Emergency Response Finance Director - International Finance Team - US, UK

$90,000 - $110,000/Yr

Mercy Corps - Portland, OR

Full-time

Remote - Portland, OR

Social Assistance

About the position

The Emergency Response Finance Director is a key member of the Global Emergency Response Teams (ERT's) deployable team for emergency response, the role supports the financial management function for Emergency Response start-ups or response pivots and oversees the financial management of emergency response programming in field responses. The Director plays a key role in advancing strategies and initiatives globally, ensuring alignment with Mercy Corps' internal policies, procedures, and donor regulations. Reporting via a joint management line to the Vice Presidents of International Finance and Emergency Response, this position collaborates to optimize the use of financial resources across programs and departments, fostering efficiency and effectiveness. This is a deployable role, and the team member will have multiple assignments throughout the year in support of or to lead financial management related to the emergency response. The role may also support assignments related to preparedness efforts.

Responsibilities

• Spearheaded the strategic planning, development, and maintenance of payment systems, including the establishment of banking relationships, managing petty cash, and other essential systems to ensure the effective execution of Mercy Corps' emergency response operations.
• Lead the setup and continuous improvement of the accounting system, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and donor compliance.
• Drive the formulation, implementation, and periodic update of local financial and accounting policies and procedures to ensure robust financial management and internal control within all operations.
• Act as the principal liaison with global support teams and local authorities, ensuring all financial and accounting systems meet organizational standards and comply with regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with emergency response teams to ensure the seamless integration of finance functions with programmatic activities, enhancing operational efficiency and effectiveness.
• Lead on-the-ground financial operations during crises, providing strategic support and direction in emergency locations as required.
• Oversee the development and management of accounting and financial reporting systems, ensuring they meet the needs of emergency response programs and adhere to donor timelines and requirements.
• Ensure timely and accurate financial reporting to headquarters, donors, and other stakeholders.
• Direct cash flow planning to ensure liquidity and financial stability during emergency operations.
• Oversee banking relationships and the management of cash disbursement processes, ensuring efficiency and compliance with organizational policies.
• Lead the budgeting process for emergency response initiatives, working closely with ERT, country, and regional teams to develop realistic and strategic financial plans.
• Ensure compliance with internal policies, donor regulations, and local laws across all financial operations.
• Oversee the financial aspects of grant and contract administration, ensuring expenditures align with budgets and donor requirements.
• Lead the recruitment, onboarding, and professional development of Finance staff involved in emergency response.
• Serve as the main point of contact for financial matters within the Emergency Response team.
• Collaborate with program, operations, and headquarters finance teams to ensure cohesive financial management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and 6+ years of international level progressive financial management experience within an INGO at field level/overseas level experience, including supervisory experience required.
• Demonstrated success as an emergency finance leader across all disciplines including planning, budget development for new programs/proposals, financial systems-set up, financial & accounting management and reporting.
• Broad knowledge and experience in emergency response financial management strategies.
• Experience working in complex and fast-paced environments, with the ability to deploy to emergency locations for extended periods.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to effectively manage and motivate teams.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and build strong relationships.
• Strong financial management and budgeting skills.
• Excellent oral and written English skills required. Fluency in a second language (French, Spanish or Arabic) a plus.
• Ability to travel up to 50-60 percent of the time including emergency response deployments.
• Proficiency with MS Office software required (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Benefits

• USD $90,000 to $110,000 starting salary commensurate on experience.
• 5% of time dedicated to learning activities for personal and professional growth.