Job Opportunity: Senior Finance Officer

• Location: Yaoundé, Cameroon
• Reports To: Finance & Operations Lead
• Position Type: Full-time
• Number of Vacancies: 1

Organization Overview

Shwari Health Cameroon is a nationally registered organization committed to providing innovative, evidence-driven solutions to strengthen health systems in Cameroon and beyond, with a particular focus on the health and wellbeing of children and adolescents. Our mission is to become a leading implementation science organization in Cameroon, closing the “know-do” gap through evidence-based health interventions and strategies.

In partnership with Georgetown University’s Center for Global Health Practice and Impact (CGHPI), and in collaboration with Cameroon’s Regional Technical Groups (RTGs), we are implementing the SAFECARE-Cameroon Project—a five-year initiative funded by CDC/PEPFAR. The project aims to establish and maintain comprehensive, community and facility-based HIV services across PEPFAR-supported regions in Cameroon, accelerating the country’s progress toward HIV epidemic control.

To support this important work, we are seeking a qualified and experienced Senior Finance Officer to join our team in Yaoundé.

Position Summary

The Senior Finance Officer will provide high-level financial support to ensure the effective and compliant management of project funds. Working closely with the Finance & Operations Lead, this role involves overseeing financial operations, ensuring compliance with donor and internal regulations, producing accurate reports, and managing financial risks.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee cash management processes, including cash security, periodic physical counts, and checks on custodians and checkbooks.

• Prepare and review vouchers and payment documents, ensuring they are properly authorized before expenses are incurred.

• Record financial transactions daily using the organization’s accounting software.

• Collaborate with the Finance & Operations Lead and the Country Program Director to review and approve project advances and liquidations in accordance with grant requirements.

• Ensure compliance with internal financial policies and procedures, as well as donor regulations (e.g., 45 CFR 74, 2 CFR 230, 2 CFR 213).

• Produce timely and accurate financial reports for donor submission.

• Serve as the primary liaison with banking partners for day-to-day operations.

• Monitor and report any strategic financial concerns to the Finance & Operations Lead and Country Program Director.

• Perform monthly bank and petty cash reconciliations.

• Maintain proper filing (both physical and electronic) of financial records.

• Support the budget development process, ensuring accuracy and consistency.

• Ensure timely remittance of all statutory deductions to relevant authorities.

• Provide financial training and support to staff as needed.

• Lead the preparation of month-end and year-end financial reports.

• Review petty cash vouchers and verify approvals before processing.

• Supervise Finance Assistants, the Finance Officer, and the Administration Officer.

• Oversee staff travel and activity advance processing and timely reconciliation.

• Prepare and post monthly payroll journal entries based on staff level of effort (LOE).

• Contribute to the preparation of monthly management reports, including cost center analysis and financial forecasting.

• Plan and monitor cash flow to support smooth program implementation.

• Support reviews and audits of sub-grantee financial reports, identify risks, and help mitigate financial liabilities.

• Provide backup support to the Finance & Operations Lead when needed.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Proven experience in a senior financial management role, preferably in an international NGO or donor-funded environment.

• Strong understanding of financial regulations applicable to U.S. Government grants.

• Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Excel.

• Excellent organizational and analytical skills.

• Ability to lead and mentor junior finance staff.

• High level of integrity and attention to detail.

• Fluency in French and working proficiency in English are mandatory.

Key Working Relationships

• Internal (Cameroon): Finance & Operations Lead, Chief of Party

• External: Banking institutions, Tax authorities, Service providers

Qualifications and Experience

• Master’s degree in Accounting or related field; ACCA or CPA certification is a strong asset

• Minimum of three years of relevant post-qualification experience, preferably within an international organization

• Demonstrated maturity, self-motivation, and a strong problem-solving mindset with a high degree of initiative

• Proficient in accounting software (QuickBooks experience is a plus) and fully competent in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Solid understanding of the Cameroonian business environment

• Strong sense of diplomacy, discretion, and professionalism

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team

• Professional fluency in both written and spoken English and French

• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural setting while demonstrating respect for diversity

Work Environment

• Organization: SHWARI Health Association Cameroon (SHAC)
• Context: Dynamic, mission-driven, multicultural work environment

Key Competencies Required:

Core Values

• Commitment: Proactively contributes to the achievement of organizational objectives

• Diversity: Respects and values diverse perspectives and contributions

• Integrity: Upholds the organization’s principles through ethical conduct

• Accountability: Accepts responsibility for personal and delegated tasks

Core Competencies

• Communication: Promotes clarity and transparency in all forms of communication

• Collaboration: Fosters teamwork and builds trust-based relationships

• Planning: Approaches objectives with a structured and results-oriented mindset

• Analysis & Decision-Making: Evaluates information effectively and makes sound, timely decisions

• Initiative: Actively proposes and drives innovative ideas and projects

• Flexibility: Adapts readily to changing priorities and environments

Managerial Competencies (for leadership roles)

• Leadership: Inspires confidence, builds trust, and creates a supportive work environment

• Strategic Thinking: Sets clear goals aligned with organizational strategy and develops actionable plans

• Performance Management: Encourages continuous growth and development through feedback and support

Application Process

To Apply:

1. Submit your application electronically via https://forms.gle/zFso5waZkTf716JG6

2. Clearly indicate the position title in the subject line of your email

3. Include three professional references familiar with your recent work (preferably within the last 3–5 years), with daytime phone numbers and email addresses

4. Attach a detailed cover letter explaining your suitability for the role, focusing on relevant skills, qualifications, and experience

5. Provide a three-page resume/CV that outlines key accomplishments in areas aligned with the job description

6. Ensure your application meets the minimum qualifications listed above for consideration

7. Include daytime contact information (telephone number)

8. Application deadline: May 21, 2025, by 5:00 PM (Cameroon Time). Late submissions will not be reviewed

SHWARI Health Association Cameroon (SHAC) is committed to equal employment opportunity and encourages all qualified candidates to apply regardless of gender, ethnicity, or other personal attributes.