Finance Assistant – AVRR – Lagos – International Organization for Migration

Context:
Assisted voluntary return and reintegration (AVRR) is a key strategy in ensuring the humane and orderly movement of migrants. It is an indispensable component of a migration management approach which is intended to be mutually beneficial to migrants, governments and other sectors of society affected by migration. IOM implements the AVRR which has well-tailored reintegration measures supporting the socio-economic integration of returnees in their country of origin. In Nigeria, IOM has been providing reception and reintegration assistance to returnees since 2002.

Under the AVRR programme, IOM intends to set up a Microfinance Loan Program to be offered through a partnership between a microfinance institution and delivered on a not – for – profit basis. The program aims to provide access to safe and affordable credit to beneficiaries under the AVRR program who are engaged in micro-business. The loans will be personal loans between NGN100, 000 – NGN 300,000 for terms up to 1 year with an interest rate to be determined. Successful continuation and sustainability of micro-lending services will depend largely on the development and application of appropriate lending methodologies and portfolio management in a changing environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for overall technical leadership regarding.

Under the overall supervision of the chief of mission (CoM) in Nigeria, and under the direct supervision of the Head of Sub Office in Lagos and the Resource Management Officer in Abuja, and in close coordination with the IOM Bern, the successful candidate will contribute to the implementation of the micro- credit program.

Core Functions/Responsibilities:
· Work with the AVRR team to receive or identify program beneficiaries and conduct an initial assessment and checking eligibility.
· Educate the beneficiaries about the impact the benefits of microfinance to all sectors of the community.
· Assist clients complete loan applications, including preparing budget and collecting supporting documentation.

Verify invoices and ascertain that the equipment, supplies or services they refer to were duly received or provided before proceeding with payment request.
· Assist in monitoring and follow up including liaising with MFI personal loans and collections.
· Support Liaison with relevant governmental, non-governmental entities (NGOs), international organizations, micro-credit institutions and as well as other relevant stakeholders.
· Assist on the researching, compiling and presenting information on developments on microfinance and micro credit for successful implementation of the AVRR project activities.

Enter payments, receipts and non-cash vouchers in SAP.
Ensure all supporting documentation and signatures are obtained before finalizing vouchers.
Maintains a filing system for vouchers.
Assist in preparation of monthly / annual financial reports for the mission and donor reports.
Bring to the attention of the supervisor any relevant financial, budgetary and administrative issues.
Perform such other duties as may be assigned.

Desirable Competencies:
Behavioural:
a) takes responsibility and manages constructive criticism; b) works effectively with all clients and stakeholders; c) promotes continuous learning: communicates clearly; d) takes initiative and drives high levels of performance management; e) plans work, anticipates risks, and sets goals within area of responsibility; f) displays mastery of subject matter; g) contributes to a collegial team environment; h) creates a respectful office environment free of harassment and retaliation, and promotes the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA); i) incorporates gender-related needs, perspectives, and concerns, and promotes equal gender participation.

Technical:
a) Works effectively with local authorities, stakeholders, beneficiaries, and the broader
community to advance country office or regional objectives; b) self-motivated, with a good work ethic; c) Ability to work without supervision and possess excellent leadership skills; d) A good knowledge of the micro-finance industry trends and practices; e) Must exercise excellent communication, interpersonal and customer service skills; f) Must be courteous, tactful and work cooperatively with others; g) Must be able to analyze situations and take effective action using initiative, resourcefulness and good judgment. Must work independently.

Desirable Qualifications and Experience:
a) University degree from an accredited academic institution in Accounting, Finance, Economics or Business Administration preferably with a professional certification as chartered accountant or certified public accountant; b) four years of relevant experience in finance, accounting and budgeting; c) working experience in the area of microfinance (microcredit projects) highly desirable; d) demonstrated experience in or familiarity with NGO environment and/or working with vulnerable populations; e) excellent level of computer literacy; f) knowledge of IPSAS and SAP highly desirable; g) knowledge of IOM accounting system, software and procedure a distinct advantage.

Language:
Thorough knowledge of written and spoken English.

HOW TO APPLY
Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications to email address iomnigeriahr@iom.inton or before 10 April, 2015.

In order for the applications to be considered valid, IOM only accepts applications with a cover letter not more than one page specifying the motivation for application, addressed to The Chief of Mission, International Organization for Migration (IOM) and with a subject line VN2015_06 (O) -NAT Finance Assistant-AVRR.

All applications should include a functional e-mail address, mobile number/s and detailed curriculum vitae (CV).Please note this position is open to Nigerian nationals and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.The applicant must be able to live and work in Lagos.

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