects. As they have grown, they have realised the need for an improvement in their financial systems to be able to effectively manage and report on the external funding they have received.

Having received a AfID in-person in early 2023, they now require a follow up placement where a volunteer will provide support in the following areas:

• Review their use of Quickbooks, supporting them in making any accounting corrections, and also in making the most of the software.
• Coach them in undertaking bank reconciliations, and in undertaking old bank reconciliations, bringing these up to date. 
• They have requested support in taking the lead on consolidating the accounts of the three entities so that management can get a complete picture of the finances and financial health of the whole organisation. Part of your work will also be to develop templates/tools to help them manage this process themselves going forward.
• They are looking to decentralise finance responsibilities, and are keen on more involvement from Project Officers. They would like coaching for them to understand the importance of proper record keeping, project budgeting and reporting.
• Undertake a review of their grant systems and support improvements to improve accuracy of grant reporting.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for day to day accounting, including posting transactions and undertaking reconciliations, making supplier payments and managing staff and company expenses.
• Issue payslips, and ensure that timesheets are completed in accordance with organisational and donor funding requirements.
• Assist in grants financial management, including in reviewing expenses and the preparation of donor reports.
• Assist in office administrative matters, including assisting with logistics/events planning, office supplies, premises and supplier management, and maintaining the fixed asset register.

Requirements

• Accounting professional, studying towards an accounting qualification, with at least three years of experience working in an accounting role within the not for profit sector.
• Astute, able to manage a varied workload, with a strong attention to detail.
• Competent IT user, with experience in Excel and Sage.
• Good communication skills and relationship management skills, both verbal and written.
• Interest in international development and human rights

This role requires a right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship. The organisation offers hybrid working with the individual expected to be in the office in London 2 days/week.

They require an Independent Examination of their accounts for the financial year 1st January 2023 to 31st December 2023, in preparation for submission to the Charity Commission.

They are seeking a suitably qualified volunteer to undertake the examination in line with Charity Commission guidelines, and they are ideally looking for someone who has undertaken an Independent Examination previously.

The accounts have been produced on Xero, where all transactions have been recorded. There are some supporting documents contained within Google sheets, which are ready for review.

It is estimated that the work can be undertaken within 1 week and the examination needs to be completed before the end of October.

Currently day-to-day accounting and finance activities are undertaken by a full-time volunteer with support from the Founding Director, neither of whom have an accounting background. They are fortunate to have a Board member, who is a Certified Accountant, who provides oversight and guidance on the organisation’s financial management, visiting the office once or twice a week.

As the first AfID to support this partner you will undertake an initial review of their accounting processes, procedures and controls before making recommendations on how these can be strengthened, streamlined and improved and starting to implement these changes.

Broadly, they are requiring support in the following areas:

• Improving their financial reporting
• Improving their expenditure record keeping
• Reviewing their use of QuickBooks
• Providing guidance on financial strategy

The organisation does have written policies and procedures and these should be reviewed and updated based on changes implemented as per the above.

The role is a 12 month FTC, and is an excellent opportunity for an accountant (even newly qualified) looking to break into international charity finance, or someone looking for their first international charity finance posting.

Responsibilities

• Review and strengthen the control environment, implementing recommendations, and working with and coaching staff to ensure that these are understood and adhered to consistently.
• Support in the development of and adherence to processes around cash management, recording and allocation of income and expenditure, and procurement.
• Lead in the development of and adherence to proper financial management tools and processes; month-end processes; and full grants cycle management covering due diligence, proposal development, compliance, management and reporting.
• Support the local staff in their confidence in using finance systems.
• Lead in aspects of the financial management and reporting – including annual budget preparation, monthly management accounts, BVA analysis and reporting; and monthly accounts close.
• Coach the finance team and other staff members as required.

Requirements

• Qualified accountant with a strong technical accounting background – an understanding of controls, processes and financial management.
• Knowledge of institutional donors, including the UK, European and US governments, and UN agencies, is desirable but not essential.
• Experience of fund accounting, and understanding of restricted and unrestricted accounting within an international charity.
• Strong interpersonal skills; experienced in leading change, and working with a range of staff and characters.
• Strong systems skills.
• Patient and adaptable, resilient a self-starter, capable of working independently and prioritising a varied workload.

Their current primary focus is a project funded by a consortium, who are also supporting the organisation through the establishment of financial, operational, and administrative systems.

As part of this work, they are seeking the support of an AfID volunteer to undertake the following tasks:

• Assist with the development of a financial manual that outlines the process for key financial activities including the financial system, financial reporting structure, cash management, and internal controls.
• Assist with the development of a travel policy, as a key priority.
• If time allows, provide recommendations of appropriate accounting packages that will encompass the financial reporting needs from other countries and to donors.

They are looking for a volunteer with good experience of setting up financial systems, able to provide support and guidance to the organisations Financial Director for 2 to 4 hours a week over a 2 to 3 month period.

You will be the second AfID volunteer to visit this partner, and your role will be firstly to review how they have been getting on since the last placement. The organisation has changed considerably since Covid, moving many courses online, so their spreadsheets and accounting tools need to be reviewed to ensure they are still relevant and fit for purpose.

This assignment will provide all round support, helping their Director think through their requirements and needs. They currently use Odoo, however, only to record sales, and it might be worth extending its use to cover accounting too. They do have project and organisational budgets, and these will need to be reviewed. They would also be keen on receiving support in developing an annual report, donor reports, and any other similar materials.

The placement will take you back to basics, however, there is plenty of things to be done to support them as as they consider how the organisation grows and rebuilds its social programmes.

Our partner is providing essential audit services to a number of large institutions around the world, this specialist team works closely with global clients such as The United Nations & The World Bank – delivering and managing international development grant-funded programmes. This long established, diverse and multi-lingual team are global leaders in this field.

You’ll be someone who is both comfortable working proactively and managing your own tasks, as well as confident collaborating with others and communicating regularly with senior managers, directors, and partners to help businesses effectively. You’ll be encouraged to identify and draw attention to opportunities for enhancing our delivery and providing additional services to organisations we work with.

Our team works closely with global institutions such as UN agencies, the European Commission, Foundations and other Development Agencies, particularly those involved in international development. The team provides assurance services, including financial and systems audits, certifications, internal control assessments, technical assistance, and consultancy services to international institutions

This role is at the forefront of the work of our department. As an Audit Senior, you will lead meetings with institutions and beneficiaries, coordinate and lead audit teams carrying out our fieldwork and write audit reports. You will play a vital role in representing the organisation in person leveraging your language capabilities before multiple stakeholders which can include multiple international development agencies and partners.

