Financial Manager (50%)

The GFRAS-YPARD secretariat is seeking a diligent, dynamic, attentive, and flexible Financial Manager, with experience managing projects in international cooperation. The mission of the Global Forum for Rural Advisory Services (GFRAS) is about enhancing the performance of advisory services so that they can better serve farm families and rural producers, thus contributing to improved livelihoods in rural areas and the sustainable reduction of hunger and poverty. Young Professionals for Agricultural Development (YPARD) serves as a global platform through which young professionals can express their ideas and realize their full potential towards a dynamic agricultural research for development. GFRAS and YPARD operate a joint secretariat.

This position will be based at the upcoming GFRAS-YPARD Secretariat in Frick, Switzerland. The Financial Manager will be accountable to the GFRAS Executive Secretary (ES).

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

· Closely liaising with GFRAS’ host organization (FiBL);

· Managing the development of budgets and financial statements (projects, secretariat);

· Assessing and providing foresight related to the financial situation (projects, secretariat);

· Payment approval;

· Drafting and monitoring contracts with financial partners and service providers;

· Supporting contract negotiations;

· Supporting GFRAS and YPARD networks in financial management;

· Maintaining accounting systems in collaboration with the host organization;

· Managing financial detail to ensure legal compliance;

· Providing oversight of expenses, cash flow and balance sheet with the host organization;

· Investigating and applying means to improve finances management efficiency and system optimization.

Candidate profile requirements:

· Minimum 10 years of relevant financial management experiences;

· Profound working experience in Global South collaboration;

· Degree in finances, economics or a related field;

· Proficient in ABACUS and other relevant project and financial management systems programmes;

· Organized, responsible, thorough team player;

· Ability to manage multiple assignments simultaneously;

· Strong negotiation and decision-making skills

· Proficient in English; command of German and French are a definite advantage.

Female candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.

The employment contract will be elaborated by GFRAS. Swiss rules and regulations apply to the contract. The remuneration will be commensurate to the competencies of the position holder. The assignment begins on 1^st December 2020 or on the earliest possible date after that. Interviews are expected to take place in the week of November 9^th 2020.