Chief Financial Officer

Job Purpose:

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) will be responsible for overseeing the financial management, ensuring the integrity, transparency, and sustainability of public funds. The CFO will lead strategic financial planning, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with government regulations and policies. This role is vital in promoting fiscal responsibility within a conditional government framework, ensuring that financial resources are allocated efficiently to meet the department's strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Planning & Strategy:

• Lead the development and execution of the financial strategy aligned with the government's priorities.
• Develop long-term and short-term financial plans, including forecasting, budgeting, and cash flow management.
• Provide strategic financial advice to senior leadership to guide decision-making in line with public policy and regulatory frameworks.

1. Budget Management:

• Oversee the creation and management of departmental budgets, ensuring alignment with government funding allocations and priorities.
• Monitor budget performance, identify variances, and implement corrective actions to address discrepancies.

1. Financial Reporting & Compliance:

• Ensure timely and accurate financial reporting to government stakeholders, including detailed financial statements and performance reports.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant financial regulations, policies, and standards (e.g., Government Accounting Standards, Public Fund Management).
• Conduct regular audits to guarantee transparency and accountability of public funds.

1. Risk Management:

• Identify and assess financial risks and develop mitigation strategies to safeguard public funds and resources.
• Oversee the implementation of internal controls to prevent fraud, waste, and mismanagement of funds.

1. Stakeholder Engagement:

• Engage with government officials, auditors, and external partners to provide financial insights and recommendations for effective resource allocation.
• Represent the financial interests of the department in meetings with government entities and other stakeholders.

1. Leadership & Team Management:

• Lead and manage the finance team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and accountability.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior finance staff, ensuring professional development and capacity building.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field; CPA, CFA, or MBA preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in financial management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role, preferably in a public sector or governmental environment.
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of government financial regulations, policies, and public sector accounting standards.
• Skills:
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• High-level analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in financial software and systems.
• Experience in financial forecasting, budgeting, and risk management.

Key Competencies:

• Integrity & Transparency: Demonstrates ethical behavior in managing public funds and promotes a culture of financial accountability.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop long-term financial strategies that align with the government’s objectives.
• Decision-Making: Strong ability to analyze complex financial data and make informed decisions.
• Adaptability: Ability to navigate the challenges and changes in a conditional government environment.