You'll be required to travel internationally (up to 40%), dependent on the requirements of the assignments. Perform remote audits managing teams both on-site and virtually. You'll acquire and in depth understanding of the development sector and the activities of the international donors. This role requires fluency in both English and French. In this role you'll:

• Prepare a tailored plan for all assignments based on a good understanding of the terms of reference and the applicable contractual conditions
• Lead opening meetings with clients and auditees and present the audit findings clearly and credibly at closing meetings
• Lead assignment fieldwork teams, including locally based staff, on overseas assignments, or working alone
• Identify issues and areas of non-compliance on an assignment and write them up as findings in a detailed, precise and clear way in the assignment report
• Lead larger country wide teams, acting as the client focal point
• Deliver client work to tight deadlines and manage time effectively

You will be someone with:

• A professional accountancy qualification (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)
• A genuine interest in international development and a love of travel
• Excellent spoken and written communication in English and French is a minimum criteria
• An ability to liaise with internal and external stakeholders in a professional, constructive and respectful manner
• Have a proven track record in audit and assurance work

Financial management is currently managed by their fiscal sponsor, a US 501c3 non-profit, who have a dedicated finance and accounting team and strong processes. The organisation is now looking to develop their own internal organisational approach to internal budget management and allocation, and a stronger understanding of their own finances.

They are therefore seeking the support of a volunteer to assist with the following tasks:

• Review current processes and financial controls to identify any areas for improvement. 
• Identification of overheads and unrestricted funding required, and support in setting up templates to monitor how their existing grants/revenue streams and funding pipeline covers their portfolio and unrestricted costs. 
• Guidance on how to set-up and manage internal budget allocation, and support in the development of budget templates. 
• Develop guidance and standardised templates on development of budgets for grant proposals. 
• Review quarterly forecasting and grant reporting templates and provide advice on any potential improvements. 
• Coaching senior management staff in using financial information.

They are seeking a volunteer able to provide support for 4 hours a week over a 2 month period, primarily working with a team member in the UK.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate the logistics of events, in-person programme activities and meetings.
• Responsible for compiling itineraries and travel-related arrangements.
• Working with the finance and programmes team to ensure that logistics align with donor requirements, lead on keeping proper records and documentation as per donor requirements, and working with vendors and third parties on payments.
• Lead on the smooth running of the office

Requirements

• Astute, detail-oriented individual with a deep interest in international development.
• Strong communication and relationship building skills – able to work effectively with different members of the team, and also external stakeholders.
• Able to work flexibly, prioritise a varied and changing workload, take initiative and meet tight deadlines.
• Competent IT user
• Excellent spoken and written English, and one other language of French, Spanish or Arabic

This role is open to candidates with the right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship. The role offers hybrid working with the candidate expected to be in the office 1-2 days/week in London.

They are seeking a new Director and Chair for their Finance & Risk Committee, who will play a key and central role on the Board scrutinising and supporting the Finance team with the organisations financial management and strategy. You will initially support the current Chair of the FRC, and assume their role when they leave the Board in June 2025.

The role requires a qualified finance professional, with skills and experience in accountancy, audit and strategic financial management. Previous board level experience is not necessarily required, but experience of working on sustainability projects and preferably of working internationally in a complex context would be highly valued.

Board meetings take place four times a year. Typically two of these will be two-day in-person meetings in London, and two will be half day meetings online. The Finance & Risk Committee typically meets quarterly.

Your role, as the third AfID volunteer, will be to focus on strengthening the Executive Director’s financial oversight and analysis as they grow as an organisation. She has self-taught and has advanced her management skills but would benefit from the support of an experienced financial professional to guide her and mentor her in the following areas:

• Financial oversight skills and understanding of internal control mechanisms. You will understand the Executive Director’s current challenges with financial oversight and identify opportunities for improvement.
• You will identify with the Executive Director the type of financial metrics and information that she needs to have for different stakeholders (board members, donors, partners) and brainstorm different ways that this information could be presented.
• Finance & accounting terminology, methods, and systems; for example in the questions asked by donors/partners in grant applications & reports. 
• Develop metrics to track efficiency in the context of making a case on the “value for money” of its comprehensive sexuality education program.

Scope of the audit

• Assess accuracy and integrity of financial records, compliance with local and international accounting standards, and effectiveness of financial controls.
• Evaluate procurement process, and compliance to organisational and donor policies.
• Evaluate compliance to donor requirements.

Requirements

• Qualified internal auditor, with experience undertaking internal audits and special investigations for international charities.
• Experience in working in Central & West Africa, and demonstrable knowledge and understanding of cultural norms and working practices in the countries of interest for the audit.
• Bi-lingual – fluent French & English speaker
• Immediate availability is desirable.

They are seeking the support of a volunteer to help them to establish initial accounting workflows, tools, and processes that will enable them to manage their next stage of growth.

Your role will be to evaluate current processes (invoicing, filing receipts, tracking expenses etc.) and establish an improved system for accounting, compliant with UK requirements. They would particularly welcome any recommendations on mechanisms or templates to put in place for managing ongoing accounting, and to take advantage of any opportunities for automation and efficient workflow.

If time allows, they would also value support in migrating historical financial data into the new system (currently held in Xero, Excel and Google sheets). Separately, they are also seeking advice on their VAT requirements and obligations.

The volunteer will be comfortable providing hands on practical support, able to make a commitment of providing 15 hours of support over a 2-3 month period.

Past AfID volunteers have undertaken an assessment of their accounting systems, processes and controls, helped them move from a manual accounting system to QuickBooks, and coached the accountant on day-to-day accounting as well as financial management.

They have been through a lot of changes in the finance function over the last year. The Finance Coordinator that AfID volunteers worked with left over a year ago and since then they have had 2 Finance Coordinators who also left. They now have a new Finance Coordinator and a new Finance Officer that need training and mentoring. 

Your role will be threefold and include: 

• Reviewing the financial policy and procedures to identify any gaps in practice and in knowledge and provide training on these areas in particular (but not exclusive): 
  • Ensuring their monthly budget vs expenditure is done properly and, if not, identify why and provide support.
  • Reviewing the financial reporting mechanism. The Board required financial reporting every 3 months while some donors require it every quarter or every 6 months. You will review what is in place, the requirements and provide support to the FC and FO to improve reporting and strengthen their capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead in the preparation of the year-end statutory accounts, including the trial balance.
• Lead in the preparation of the annual audit, and in coordinating project audits; this includes finalising audit schedules, leading on audit queries, and in the implementation of recommendations.
• Oversight of financial accounting, including on month-end and year-end processes, balance sheet reconciliations, quarterly VAT submissions and ensuring integrity of CoA.
• Line management of staff.

Requirements

• Qualified accountant, with experience of month-end processes, balance sheet reconciliations, year-end accounts preparation and audit preparation within an international charity with multiple entities.
• Experience of tax and VAT within a charity.
• Strong systems skills, specifically of SUN systems and MSExcel.
• Experience of line management.
• Strong communication (written and oral), able to work with finance and non-finance staff alike.

Role particulars

This is an 8 month fixed-term contract, and ideally they are seeking someone to start as soon as possible. They are open to considering someone able to work 4 days/week. This role is open to candidates with the right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship. The organisation offers hybrid working, with the candidate expected to be in the office in London at least one day/week.

With the growth of the organisation over the years, the finance function has also grown organically, but solutions have often been implemented reactively rather than strategically.

With the continued growth of the organisation, it has become clear that they need to strengthen their finance processes further to ensure that they can fully leverage the capabilities of their Xero based system and keep pace with the demands of their expansion.

They are therefore seeking the support of an AfID volunteer to work with the finance team to identify gaps in its current operational processes (including accounting, reporting and analysis), before developing and implementing improvement strategies, with a particular focus on streamlining and optimising their reporting processes, and refining their payments process.

