Director of Finance and Administration | Heifer International

Position: Director of Finance and Administration
Organisation: Heifer International

Function
The Director of Finance and Administration is accountable for providing strategic and analytical leadership across Finance, Administration, Procurement, and Logistics functions within the country programme. The role is critical in developing a cohesive financial monitoring framework, upgrading tools and practices to meet the demands of a competitive donor landscape, and ensuring robust compliance with both internal policies and donor requirements.

The position leads the adoption of best practices in grant compliance, financial management, and systems development, thereby strengthening stakeholder confidence in Heifer Bangladesh's operational integrity. It also oversees internal controls related to financial reporting and compliance, including assessments and reviews that span both pre- and post-award activities. Furthermore, the role ensures effective oversight of administrative operations, procurement processes, logistics, and asset management—promoting efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and organisational accountability. The Director serves as the key liaison with relevant U.S. headquarters departments to support seamless integration of country-level and global functions.

Responsibilities and Deliverables

Coordinate with Programmes in Pre-Award and Post-Award Grant Financial Management (40%)

• Lead cost proposal development, ensuring alignment with donor expectations and project objectives
• Provide programme support as shared leadership, ensuring financial integration across programme design and implementation
• Coordinate with Programmes during pre-award budget development, review, and negotiations
• Provide leadership on post-award financial management to ensure compliance with donor agreements
• Monitor project burn rates and ensure timely, accurate donor reporting and dashboards
• Coordinate budgeting, forecasting, and efficient cash flow management with HQ and country teams
• Monitor donor compliance with timelines and address related financial or contractual inquiries
• Advise Programme teams on key financial aspects to strengthen decision-making and accountability

Ensure Compliance with Regulatory and Organisational Financial Activities (30%)

• Ensure compliance with all financial activities by implementing Heifer's financial policies and procedures
• Continuously assess the adequacy and effectiveness of internal financial systems, controls, and reporting
• Coordinate and/or conduct internal audits and reviews to reduce fraud risk and enhance assurance mechanisms
• Support the Country Director in strategic planning and decision-making for financial growth and compliance
• Oversee external audits and incorporate recommendations into both short-term and long-term system improvements
• Collaborate with headquarters during financial closings to ensure accurate global reporting
• Lead the implementation of Heifer's ERP system, promoting consistency and best practices
• Manage all aspects of the external audit process, including communication, scheduling, data submission, and follow-up actions

Oversee Administrative, Logistical, and Procurement Operations (25%)

• Supervise operations related to administration, procurement, logistics, and fleet management
• Ensure full compliance with Heifer and donor-specific procurement and operational policies
• Promote operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and risk mitigation across support functions
• Implement office systems and protocols promoting security, safety, sustainability, and business continuity
• Supervise asset management, vendor contracts, lease agreements, and service-level arrangements
• Provide strategic direction to ensure alignment of support services with programme goals

Perform Other Duties as Assigned (5%)

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, Management Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field, with 10 years of experience and 2 years in a supervisory role; or master's degree with 8 years of experience and 2 years in a supervisory role
• Experience in donor-funded international development environments, especially with USG and institutional funders (e.g. USAID, EU, IFAD, DFID)
• Project management experience certification is an advantage
• Knowledge of NGO operations and compliance requirements
• Experience operating in a multi-currency environment
• Technical proficiency in data gathering, analytics, and Microsoft Office (especially Excel); experience in financial systems and ERP preferred
• Strong communication skills to translate financial concepts for non-finance professionals
• Proficiency in local generally accepted accounting principles, fiscal and payroll statutes

Essential Competencies

• Ability to manage pressure, multitask, and prioritise effectively in a dynamic environment
• Capacity to mentor and train using participatory methodologies; strong facilitation skills preferred
• Ability to handle sensitive personnel matters with confidentiality
• Capability to maintain remote relationships and work collaboratively
• Willingness to work beyond standard hours and to travel domestically and internationally
• Physical capacity to travel to rural project sites

Apply Online

Heifer International is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or disability.