Defend the Environment, a board-led Civil Society Organization (CSO) in Ethiopia, is seeking a dedicated Finance Officer to join its team. Established on January 18, 2021, with a mission to promote environmental protection, fundamental rights, and freedoms, this organization has become a vital force in advocacy, capacity building, public interest litigation, and legal monitoring. Led by young, dynamic professionals, Defend the Environment strives to create a sustainable future through innovative strategies and community engagement.
As a legally registered organization under the Civil Societies Proclamations No. 1113/2019, Defend the Environment upholds the highest standards of operational transparency and accountability. The Finance Officer role is crucial to maintaining this integrity, ensuring the efficient management of the organization’s financial resources, and supporting its impactful initiatives. With a workplace culture that values collaboration, diversity, and professional growth, joining Defend the Environment offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful change while advancing your career.
Located in Addis Ababa, the Finance Officer position provides an attractive and negotiable salary, along with a six-month contractual term that has the potential for extension. Women are especially encouraged to apply, reflecting the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity.
Finance Officer
Key Responsibilities
The Finance Officer will play a pivotal role in ensuring the financial sustainability of Defend the Environment by effectively managing the organization’s resources and maintaining compliance with Ethiopian laws and international accounting standards. Reporting to the Executive Director, this position involves tasks such as planning and directing financial operations, preparing detailed financial reports, and maintaining proper documentation of all transactions.
The role includes managing payments, overseeing budget implementation, and creating internal control systems to safeguard assets and records. The Finance Officer will also liaise with procurement and program staff to ensure smooth operations and monitor resource utilization. From preparing payroll and ensuring timely tax and pension settlements to submitting financial reports to donors and authorities, this position demands meticulous attention to detail and organizational excellence.
The Finance Officer will also be responsible for creating budgets, projecting cash flows, and offering strategic financial advice to the Executive Director. Promoting cost-effectiveness and value for money across the organization’s operations will be integral to this role, making it an essential contributor to the organization’s overall success.
Educational and Professional Requirements
Candidates should hold an MSc in Accounting and Finance with a minimum of two years of relevant experience, or a BA in Accounting and Finance with at least four years of experience. Strong technical skills are vital, including proficiency in MS Excel, financial management software, and International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS).
The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of financial control systems, Ethiopian labor laws, and grant management. Exceptional communication skills in both written and spoken English and Amharic are required, while additional language proficiency is considered an advantage. Moreover, strong planning, organizational, and decision-making skills will be critical to thriving in this dynamic role.
Workplace and Benefits
The position is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and offers a supportive work environment where collaboration and innovation are encouraged. The salary is both attractive and negotiable, reflecting the value the organization places on skilled professionals.
This is a six-month contract role with a strong possibility of extension based on performance. Defend the Environment is particularly committed to fostering gender diversity within its team and strongly encourages women to apply for this position.
How to Apply
Qualified applicants are invited to submit an updated CV, a cover letter, and copies of relevant academic credentials (including grade certificates, degree certificates, and work experience documentation) via email. Applications should be sent to [email protected] with a copy to [email protected] no later than January 25, 2025.
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. For further inquiries, please reach out to the organization at the provided email addresses.
Defend the Environment offers a chance to be part of a transformative mission to protect the environment and promote fundamental rights in Ethiopia. If you are a driven financial professional looking for an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply today.