They are looking for a volunteer, familiar with Xero and with good process improvement experience, able to commit to providing 2-4 hours of support a week over a 3-4 month period.

The organisation conducted a comprehensive research trial on the individual and combined impact of sanitary pads and health education across 140 schools in Kilifi County. The results highlighted many shortcomings. They now run interventions in 5 schools, reaching 3600 students with a health education curriculum and they offer tailored menstrual, sexual and reproductive health and rights education to enhance the voice and agency of adolescent girls. 
 
They want to also enact social change through commercial markets, providing high quality but low cost sanitary products which promote and signpost to clear educational messages, phone-based counselling and text-based health information. They sell in urban market and partner with NGOs to reach beneficiaries in rural locations.

There are two volunteer roles, one centred around revalidating their standard operating procedures and upskilling senior leadership in financial oversight and the second one focused on audit preparation.

Our partner is providing essential audit services to a number of large institutions around the world, this specialist team works closely with global clients such as The United Nations & The World Bank – delivering and managing international development grant-funded programmes. This long established, diverse and multi-lingual team are global leaders in this field.

You’ll be someone who is both comfortable working proactively and managing your own tasks, as well as confident collaborating with others and communicating regularly with senior managers, directors, and partners to help businesses effectively. You’ll be encouraged to identify and draw attention to opportunities for enhancing our delivery and providing additional services to organisations we work with.

Our team works closely with global institutions such as UN agencies, the European Commission, Foundations and other Development Agencies, particularly those involved in international development. The team provides assurance services, including financial and systems audits, certifications, internal control assessments, technical assistance, and consultancy services to international institutions

This role is at the forefront of the work of our department. As an Audit Senior, you will lead meetings with institutions and beneficiaries, coordinate and lead audit teams carrying out our fieldwork and write audit reports. You will play a vital role in representing the organisation in person leveraging your language capabilities before multiple stakeholders which can include multiple international development agencies and partners.

You'll be required to travel internationally (up to 40%), dependent on the requirements of the assignments. Perform remote audits managing teams both on-site and virtually. You'll acquire and in depth understanding of the development sector and the activities of the international donors. This role requires fluency in both English and Spanish. In this role you'll:

• Prepare a tailored plan for all assignments based on a good understanding of the terms of reference and the applicable contractual conditions
• Lead opening meetings with clients and auditees and present the audit findings clearly and credibly at closing meetings
• Lead assignment fieldwork teams, including locally based staff, on overseas assignments, or working alone
• Identify issues and areas of non-compliance on an assignment and write them up as findings in a detailed, precise and clear way in the assignment report
• Lead larger country wide teams, acting as the client focal point
• Deliver client work to tight deadlines and manage time effectively

You will be someone with:

• A professional accountancy qualification (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)
• A genuine interest in international development and a love of travel
• Excellent spoken and written communication in English and Spanish is a minimum criteria
• An ability to liaise with internal and external stakeholders in a professional, constructive and respectful manner
• Have a proven track record in audit and assurance work

They are seeking a new Treasurer to lead the Board in fulfilling its responsibility to protect the financial integrity of the organisation, and to provide support and guidance on financial matters to the Chief Executive and their team. 

The role requires proven experience in financial planning, management and reporting and the ability to plan, prepare and chair effective meetings of the Finance Committee. Successful candidates should have some experience of the voluntary and/or charity sector, and have a passion for promoting better outcomes in health and social care for all.

Board members are asked to commit between eight and twelve hours each month to Board matters, including travelling to different locations within Buckinghamshire for quarterly Board meetings.

We had a volunteer confirmed to support them in implementing Xero in 2020. Unfortunately, with that placement unable to proceed due to COVID-19, we provided them with remote volunteer support, helping them make the most out of Excel whilst their migration to Xero was on hold.

They have now successfully implemented Xero, and have proper systems in place. However, their Finance Manager in Zanzibar requires further support and training in it's use. They have spent time and resources to offer her remote coaching; but have realised that her challenges are not easily conveyed over Zoom sessions, and therefore some in person coaching for her is required.

Additionally, the Xero system was designed with the needs of the UK office in mind, whereas 80% of the transactions are undertaken in Zanzibar. As such, they require support in addressing the amount of time spent extracting data and then creating reports on Excel. Separately, payroll and taxes in Zanzibar are extremely complicated, and manipulating Xero to account for these, is something they require support with.

They are seeking a Trustee to chair their finance sub-committee, with experience in a senior finance role who is able to help them develop their approach to finance and support them in the move towards cloud-based accounting.

Having a background as a qualified accountant would be beneficial, as would charity sector experience, preferably in international development, as well as sharing the Christian values of the organisation.

Trustees are asked to attend 4 full day Board meetings annually, alternating between online and in-person, with the finance sub-committee meeting an additional 4-5 times per year, usually online for around an hour.

You will be the third AfID volunteer working with this partner and the focus of this placement will be around supporting them in ironing out some specific issues as they look to expand.

They are now selling more products on credit and are also in a position to borrow money. They want to understand what their internal working capital requirements are, and how best these might be met.

As part of this, they want to improve their controls in managing working capital to shop owners. At present, for example, to encourage businesses to use their app and to pay cash on delivery, they are offering incentives (better pricing on the products). However, they do not feel they have enough internal controls to enforce these.

This role requires a volunteer that is comfortable working in a busy environment and more than 50% of the time independently, as the team members are frequently travelling inside India.

They are seeking a Treasurer to oversee the financial matters of the charity in line with good practice and in accordance with legal requirements, and report to the Board of Trustees at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation. The Treasurer will ensure that effective financial measures, controls, and procedures are in place, and are appropriate for the charity.

The postholder will have successful experience of operating within a board in a charitable, public sector or commercial organisation, and a commitment to the organisation and their charitable objectives.

The Board meets 6 times per year, with the Finance Committee meeting a further 6 times annually, either in-person in Luton or online.

You will be the third AfID volunteer on placement with this partner. Given that it will have been just under three years since the last placement, and in light of their growth, the first task would be to review their controls and processes; this is especially pertinent in light of their planned further expansion.

They have been putting together a 5-year budget in place for their strategic plan, but require support in finalising this. They also have a new Finance Manager in post, and as such it would be useful to see how comfortable she has been using the existing budgeting and cashflow forecasting templates, and to see if these are relevant in light of their plans to expand.

This has the potential to be a hugely rewarding assignment, giving you the opportunity to make your mark on the organisation as it embarks on an exciting future.

Responsibilities

• Lead on establishing a sound control environment, financial processes and systems, ensuring that these align with the organisational as well local regulations.
• Provide financial leadership and strategic advisory support to the country offices and regional team.
• Lead of preparing the individual country budgets, budget monitoring tools, analysis and reports.
• Lead on the full grants cycle management – from due diligence and budget proposal development, to compliance & reporting.
• Lead on capacity building of the finance staff, on all aspects of finance and grants financial management.
• Lead on operations covering procurement, HR & logistics.

Requirements

• Qualified accountant with experience in leading country finance functions of an international charity, and working in a regional capacity.
• Experience in building the controls, processes and systems of young, growing country offices with different budgets, resources and staff capacity.
• Experience in operations within international organisations working in complex, fragile states – covering procurement and logistics.
• Strong demonstrable experience and knowledge of institutional donors, including the UK, European and US governments, and UN agencies.
• Strong interpersonal skills, managerial and influential skills.
• Strong communication skills – written (report writing) and oral.
• Bilingual – English and French speaker.

