WWF International, Programme Office Financial Controller

From its origins as a small group of committed wildlife enthusiasts, WWF has grown into one of the world's largest and most respected independent conservation organizations – supported by 5 million people and active in over 100 countries on five continents. 

Our mission is to stop the environmental degradation in the world and build a future where humans live in harmony with nature.

For our Programme Office Management Department, we are looking for a qualified:

Programme Office Financial Controller

We are looking for a Programme Office Financial Controller who will work closely with programme office (PO) Finance Directors to oversee financial reporting and accounting. The incumbent will also be responsible for the implementing and monitoring of internal controls in programme offices.

Location/Contract Details:

WWF office in Nairobi, Kenya or potentially one of our other African Programme Offices

Main responsibilities:

• Ensure that the performance of the PO finance functions is improved in all areas reflected through improved quality and timeliness of financial reports and sound budget management, including:
• Through the process of monthly review of PO trial balances, monitor that POs are preparing high-quality, accurate financial statements on a monthly basis.
• Ensure that the review of PO trial balances, which is done by Field Finance Managers, is done timely and thoroughly, and that POs make corrections to their financials as necessary.
• Work with POs to improve timeliness of financial reporting, e.g. through streamlining processes, implementing month-end closing checklists, etc., and the quality of financial information received, e.g. through implementing new reports and improved analysis at the PO level.
• Support POs to prepare high-quality annual budgets for projects and core office costs, ensure the review and final approval of PO annual budgets by the head office, and monitor budgets based on quarterly forecasts.
• Develop and roll-out training, tools and support for POs to improve financial performance in key areas including cost recovery, budgeting and forecasting, balance sheet analysis, cash flow management.
• Ensure environment of effective controls and compliance in POs, through:
• Monitoring that POs implement and comply with WWF International's policies and procedures for POs and the risk and control framework
• Providing training on and communication of PO policies and procedures
• Conducting reviews at PO field offices to identify control gaps and areas of non-compliance with PO policies and procedures
• Supporting POs in implementing effective local processes to ensure full compliance with WWF International's policies and procedures for POs
• Monitor implementation of all audit recommendations (deriving from both internal and external audits) at POs;
• Develop and roll-out training, tools and support for POs to improve the control environment, in key areas including segregation of duties, fraud detection/prevention, etc.

What you need:

Required Qualifications, Skills and Competencies 

• At least 8 years of financial and accounting experience is essential;
• Accounting certification, e.g. ACCA, CPA, or advanced degree in international business or finance, e.g., MBA;
• At least 4 years of management experience, with a proven track record in supervising and working with multi-cultural and decentralised teams;
• Strong knowledge of financial issues, including financial reporting, controls, and budgeting;
• Experience in an organisation managing decentralised international offices and institutions;
• Strong international exposure, in particular in developing countries;
• Prior NGO experience an advantage;
• Strong project management and operational skills, as well as a well-organised approach to work;
• Strong interpersonal skills, able to interact with and influence senior management staff in POs and relevant staff in different functional areas in a positive manner;
• Ability to drive change and high performance;
• Excellent written and spoken English; knowledge of French an advantage;
• Available to travel extensively, especially to Africa;
• Passion and commitment for conservation and sustainable development
• Adhere to WWF’s values: Knowledgeable, Optimistic, Determined and Engaging.

Please consult the attached job description for more information on the position.

How to apply?

Email a cover letter and CV to int.recruitments@wwfint.org with the subject line: Programme Office Financial Controller.

Deadline for applications: March 10th 2013


WWF is an equal opportunity employer and committed to having a diverse workforce.