i am very happy to submit the second positions for a proposed project in Afghanistan, that I am recruiting this week. If you meet the qualifications requirements, below, for Finance Director, and are interested, please Application Instructions and forward requested documents to me!

Position Title:    Finance Director 

Project (Forecasted): Women and Men in Agriculture (WAMA) Activity
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan
Reports to: Chief of Party; dotted line to Chief Financial Officer
Contract Period: October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2029 (5 years).  Position is contingent upon successful award.

BACKGROUND
Since 2003, Our Client has worked to rebuild Afghanistan's agricultural economy across all 34 provinces, transforming war-torn lands into productive farmlands. With over 20 years of deep experience in the region and a strong network of local professionals and leadership, our commitment to co-creating locally-tailored solutions has established us as one of the few trusted INGOs in the country. From farm production to export facilitation, our suite of proven and sustainable market-driven interventions throughout Afghanistan promotes inclusive economic growth, food security, and resilience to climate change.

PROJECT SUMMARY
The Women and Men in Agriculture (WAMA) Activity aims to improve food security and resilience in Afghanistan through increased agricultural productivity, diversification, and market development. The project will focus on strengthening value chains, enhancing climate resilience, and supporting gender equality by empowering women in agriculture. Key activities include providing technical assistance to farmers, facilitating access to markets, and promoting the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices. The project will also implement a comprehensive monitoring, evaluation, collaboration, learning, and adaptation plan to ensure effective progress tracking and adaptive management. Overall, WAMA seeks to create sustainable agricultural growth, improve livelihoods, and enhance the resilience of rural communities in Afghanistan. Funding levels are anticipated to be between $50 - $60M over five years.

POSITION SUMMARY
The Finance Director will oversee the financial management and operations of the Women and Men in Agriculture (WAMA) Activity. The Finance Director will be responsible for ensuring compliance with USAID regulations, managing the project budget, and maintaining accurate financial records. This role requires a deep understanding of financial management in the context of international development projects, particularly those funded by USAID.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Financial Management:
• Provide direction, guidance, and oversight of the Finance Department in support of programmatic implementation.
• Ensure compliance with USAID regulations and organizational policies.
• Ensure compliance with Client financial policies and procedures.
• Manage the project budget, including planning, monitoring, and reporting.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records.

Budgeting and Reporting:
• Prepare and monitor project budgets to ensure alignment with project objectives and donor requirements.
• Generate and submit regular financial reports to the Chief of Party, Program Finance Manager, and USAID.
• Oversee financial audits and implement recommendations as necessary.
• Prepare budget forecasts and financial analysis.
• Assist in preparing and reviewing monthly and quarterly reports to the home office and donors.

Compliance and Internal Controls:
• Ensure all financial activities comply with USAID regulations, organizational policies, and applicable laws.
• Develop and maintain robust internal control systems to safeguard project assets.
• Conduct regular financial reviews and audits to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement.
• Implement corrective actions to address any identified financial issues.
• Ensure accounting practices are in compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Oversee tax reporting and tax payment compliance with Afghan Income Tax Law.

Team Management:
• Supervise and support the finance team, providing guidance and professional development opportunities.
• Ensure the finance team is adequately staffed and trained to meet project needs.
• Foster a collaborative and efficient work environment within the finance team.
• Coordinate activities of finance operations and procurement teams to produce realistic monthly and quarterly projections.
• Develop strong working relationships with donor program financial and program staff to foster communication and positive image of Client’s stewardship of donor funds.

Stakeholder Engagement:
• Collaborate with project partners, stakeholders, and the USAID Mission to ensure effective financial management and reporting.
• Represent the project in financial matters with USAID, auditors, and other stakeholders.
• Maintain strong working relationships with banks, auditors, and other financial institutions.
• Ensure communication and coordination issues in support of program implementation.
• Assist with oversight and direction to the Procurement and Operations units working directly with each unit’s supervisor.

Risk Management:
• Identify and mitigate financial risks associated with the project. Develop and implement risk management strategies and contingency plans. Ensure financial systems and processes are resilient and adaptable to changing circumstances. Consistently analyze financial data and present reports in an accurate and timely manner. Communicate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Ensure the safety and security of all project personnel, facilities, and resources.
• Maintain close collaboration with the Home Office team, including management, finance, and human resource personnel.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
• Advanced degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field.
• Professional accounting certification (e.g., CPA, ACCA) is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in financial management of international development projects, preferably USAID-funded projects.
• Proven track record of managing large project budgets and ensuring compliance with donor regulations.
• Strong knowledge of USAID financial regulations and reporting requirements.
• Experience in financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Proficiency in financial management software and Microsoft Office applications.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of Dari or Pashto is an advantage.
• Proficiency in complex accounting systems and advanced level MS Excel skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and communication skills, including presentation skills.
• Focuses on results and program achievement.
• Strong sense of personal initiative and problem-solving skills.
• Experience managing and developing finance teams in challenging environments.
• Multiple country work experience is required.

EVALUATION CRITERIA
Educational Background (10 points):
• Advanced degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field.
• Professional accounting certification (e.g., CPA, ACCA) is highly desirable.
Relevant Experience (30 points):
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in financial management of international development projects, preferably USAID-funded projects.
• Proven track record of managing large project budgets and ensuring compliance with donor regulations.
Technical Expertise (25 points):
• Strong knowledge of USAID financial regulations and reporting requirements.
• Experience in financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting.
Leadership and Management Skills (20 points):
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Experience supervising and managing finance teams.
Analytical and Reporting Skills (5 points):
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in financial management software and Microsoft Office applications.

LOCATION
Throughout the assignment, the Finance Director will reside in Kabul, with periodic remote work as appropriate.

COMPENSATION
Compensation for this position will be based on past compensation. Special allowances will be provided for time in the country. Living quarters are provided at Interlink. All transportation, security, and logistics are provided. Three paid leave trips home per year. Paid leave and holidays are provided. For more details, please see the firm’s Personnel Plan. This plan will be provided along with a job offer.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTION: To apply, please submit the following documents to linda.aines@internationalink.net, with “Finance Director - Afghanistan” in the Subject line and attach:
1.) Resume/CV that clearly shows you meet the Qualifications requirements, and

2.) a list of at least three professional referees; list will include name, contact information, and work relationship to the referee.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and the position will be filled as soon as a qualified candidate is identified.

Deadline for Application: July 22, 2024     (no longer available-filled)