This post will be based in the DRC, travelling to other countries in the region as required.

They have made significant progress on the back of two short-term in-person AfID placements, and now have QuickBooks set up. The new system is working well but they require some support in refining and improving it, and advice on how to maximise its features.

Specifically, they are looking for support in the following areas:

• Designing a budget tracker for each project ensuring that all expenses are reported in the correct budget line.
• Reporting project finance, ensuring that there is compliance with donor guidelines.
• Management of multiple donor funded projects.
• Measuring and utilising exchange gains from donor funded projects.
• Forecasting and budgeting for financial decision-making.
• Developing budget monitoring, cash flow forecasting and cash management tools.
• Designing and preparing a budget monitoring report to compare a project budget with actual performance.
• Creating a variance analysis table to identify significant variances and follow-up actions.
• Streamlining of chart of accounts for use in budgeting and budget management.
• Ensuring the organisational financial reporting meets the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS).
• Advising on reserves and investment

They are seeking a volunteer able to commit to providing 2-4 hours support a week for a 2-3 month period. There is plenty to look at, which may not all be able to be covered within this time commitment, and the partner is aware that a further prioritisation exercise will need to take place once a suitable volunteer has been identified.

Women can access one to one counselling and attend workshops on topics such as reproductive and sexual health, maternal care, hygiene and nutrition, financial and business management, parenting skills and challenging gender stereotypes.

They have recently received a large new grant representing quite a significant increase, both in terms of their budget as well as the workload of the Finance Manager.

The key scope of this role will be around grants management. This will include reviewing and reconfiguring their chart of accounts, to help streamline the workload for the finance team in light of their growth and increased budget. You will help establish a proper process for core costs across the different grants, and support in reviewing and improving their donor reporting.

At the heart of the team's work is Aid Oversight: improving the ways in which developing country government’s mange aid spending, track, and monitor use of donor funds to ensure that projects are properly delivered. Other areas include anti-corruption, fiduciary risk, and capacity building. 

This role suits someone looking for: progressive responsibility in international development project management; experience in writing high-quality, innovative proposals for agencies such as DFID, the Foreign Office, and the World Bank; and exposure to financial management and internal control reviews

The Consultant will perform a key role in supporting the management of existing projects, including projects in Asia and Africa, and significant travel to these and other locations.

You will also work with us in the identification and development of relevant prospects and technical and financial proposals. Our intention is that you will progress to fully managing several of our projects in terms of budgetary control and financial reporting, recruitment and staffing, client management, strategic oversight, and technical quality assurance, as well as continuing to play an important role in business development and bidding.

Over time, we will support you to develop expertise on the following:
• Project management and oversight;
• Managing complex delivery tasks and project risks;
• Leading technical and financial proposals;
• Understanding local delivery contexts and political economies;

We are looking for someone who is enthusiastic, innovative, energetic, committed to excellence in all their work, and wants to develop or kick-start a career in international development consulting. You may be a newly qualified accountant or with a number of years’ experience post qualification.

We are looking for someone who is keen to take ownership of projects and will seek to maximise their projects’ impact in every way.

• A degree in a relevant field from an internationally recognised university or alternatively a professional accountancy qualification;
• Outstanding English communication skills, both written and oral (essential) 
• Excellent writing skills and the ability to produce persuasive, succinct inputs to proposals
• Excellent inter-personal skills and team-work;
• Good numerical ability with a focus on financial awareness and ability;
• Ability to research and put together information needed for proposals.

Required Experience
• Experience in either external audit or internal audit/controls;
• Demonstrable knowledge of and interest in the world of international development or consultancy sector;
• Demonstrated experience of using initiative, client-orientation, delivery to timelines, and working in complex and pressured contexts 
• Experience of working in developing countries.

They are seeking a Treasurer to provide financial support and guidance for a resurgent NGO. The Treasurer has responsibility for overseeing maintenance of the accounts, providing quarterly management accounts and annual accounts. The postholder will manage the limited number of payments and also provide financial support to the Board of Trustees, including contributing to funding proposals.

The ideal candidate will have knowledge of UK charity accounting and filing requirements, as well as an interest in global issues and a desire to strengthen the effectiveness of global governance.

The estimated time commitment required for the role is 1-5 hours per month.

They have appointed one of their students, who has graduated from school but not gone to university, with an interest in accounting to work with them. She is learning how to input expenses and, more recently, donations into their Quickbooks system. It is hoped that the accountant who has been undertaking these tasks over the last 4 years, will be able to take over responsibilities from the Director in reviewing the accounts, and doing the banking. Both would benefit from coaching.

During this period of transition, there have been many errors made, and they are often not sure what the errors are, and when they do find them, they are not always sure how to correct them. Therefore, they require someone to review their accounts on QuickBooks, identifying errors and helping correct these.

In light of increased transactions, they also require a review of their chart of accounts, to ensure everything is coded properly, as well as an update to their QuickBooks manual.

The Board wants to strengthen its financial oversight of their operations, through the appointment of a finance professional based in the USA, with a keen interest in eliminating poverty, as Treasurer.

The post holder will provide strategic oversight and advice in financial matters, including the annual and medium-term budgets, financial administration and controls, financial reporting, the annual audit, and, if possible, fundraising.

The Board meets monthly, for 90 minutes, online.

You will be the second AfID volunteer to visit this partner, and you will primarily be working with the accountant who received training from our previous volunteer. He is using Quickbooks confidently, albeit only as a bookkeeping tool, and your first task will be to review its use and progress since the previous placement.

They would also like to receive support in a number of additional areas:

• Creating a simple bookkeeping process for the restaurant; they do not have the funds to install an electronic till, and therefore all transactions in the restaurant and bar are recorded by hand. They would like to review how this is being done, and suggest how it might be improved to reduce errors.

• Assistance with putting together an annual budget. They currently do not have an organisational budget, and putting one together either on Excel or QuickBooks (depending on the skill set) will help them get better visibility on how much it costs to run the organisation.

• Assistance in creating monthly income & expenditure reports for individual projects, the bar, restaurant & conference centre, and the organisation overall. As part of this, they would benefit from a review of any grants compliance and reporting requirements, to see that they are meeting this.

Responsibilities

• Financial oversight of the programme – this includes ensuring that there is a strong control environment across the HQ and regional offices, that policies and guidelines are properly understood and implemented, properly manage and account for income, and monitor banking, cash and cash advances and expenditure.
• Prepare and submit the annual accounts & statutory returns, ensuring that these are compliant with local laws and requirements.
• Financial management – creation and review of the organisational budget, oversee the monthly close and reconciliations, and prepare financial & KPI reports, and cashflow management.
• Grants compliance, management and reporting – supporting in budget creation for new grants proposals, monitoring expenditure versus grants income, ensuring that all project finance activities are compliant with grants requirements, providing financial oversight to sub-grantees, and preparing donor/grants reports.
• Undertaking due diligence on, and overseeing compliance and reporting from sub-grantees, supporting them with capacity building as required..
• Lead in the preparation of donor and other local audits, ensuring that the organisation is tax & legally compliant to the regulations in PNG.
• Assess and mitigate financial risks, safeguard the organisational asset.
• Coaching and building confidence and capacity of the local finance team.

