Finance Assistant - ON HOLD (Applications will only be accepted if submitted through the link provided)

About Mercy Corps

Mercy Corps is a leading global organization powered by the belief that a better world is possible.
In disaster, in hardship, in more than 40 countries around the world, we partner to put bold solutions
into action — helping people triumph over adversity and build stronger communities from within.
Now, and for the future.

Program / Department Summary

The Mercy Corps Finance Department is responsible for all financial functions in Beirut, including accounting, payments and banking, payroll, budgeting, financial reporting, and grant financial management and compliance.  The Mercy Corps Finance Department ensures compliance with donor regulations as well as Mercy Corps’ internal policies and procedures.  In its role as a support to the Program Department, the Finance Department provides timely reports and assistance to the Country Director and the Program team to ensure that financial resources are used efficiently and effectively.

General Position Summary

Working in the Finance Department under the direction of the Senior Finance Officer and Finance Manager, the Assistant Finance Officer will assist in the processing and recording of payment transactions in timely and accurate manner. 

Essential Job Responsibilities 

PROGRAM MANAGEMENT

• Prepare cash or wire transfer requests based on fully approved documents and present to approved check-signers for review and signature.
• Prepare bank payment vouchers and ensure that all bank transactions are properly and fully documented.
• Record payment vouchers daily in the bank/cash subjournal.
• Prepare photocopies of vouchers and other supporting documents as required for the monthly reporting package to HQ Finance.
• File all cash and bank vouchers and maintain voucher filing system such that files are updated, complete and safeguarded.
• Conduct himself/herself both professionally and personally in such a manner as to bring credit to Mercy Corps and not to jeopardize its humanitarian mission.
• Knowledge in payroll preparation is a must
• Knowledge in Social Security, Income Tax declaration is a must

Security

• Ensure compliance with security procedures and policies as determined by country leadership.
• Proactively ensure that team members operate in a secure environment and are aware of policies.

Organizational Learning 

• As part of our commitment to organizational learning and in support of our understanding that learning organizations are more effective, efficient and relevant to the communities they serve, we expect all team members to commit 5% of their time to learning activities that benefit Mercy Corps as well as themselves.

Accountability to Beneficiaries

• Mercy Corps team members are expected to support all efforts toward accountability, specifically
  to our beneficiaries and to international standards guiding international relief and development work, while actively engaging beneficiary communities as equal partners in the design, monitoring and evaluation of our field projects.
• Team members are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner and respect local laws, customs and MC's policies, procedures, and values at all times and in all in-country venues.

Supervisory Responsibility

None.

Accountability

Reports Directly To: Deputy Finance Manager

Works Directly With: Finance Team, Operations, HR and Other Programs

Knowledge and Experience

• Two or more years of bookkeeping, banking or cashiering experience.  
• A degree in accounting or a relevant business field is desirable. 
• Strong computer skills in MS Office programs, particularly Excel. 
• Accuracy in the processing of cash transactions, mathematical aptitude and attention to detail.
• Excellent oral and written English skills.

Success Factors

A clear understanding of finance and procurement ethics as well as the willingness and ability to enforce compliance with Mercy Corps and donor policies and procedures is essential.  A high level of personal integrity, honesty and transparency in all cash handling is absolutely essential.  The ability to interact effectively with international and national staff members is required.  A demonstrated ability to work quickly and accurately, meet deadlines, and process information in support of changing program activities is necessary.