Financial and Administrative Advisor

GRM International are currently compiling a bid for the second phase of the
Programme for Luapula Agricultural and Rural Development (PLARD) which first
phase started in 2006. The overall objective of PLARD as defined for the
first phase is “to contribute to the development of the efficient,
competitive and sustainable agricultural and rural sector, which ensures
increased income and food security for the people of Luapula province”. The
programme encompasses four components: agriculture, agribusiness, fisheries
and enhancement of a supportive policy, regulatory and institutional
environment.

GRM is currently looking for a "Financial and Administrative Advisor".

Should you be interested in being included as part of our proposal can you
kindly send to both: Jay Alino (jay.alino@grminternational.com) and c.c
Emily MacManus (emily.macmanus@grminternational.com) the following
information:
1. The position you are interested in stated in the subject of you email
2. Your current CV
3. Provide details of your availability
4. Your salary expectations (in euros per month)
5. Two recent referees who can comment on your relevant experience

Note that due to the tight time frames - GRM would appreciate a response by
the end of the week (19th October 2010).

Roles and responsibilities
During the first 2 years of PLARD II, the Financial and Administrative
Advisor (FAA) will provide advisory services to MACO/MFLD as well as ensure
effective financial management of the PLARD funds. If PLARD II transitions
to full alignment after 2 years, the FAA will only be providing advisory
services. During the transition phase, the FAA reports to the Management
Committee. During full alignment, the FAA reports to the Provincial
Coordinator of MACO and/or MLFD.

Financial management (during transition phase only)
1. Responsible for the financial management of the MFA Finland contribution to PLARD II funding.
2. As member of the Management Committee, responsible for the preparation and presentation of consolidated budgets and financial reports.
3. Ensure that decisions of the Management Committee that have financial consequences comply with the financial clauses of the contractual agreement between the MFA Finland and the consultancy company, and propose alternative ways forward if this is not the case.
4. Supervise the F&A assistant
5. Verify the financial reporting of the decentralised funds and follow up on accountability issues.
6. Organise the introduction of double-entry bookkeeping system at provincial and district level for accounting of the MFA Finland funds for PLARD II.
7. Support the CTA with financial and admin management of the long term TA
(this task continues after transition to full alignment, and will become sole responsibility of the FAA).

Advisory work
1. Support MACO/MLFD financial staff at provincial and district level with all financial management aspects of both GRZ funding and decentralised PLARD funds.
2. Liaise with central government on choice of double-entry bookkeeping systems.
3. Support the capacity building activities related to double-entry bookkeeping.
4. Support the CTA with capacity building work related to procurement and assessment management.
5. Support the process of quarterly harmonised planning and budgeting exercises.

Preferable requirements
• At least BSc degree on a relevant subject (e.g. economics / financial management)
• Solid work experience including senior/advisory position in public sector
• Proven track record in the development of effective financial and administrative systems
• Solid experience as advisor and demonstrated abilities as a trainer.
• Good communication, coordination and liaison skills
• Good understanding of technical aspects (hardware, software) of financial management systems
• Pro-active, team-player, able to work in a multi-cultural environment
• Previous experience in Zambia or the region considered an advantage.

Duty station: Mansa, Luapula province, Zambia

Duration: 4 years