Requirements

• A bachelors degree in accounting or finance; additionally an MBA or an accounting qualification is strongly preferred.
• Senior finance professional with at least five years of experience of leading the country finance function of a charity that is complex, both in terms of projects, but also portfolio of funding. Previous experience of working in a complex environment such as PNG is desirable.
• Willing to be hands on, alongside offering strategic advisory support.
• Strong technical accounting, financial management, reporting and grants compliance, management and reporting experience.
• Significant experience in the compliance and management of grants from institutional donors, including the US and European governments.
• Experience of developing a team, and building capacity of finance staff and staff in partner/sub-grantee organisations.
• Effective communicator.

After almost nine years, their current Treasurer is coming to the end of their term in office. They are seeking a replacement, who will Chair the quarterly Finance sub-committee meetings and report back on the work and recommendations of the committee in full Board meetings.

They are seeking someone with a proven ability to communicate and explain financial information to the Board and other stakeholders, ideally with experience and knowledge of the not for profit sector, particularly international development.

There are four Board meetings (one full day) and four Finance Committee meetings a year. Board meetings are held in London, with optional virtual attendance. Most committee meetings take place virtually.

Responsibilities

• Travelling internationally to a wide range of locations, on a regular basis, conducting audits or special assignments; working with, and supporting NGOs, public sector organisations & institutional donors such as the United Nations.
• Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of public sector audit issues and techniques and provide guidance to other team members based on previous experience;
• Demonstrate a detailed understanding of public sector structures and the legal and contractual frameworks in which the assignments are performed and provide guidance to other team members based on previous experience;
• Demonstrate a detailed understanding of International Standards on Auditing (ISAs) and provide guidance to other team members based on previous experience;
• Be involved in the assignment process from planning to finalisation;
• Prepare a tailored plan for large or complex assignments based on an understanding of the terms of reference;
• Lead assignment fieldwork teams including locally based staff for large or complex assignments;
• Demonstrate the ability to identify the findings on an assignment and write them up in a detailed, precise and clear way in the assignment report;
• Lead opening meetings and present the audit findings at closing meetings;
• Conduct assignments in a sceptical but constructive manner;
• Draft a report for each assignment on a timely basis;
• Be responsible for completing the audit programme and audit file;
• Be aware of assignment deadlines and work with the team to ensure deadlines are met;
• Monitor the time spent on assignments against budget and discuss with the Manager if budget overruns are anticipated;
• Prepare proposals for specific assignments within a framework contract
• Contribute to drafting tenders;
• Identify potential opportunities for obtaining new work. Take action to follow up such opportunities with a manager/partner;
• Develop internal contacts and demonstrate an awareness of the services offered by other departments in the firm;

Internal development 

• Provide on the job training and guidance to more junior team members throughout the assignment process;
• Contribute to office-based training sessions including development of training material;
• Conduct induction training for new staff members;
• Do job appraisals for more junior team members;
• Check that the staff planner is kept up to date for each assignment;

Please note, if you are not a fluent Spanishspeaker similar opportunities may be available - so please apply. 

For more details on the role and organisation please apply. 

Responsibilities

• Travelling internationally to a wide range of locations, on a regular basis, conducting audits or special assignments; working with, and supporting NGOs, public sector organisations & institutional donors such as the United Nations.
• Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of public sector audit issues and techniques and provide guidance to other team members based on previous experience;
• Demonstrate a detailed understanding of public sector structures and the legal and contractual frameworks in which the assignments are performed and provide guidance to other team members based on previous experience;
• Demonstrate a detailed understanding of International Standards on Auditing (ISAs) and provide guidance to other team members based on previous experience;
• Be involved in the assignment process from planning to finalisation;
• Prepare a tailored plan for large or complex assignments based on an understanding of the terms of reference;
• Lead assignment fieldwork teams including locally based staff for large or complex assignments;
• Demonstrate the ability to identify the findings on an assignment and write them up in a detailed, precise and clear way in the assignment report;
• Lead opening meetings and present the audit findings at closing meetings;
• Conduct assignments in a sceptical but constructive manner;
• Draft a report for each assignment on a timely basis;
• Be responsible for completing the audit programme and audit file;
• Be aware of assignment deadlines and work with the team to ensure deadlines are met;
• Monitor the time spent on assignments against budget and discuss with the Manager if budget overruns are anticipated;
• Prepare proposals for specific assignments within a framework contract
• Contribute to drafting tenders;
• Identify potential opportunities for obtaining new work. Take action to follow up such opportunities with a manager/partner;
• Develop internal contacts and demonstrate an awareness of the services offered by other departments in the firm;

Internal development 

• Provide on the job training and guidance to more junior team members throughout the assignment process;
• Contribute to office-based training sessions including development of training material;
• Conduct induction training for new staff members;
• Do job appraisals for more junior team members;
• Check that the staff planner is kept up to date for each assignment;

Please note, if you are not a fluent Spanishspeaker similar opportunities may be available - so please apply. 

For more details on the role and organisation please apply. 

Responsibilities

• Review and undertake an assessment of their controls, processes and financial management tools, making recommendations on strengthening and streamlining these.
• Identifying targeted capacity building needs for their finance and admin team, developing and implementing a capacity building programme aimed at building a robust finance function.
• Develop a business plan to evaluate all the different opportunities and instruments to bring additional income, assessing which one is the most feasible for the partner, and advising on how this is implemented.

Requirements

• Qualified, experienced charity finance professional, specifically with a background in audit and in developing and strengthening controls and processes, and strengthening financial mangement after a period of significant change and restructure.
• Understanding of charity income sources and fund accounting, and experience of developing and implementing a business plan.
• Strong business partnering, negotiating and influencing skills, able to build trust with local staff and external stakeholders, including donors, alike.
• Experience of working in Latin America, and bilingual (fluent Spanish and English speaker)

They anticipate an in-person placement of 8-12 weeks in Asuncion, with the consultant offering ad hoc remote support to continue with the advisory and capacity strengthening work.

You’ll be someone who is both comfortable working proactively and managing your own tasks, as well as confident collaborating with others and communicating regularly with senior managers, directors, and business partners to help businesses effectively. You’ll be encouraged to identify and draw attention to opportunities for enhancing delivery and providing additional services to stakeholder organisations. This team within the Advisory group work closely with global institutions such as UN agencies, the European Commission, Foundations and other Development Agencies, particularly those involved in international development. This team of sector experts provide assurance services, including financial and systems audits, certifications, internal control assessments, technical assistance, and consultancy services to international institutions.

You’ll support the Quality & Risk function ensure operational effectiveness embedding and monitoring of Quality & Risk principles and procedures within contract teams across the department. You’ll work closely with Partners and leadership on quality reviews of client assignments, analysing root causes of quality weaknesses and support continuous improvement. You’ll help to review policies and procedures to make sure they are compliant and fit for purpose.

