Regional Finance Delegate (m/f/d), MENA

The German Red Cross (GRC) International Cooperation is dedicated to alleviating human suffering. True to the mandate of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (the RCRC Movement), we foster partnerships that transcend borders. We support our Sister National Societies worldwide, helping them deliver vital assistance to the most vulnerable people.

To assist people affected by disasters, crises and armed conflicts, we are a committed advocate for the fundamental principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and an equal, relevant and reliable partner of our Movement, particularly our Sister National Societies, to fulfil their respective humanitarian mandates and national strategies.

We provide needs-based, flexible, innovative and sustainable support to Sister National Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and the wider humanitarian community. We enable early and immediate life-saving assistance and implement anticipatory action and risk-reducing activities, particularly in the face of climate change and armed conflicts and their humanitarian consequences.

GRC is currently seeking an experienced Regional Finance Delegate (m/f/d) MENA, based in Beirut, Lebanon.

The Finance Delegate will be responsible for the financial and administrative management of GRC projects in cooperation with Sister National Societies in the MENA region. GRC currently works in 10 countries in the region. The Delegate will be part of an experienced team of international and national staff in Beirut supported by GR headquarters in Berlin, Germany.

Starting date: as soon as possible

Duration: 12 months with possible extension

Location: Beirut, Lebanon, with very frequent travels in the MENA region

Main duties & responsibilities:

The main responsibility is securing the financial management of the GRC projects in the respective countries. The delegate will support GRC delegates and national staff of the Sister National Societies in the financial management, including prevention measures of fraud and corruption.

• Overall responsibility of the financial management of GRC projects of concerned countries
• Ensure that all procedures and reports comply with GRC and donor standards and specifications (German FFO, BMZ and EU/ECHO), including regular monitoring and support missions to the concerned countries
• Further development and adaptation of effective and efficient financial management systems for the GRC in-country offices in close cooperation and coordination with the MENA Unit and finance officer at GRC HQ
• Strengthen the capacity of GRC MENA programme and finance staff by trainings and contributing to increased ownership and expertise in financial management of the GRC projects
• Training of country offices staff, local counterparts, and if applicable other delegates and volunteers in donor regulations and financial software administration
• Apply risk management in financial matters, implement anti-fraud and anti-corruption procedures in close cooperation with the GRC MENA country offices and GRC HQ
• Support logistics and procurement procedures
• Represent GRC and liaise with IFRC, ICRC and other Red Cross Movement partners on financial

Required Competencies & Skills:

• Academic training in economics and/or financial management
• Minimum of 3 years of working experience in bookkeeping, accounting and procurement in the field of international humanitarian / development cooperation
• Minimum of 5 years’ working experience in financial reporting and administration
• Working knowledge of donor requirements (Federal Foreign Office, BMZ, ECHO)
• Excellent computer skills in MS office and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations Module and project management.
• Logistics and procurement experience is a strong asset
• Work experience within the Red Cross / Red Crescent Movement is a strong asset
• Willingness to travel extensively to GRC project countries, including crisis contexts and areas with a tense security situation at short notice
• Excellent communication skills, the ability to communicate clearly and effectively and build relationships at all levels, taking into account cultural and language differences
• Good understanding of the different elements of the Red Cross / Red Crescent Movement, in particular the global response tools of IFRC and ICRC and strong ability and agreement to adhere to the Red Cross / Red Crescent Fundamental Principles
• Oral and written fluency in English; Arabic, French or German are a strong asset
• Ability to work effectively in multi-cultural environments
• Ability to complete a thorough medical screening process ‘working abroad under specific climate and health conditions’
• Valid international driving license

What we offer you:

You will be part of a highly motivated professional and multicultural team. We offer you a compensation package according to the collective employment agreement of the GRC, an expatriation allowance during your mission as well as the accommodation. In addition to a full insurance package GRC is covering a home flight within a 12-months period of assignment. You will benefit from a comprehensive training package and receive briefings and coaching prior as well as during and after your mission. Medical check-ups and Psychosocial Support Service are included in your assignment.