Operational Finance Advisor

Role Overview

Serving as the senior finance business partner to MSF Ubuntu country programmes and field operations, the Operational Finance Advisor turns operational plans into financially sound, well-controlled, and accountable delivery. The role works close to programme leadership and Operational Cell colleagues on budgeting, forecasting, financial risk, audits, and finance capacity, so that resources are used effectively in complex and sometimes emergency contexts. It matters because strong operational finance keeps humanitarian decision-making credible, compliant, and responsive when needs shift quickly.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise country programme teams on financial planning, resource allocation, and the financial feasibility of project designs, exploratory interventions, and operational proposals.
• Facilitate annual country programme budget development, monitor budget performance and variances, and recommend corrective actions or resource optimisation.
• Support rolling forecasts, scenario planning, and portfolio-level financial reviews that inform management and operational decisions.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and ad hoc management reports, including financial analysis for senior decision-makers.
• Conduct periodic operational finance reviews and internal control assessments; identify financial risks and develop practical mitigation measures.
• Ensure compliance with donor requirements, MSF Ubuntu financial policies, local regulations, and financial authorisation frameworks; support internal and external audits and monitor safeguarding and financial integrity principles.
• Coach and mentor Fin/HR Coordinators, Finance Coordinators, and other finance staff; develop tools, guidelines, training materials, and onboarding support that strengthen financial management capacity in operations.
• Collaborate with MedOPS, HR, Logistics, and Supply to build integrated solutions; contribute finance expertise to Operational Cell discussions; and embed EDI, safeguarding, data protection, and performance management responsibilities into unit practice.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Professional managerial accounting qualification such as CIMA or an equivalent credential is preferred.
• Minimum five years of progressive finance experience, including at least three years supporting humanitarian, development, or emergency operations.
• Demonstrated experience in operational finance management; previous work with MSF or an international NGO is highly desirable.
• Technical strength in financial planning and budgeting, financial controls, risk management, financial analysis, audit preparedness, and ERP systems.
• Behavioural strengths in strategic thinking, collaboration and partnership, problem solving, coaching and mentoring, adaptability, and clear communication.
• High ethical standards and a commitment to protecting individuals' data while furthering MSF's mandate.

What We Offer / Why Join

This is a three-year renewable, full-time contract with a maximum duration of six years, starting on 1 December 2026. Compensation and benefits follow MSF reward policy and are subject to local conditions. The post is based in one of the countries within the portfolio; for the first two years, the duty station is expected to be Harare, Johannesburg, or Nairobi, after which the successful candidate must be flexible to move to a final duty station that is still to be confirmed.

• Travel of 20% to 50% per year, including regular visits to countries of operation and MSF Ubuntu hubs