Experience

• Experience in the audit / assurance sector
• A professional accountancy qualification (ACA/ACCA/DEC/CIMA or equivalent);
• Knowledge of professional standards applicable to our work (e.g. ISQM 1, ISRS 4400, ISAs, ISAE 3000)
• No formal risk management knowledge is required, although awareness, understanding or an interest in this area and the impact from the regulatory environment will be beneficial.
• Ability to research, analyse, interpret, apply good judgement and communicate effectively to provide the support of the Quality & Risk processes of the firm
• Ability to think innovatively and creatively to identify ways to improve quality
• Professional level of communication – both verbal and written

Overview

This is a new role with primary responsibility to support IIDA’s Quality & Risk function in the provision of risk management, helping client teams to understand and adhere to the firm’s policies and procedures in carrying out their roles to provide quality audit and assurance services to the donor sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Supporting the IIDA Quality & Risk function ensure operational effectiveness will involve:
• Supporting the embedding and monitoring of Quality & Risk principles and procedures within contract teams across IIDA
• Providing support in responding to IIDA risk management, quality and compliance queries from IIDA partners and staff
• Supporting on quality reviews of client assignments, analysing root causes of quality weaknesses and support implementation of improvements
• Participating in the review of IIDA’s policies and procedures and assisting in drafting policies and guidance
• Coordinating and contributing to the risk communications for IIDA, including email updates, seminars, webinars and intranet pages
• Participating in bi-monthly IIDA Technical Support Group meetings
• Liaising with the wider Quality and Risk (‘Q&R’) community, the central Q&R team and the Advisory Stream Q&R Working Group
• Assisting with ad hoc Q&R projects where required.

Qualifications and skills

Essential:

• Experience in the audit / assurance sector
• An appreciation of the challenges and complexity of the donor sector
• Ability to research, analyse, interpret, apply good judgement and communicate effectively to provide the support of the Quality & Risk processes of the firm
• Ability to think innovatively and creatively to identify ways to improve quality
• Attention to detail
• IT skills (good knowledge of MS Office and Internet)
• Professional level of communication – both verbal and written
• Good time management, organisation skills and the ability to prioritise
• Proven track record of working in professional services
• A professional accountancy qualification (ACA/ACCA/DEC/CIMA or equivalent);
• Knowledge of professional standards applicable to our work (e.g. ISQM 1, ISRS 4400, ISAs, ISAE 3000)

Desirable:

• No formal risk management knowledge is required, although awareness, understanding or an interest in this area and the impact from the regulatory environment will be beneficial.
• Experience in the international development sector
• Experience of interaction with internal and external quality management reviews

The Treasurer will oversee the financial matters of the charity in line with good practice and legal requirements, and report to the Board of Trustees at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation. They will ensure that effective financial management systems, controls and procedures are in place, and are appropriate for the charity's needs.

The successful candidate will have experience of operating within a board in a charitable, public sector or commercial organisation, as well as a commitment to feminist principles and a passion for ending violence against women.

The board meets 5 times per year, and the finance sub-committee has an additional 4 meetings annually.

They are seeking a new Treasurer to join their existing board in leading the organisation through their next exciting period of change. While they are seeking someone with knowledge of UK charity finance and legal requirements, they are particularly interested to hear from candidates from the Global South, wherever their current location.

The Treasurer will monitor the financial administration of the charity and report to the board of trustees at regular intervals on its state of financial health, in line with best practice, and in compliance with legal requirements. 

The Treasurer role will require approximately 10-12 days per annum, including three Board meetings, two of which are usually virtual, and occasional virtual meetings with the Executive Director, Finance Manager, and Auditor. In addition, the Treasurer will chair the Finance and Audit sub-committee.

In 2022 they implemented the ERP software Odoo for their operations in Vietnam. They currently use it to monitor sales, customers and for their accounting (alongside a separate local system to meet regulatory requirements). They are now looking for volunteer support to help them extend their use of this tool to include production, inventory management, purchases and HR.

The volunteer will help the team to understand the tool and its functionality; provide their expert opinion on the best way to implement its additional functionality; and help set up clear processes for the team to utilise these tools.

The assignment does require a volunteer with good knowledge of Odoo and ideally with experience of implementing it in a previous organisation.

They are seeking a Treasurer to take on a hands-on role in the monitoring and administration of the organisation's finances.

The role will include monitoring their online bank accounts, maintaining their income and expenditure spreadsheet, submitting an income and expenditure report to Trustees ahead of meetings, and assisting the Trustees with the preparation of an annual budget and the financial report to the Charity Commission.

The ideal candidate will be a competent Excel user with experience of preparing accounts. The time commitment required for the role is approximately 1 hour per week, with the Trustees meeting 3 times a year.

They are looking to further expand the range of Trustee skills that they can draw upon, to help lead them through an exciting stage of their development, and are particularly keen on bringing a Trustee onto the Board with knowledge or experience in Finance – as one of the key areas of focus for good governance.

Trustees are expected to prepare for and attend up to six Board meetings a year, plus the AGM. Trustees also need to be available to contribute advice and support on an ad hoc basis as required, and get involved in committee meetings, focusing on People, Audit & Risk, Finance, and Charitable Impact.

They are seeking a Treasurer to help them to continue their growth from a small community start-up into a high-impact, well-renowned, and sustainable international organisation by overseeing their financial management.

With a finance background, you will be responsible for the oversight of their governance, providing strategic support related to financial management, and overseeing robust financial processes for continued growth. Individuals are sought who have a strong empathy with their work and vision, and share their values and commitment to social and racial justice.

The Board meets online every quarter for 2 hours and they also hold one annual away day. You will also join the Finance and Risk committee which also meets every quarter for around 2 hours. The total estimated time commitment required for the role is around 2-3 hours per month.

They run a small visitor centre, shop and café on the former Spode Works site. Given its size, comprehensiveness and location on the original site, this collection is unique in the UK as the sole surviving enterprise in industrial ceramics and very likely in the world.

They are looking to bring on board someone, either as a Trustee or Advisor, with the experience and ability to inform business planning, strategic development and financial management.

The post holder will also oversee monthly cash flow and forecasts based on bank statements, sales and expenditure as well as supervising the preparation of annual charity commission return accounts and tax return.

The organisation are very flexible in terms of what the role may look like, dependent on who they appoint, with a minimum time commitment of 6 meetings annually.

The Internal Audit team sits within the Risk Assurance service line and delivers outsourced and co-sourced internal audit services to over 500 internal audit clients. With over 200 specialist internal auditors the team is one of the largest internal audit teams in a UK professional accountancy firm and offers excellent opportunities for progression. The team also works with one of our organisation’s largest clients and it is working with this client where the appointee will initially spend most of their time.

The role will be attached to our International Development Assurance Services team providing a wide range of assurance services including internal audit, grant audit and investigation services to our clients in the UK and internationally. This position is UK based with the opportunity for international travel.

You should be able to demonstrate understanding of either central government or international development though working in the UK government or UN systems. We are seeking IIA/CIA or ACCA, ACA, qualified people. Experience in working with unique organisations or organisations with unique operations, and in government policy areas is an advantage but not essential. We don’t expect you to know everything, but you should be enthusiastic, have the adaptability to grasp concepts quickly, evidence your work, project confidence and professionalism to the client and work closely with all grades and cultures in an open supportive team environment.

About the job

You will support the partners and senior managers in the day to day management and delivery of various assurance assignments to our clients.

a) Staff Management

• You will have responsibility for developing more junior members of the team, dealing with team welfare and aiding in development plans;

• You will undertake resource and utilisation planning to ensure all client engagements are adequately resourced in a timely manner; and

• You will participate in the firm’s appraisal and development processes

b) Client Delivery

You will oversee delivery of client work as part of the engagement delivery team, being a recognised Manager for client engagements:

• Managing agreed client portfolio delivering assurance programmes, ensuring work is delivered to time, on budget and in line with the Internal Audit Manual;

• Agreeing engagement scopes with clients;

• Overseeing client delivery by team members;

• Undertaking more specialist/bespoke areas of auditing due to experience;
  Completing quality assurance reviews of internal audit files and reports;

• Overseeing the production of Progress Reports, Annual Reports and Audit Strategies prior to Senior Management sign-off;

• Providing effective stakeholder engagement and relationship management; and

• Representing org as required at networking events and industry group meetings, client management and audit committee meetings.

c) Financial

• You will work towards achievement of a client revenue target commensurate with the nature of the role and;

• Take responsibility for managing assurance contracts in line with agreed budgets

d) Business Development

• You will assist senior management and partners in business development initiatives, including writing tender proposals, being involved in tender presentations and visits to target clients

• A strong ambassador for the org brand, you will promote brand awareness and uphold high ethical standards of business that protect the brand, the UK firm, its staff and clients.

Requirements

Tasks may include

• Undertaking financial and document analysis work;

• Systems review and testing compliance with funders requirements

• Compile, analyse facts and circumstances to formulate, substantiate and critique various theories, evidence and conclusions

• Organise and present complex information in a clear and concise manner

• Research and analysis of complex information to provide a structured, logical and intelligible picture of situations and allegations

• Use data analytical tools such as IDEA would be useful

You must be prepared to work for extended periods on secondment to client offices. You will be required to undertake security related training.

Essential

• Audit / Assurance qualification

• Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder management skills

• High standard of written and verbal communication

• Self-starter and team-player

• An adaptable problem solver

• Experience of Central Government, United Nations or similar bodies

• Be prepared to work on secondment to clients

• Hold, or are prepared to undertake, UK Government security clearance

Desirable

• Experience in health, education, procurement, supply chain, governance, anti-corruption, law enforcement or justice is a distinct advantage.

The Assistant Project Administrator has to assist in providing project coordination for the full life cycle of any assignment offered to our clients; from the proposal process, contract management with the client, assignment planning, through to assisting with the report writing, and ultimately billing the client.

Contract Responsibilities

·Assist with proposal and tender submission, including preparing project budgets and schedules, liaising with prospective staff and ensuring all proposals are submitted within the respective deadlines

·Ensure that contracts are as per the issued proposals, that all terms agreed are in best interests of org and support the Managers/Partners in any contract administration required

·Assist with planning the fieldwork of the project, including agreeing dates with the beneficiary, liaising with internal and external staff to ensure they can perform the required service on the agreed dates and that all parties have the necessary information to ensure the project fieldwork runs smoothly

·Assist with  the drawing of contracts

·Monitor and track project progress and on our ‘Control Schedule’ to ensure all stakeholders are kept up to date with any project developments

·Act as the point of contact for all stakeholders (including the client, the beneficiary, internal/external teams and management)

·Assist the manager in any report-writing tasks that may be required & deliver final product to client

·Monitor internal staff working hours & expenses incurred, to ensure project budgets are adhered to

·Check and process external suppliers’ invoices, making sure all days worked and expenses incurred are within the agreed budget, liaising with finance as and when issues arise

·Assist in client billing, ensuring that all bills issued are as per the contractual terms between the firm and the client, that all costs are accounted for, and that bills are paid by the client in a timely manner

·Create and maintain comprehensive project documentation for future use, ensuring that all projects are properly logged and can be used in future proposals/tenders

·General: translate documents, maintain filing system of documentation by client and by assignment, archive files when necessary

Requirements

Essential

·Fluent English in both verbal and written with excellent communication skills

·Second language, French

·Competent using MS Office

·Strong organisational and time management skills with ability to prioritise and multi-task

·Able to meet deadlines

·Good numeracy skills

·Able to work under pressure with accuracy and focus

·Good eye for detail and the ability to follow through tasks

·Able to be a self-starter and work on own initiative

·Able to demonstrate problem solving skills

·Comfortable within a changing and developing environment

·Able to apply relevant skills to new scenarios

Our partner, sector specialists in International Grant Audit are seeking auditors for a critical role; navigating a diverse group of NGOs & donors, such as the UN & The World Bank operating globally (Malawi, Peru, Vietnam, Belgium, Oxford, Sierra Leone, Brazil, Fiji, Cameroon). You'll be London-based travelling post pandemic 25-40% per annum on assignments 1 to 2 weeks in length in small teams.

These unique and extremely rewarding opportunities would suit experienced audit professionals that love diverse travel and supporting inspiring people and worthwhile causes.

Overseas assignments post pandemic could mean travel to one of over 100 countries/ territories. It presents a fantastic opportunity to see the parts of the world you’d never otherwise get to see, work with lovely people and pick up extremely relevant institutional donor and fieldwork experience; vital for anyone seeking a career in the international development NGO sector.

Role overview

Yoiu will complete expenditure audits of a extremely diverse range of projects funded by international donor institutions ranging from emergency aid, to long term development in areas such as agriculture, health or infrastructure, to more commercial projects such as SME development or technical research. Additionally, depending on your seniority you will provide on the job training and guidance to more junior team members throughout the assignment process.

The role will use all your communication, problem-solving and analytical skills and will give you experience in working with major institutions all over the world. An example assignment might see you leading an audit opening meeting with a UN country office on the Monday morning, before heading off to spend a few days with a local NGO or government partners to audit the way they have spent UN funds. You will look at a sample of supporting documents to make sure the expenditure is genuine and for the purposes intended by UN, and review the internal controls of the NGO, making recommendations as to how these might be improved to strengthen the management of the UN resources. At the end of the fieldwork, you will draft at aide-memoire document and discuss your findings with both the UN and its local partner. At the airport, you could even start drafting the formal report as you wait for your flight back to London.

Requirements

Qualified ACA / ACCA or equivalent (Finalists considered)

Experience, insight &/or exposure to grant funding, reporting or audit. 

Diplomacy and cultural sensitivity while working with a hugely diverse range of clients and beneficiaries

A real interest in international development and associated funding structures

'Ideally' fluency in a second language is preferable, especially in French, Spanish, Russian, German, Portuguese, Italian or Mandarin and Arabic.

Excellent communication, report writing and presentation skills

Team worker

Resilience and adaptability

Internationally recognised audit qualification preferable.

​Personal attributes:

At least two-three years of audit experience

Ability to work under pressure; Strong planning, organisational and time management skills

Sound technical and analytical skills, report writing and presentation skills

Passionate about international travel and development and willing to work in international locations for 30% plus of the time (post pandemic)

Candidates for permanent London based roles must have the right to work in the UK.

Built over 30 years, their talented, diverse and multi-lingual team, from graduates to experienced specialists, have established us as global leaders in our field, across a range of disciplines. This team applies their skills, knowledge and ambition to a variety of challenges and has a genuine passion for what they do.

The manager is at the forefront of the work of the department. Travelling internationally, meeting clients, colleagues and auditees. Leading meetings, leading audit teams, supporting junior colleagues, writing and reviewing audit reports, managing key relationships. Representing the team in person in front of multiple stakeholders. Contributing to the success of our clients and to the development of auditees, as well as your colleagues. The role of manager is both challenging and rewarding, and as well as office-based management work, offers travel experiences that very few other roles can match. In the role, depending on whether you are managing or leading fieldwork, you will:

• Prepare/review a tailored plan for all assignments based on a good understanding of the terms of reference and the applicable contractual conditions
• Lead/support opening meetings with clients and auditees and present the audit findings clearly and credibly at closing meetings
• Lead/support assignment fieldwork teams, including locally based staff, on overseas assignments, or work alone
• Demonstrate the ability to identify issues and areas of non-compliance on an assignment and write them up as findings in a detailed, precise and clear way in the assignment report
• Ensure the high quality of our written outputs by carrying our thorough and informed report reviews
• Lead/support larger country wide teams, acting as the client focal point and taking on management tasks
• Be proactive in supporting junior colleagues with their learning and development
• Be a trusted focal point for clients and service providers, offering solutions and support to them as required
• Be able to work to tight deadlines and manage time effectively
• Be prepared to be out of the office on international assignments for up to 30% of the time*

We’re looking for someone with:

• A genuine interest in international development
• A love of international travel, preferably with experience of working or volunteering internationally
• A second language, especially French, Spanish, German, Russian, Arabic, Portuguese or Mandarin
• A professional accountancy qualification (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)
• An ability to communicate in a professional, constructive and respectful manner
• A proven aptitude for both team management and client support
• At least 5 years’ proven track record in audit and assurance work

* Due to the pandemic, the international travel element of the role has been significantly reduced and replaced largely by remote work. An increase in international travel opportunities is expected when the pandemic eases.

Complete international grant expenditure &/or VFM audits for an extremely diverse range of projects (grant recipients) funded by international donor institutions ranging from emergency aid, to long term development in areas such as agriculture, health or infrastructure, to more commercial projects such as SME development or technical research. Assignments are 1-3 weeks in length and based across the European mainland and the developing world. These are offered on an assignment by assignment basis, one to two months in advance. Please note there is no guaranteed period of work within the contract. Contractors can be based outside the UK on the European mainland but must be able to work in the EU. 

Requirements

• Qualified ACA / ACCA or equivalent

• Grant management and audit and reporting experience with international institutions

• Diplomacy and cultural sensitivity while working with a hugely diverse range of clients and beneficiaries

• A real interest in international development and associated funding structures

• Fluency in a second language (not essential)

• Excellent communication, report writing and presentation skills

• Resilience and adaptability

• Internationally recognised audit qualification preferable.

​ Personal attributes:

• At least 5-10 years of audit experience

• Ability to work under pressure; Strong planning, organisational and time management skills

• Sound technical and analytical skills, report writing and presentation skills

• Passionate about international travel and development and willing to work in international locations

About the Role

The International Assurance Services team are a small but committed team delivering to international governments, donors, public sector bodies, charities and INGOs. They also work closely with our public sector internal audit teams delivering work for the UK Government.

They are looking for qualified internal & external auditors to join their team. Ideally Institute of Internal Auditors qualified, the role involves working with our public-sector clients both in the UK and overseas.

Our work is diverse, so you need to be adaptable, proactive and a self-starter, you could be seconded to a UK government department auditing major change programmes or assigned to audit beneficiary data on a cash transfer programme for the ultra-poor in Zambia; supporting an emerging nations National Audit Office undertake their first forensic assignment or working with the United Nations. Rarely are two weeks the same.

We are looking for adaptable people with a ‘can do’ problem solving attitude. You should be prepared to work away from home occasionally in conflict/post conflict environments or in countries where 5-star comfort comes second to life experiences. Full training will be provided. Ideally, we would like a second language, French, Portuguese, Spanish or Arabic. You will be required to undertake security clearance.

To match our continued growth across Africa we are particularly interested in candidates with experience of / interested in long term overseas posting and those with experience delivering training or mentoring. We are also interested in those who joined internal audit later in their careers where their prior experiences would add real benefits to our clients.

Essential

• IIA/ACA qualification

Desirable

• Masters degree
• 5 years post qualified
• Experience of central government public sector
• Fluent in a second language
• Experience of delivering training or mentoring
• Experience working in developing economies
• Experience in the health sector

Our clients include a number of well-known organisations in the sector undertaking a wide range of activities from working to protect endangered species to undertaking scientific research to providing grants & support to social entrepreneurs.

The division is led by partners who have extensive first-hand experience in the not for profit sector. This enables us to understand the challenging environment these organisations face, which is heightened by an increasing demand for services with greatly constrained resources. Our people have a passion for the sector. Many of the team have worked directly in the not for profit sector before returning to practice, and everyone shares a passion for delivering strong social outcomes as well as financial sustainability – we describe ourselves as sector people who happen to be in practice.

You will be responsible for the planning, on-site running and completion of a portfolio of audit assignments to a range of clients in the not for profit sector. This will include providing on-the-job training to more junior members of the team. The team is also one of the largest providers of international grant verification audit work, through which we work with some of the largest internationally-recognised charities and humanitarian organisations. The role will provide the opportunity for involvement in these which can include global travel opportunities.

Specific responsibilities 

• Attend the pre-assignment discussions with the audit team. • Complete the planning sections of the audit file and draft the Audit Planning Report. • Input into our audit risk assessment, test design and budgeting procedures. • Take ownership for the completion of the audit testing across the file to a high quality. • Allocate work appropriately to junior members of the audit team. • Provide coaching to junior members of the team, review their work and provide feedback. • Ensure that the work undertaken on site is in accordance with the approved plan and time budget. • Communicate effectively, pro-actively advising the manager of any issues or developments that may impact on the timeline or result in adjustments being raised. • Develop an effective working relationship with key client contacts, which could be at FC / FD level. • Respond to all client queries and concerns in an efficient and professional manner, often dealing directly with senior management. • Suggest practical solutions to any issues or problems arising. • Maintain a complete log of outstanding issues and queries. • Clear any manager and partner review points raised, and follow up any outstanding queries. • Provide sound advice to clients and demonstrate knowledge of business issues. After the completion of the on-site audit visit, the senior will be expected to: • Assist with the drafting of the Audit Findings Report issued to the client, in particular regards to control issues and recommendations identified during the audit visit. • Assist with the completion and close-down of the audit file.

Person Specification Skills and Qualifications • A passion for the Not for Profit sector and in developing wider knowledge of the issues affecting our clients. • Accountancy training - audit based. • ACCA or ACA, or equivalent, qualified. • Proven skills in external audit. • Proven skills in audit planning, fieldwork and file completion. • Proven skills in supervising and managing staff. • Enthusiasm to assist with departmental responsibilities beyond the audits, for example business development activities or training of juniors.

Travel opportunities

Geographical location of clients typically London with some work for the European based Donor institutions - so there is scope to travel internationally, the extent to which is largely dependent on the individual.