Finance Manager

FINANCE MANAGER

TERMS OF REFERENCE

MarAlliance is a leading international non-profit, operating across seven countries, with official registrations in the US, Belize, Panama, and Cabo Verde, and active engagement in Honduras since 2014. We are dedicated to pioneering conservation efforts for endangered marine species, particularly sharks, rays, large finfish and turtles, alongside their critical coastal habitats. Our approach is collaborative, involving community-based research, educational initiatives, and conservation strategies, working hand-in-hand with fishermen, tourism professionals, students, protected area personnel, policymakers, and other vital marine stakeholders. By collecting crucial data on marine populations, artisanal fisheries, the impact of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), and the behavior and ecology of marine wildlife in a rapidly changing world, we inform and empower evidence-based conservation and management decisions. As the populations of many large marine species continue to decline, MarAlliance stands as a formidable, science-driven advocate, guiding our partners in developing and implementing effective conservation strategies to reverse these trends and ensure a sustainable future for marine life.

Position Summary

We are looking for a dedicated and experienced NGO Finance Manager to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for overseeing all financial operations, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and providing strategic financial guidance to support the organization's mission. This role requires a deep understanding of non-profit financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, grant management, and financial reporting. The NGO Finance Manager will work closely with the executive team, program managers, and external stakeholders to ensure the financial health and sustainability of the organization. Key responsibilities include developing and implementing financial policies, managing donor funds, preparing financial statements, and conducting financial analysis. The successful candidate will have strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders. This is a critical role that requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to the values and goals of the organization.

Key responsibilities

Finance Management

• Lead the development and management of the total operating budget, ensuring accurate expense tracking and cash flow management.
• Guide financial forecasting and improve planning systems for program leaders in collaboration with the Operations Manager (OM).
• Prepare and present financial reports to the executive team.
• Oversee donor fund management, grant compliance, and conduct monthly reconciliations.
• Develop financial policies and maintain internal controls to safeguard assets.
• Manage external auditor relationships and oversee annual audits and 990 processes.
• Analyze financial performance to support strategic decision-making and align financial strategies with organizational objectives.
• Provide training for program managers on financial processes and mentor finance staff.
• Establish metrics for evaluating financial performance and foster a collaborative team culture.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Minimum of five years in financial management or operations within an NGO.
• Expertise in budget development and oversight aligned with organizational goals.
• Strong financial reporting, analytical, and strategic decision-making skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
• Strong relationship-building and collaboration skills.
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial concepts to non-financial colleagues.
• Discretion in handling sensitive financial information.
• Flexibility and a proven track record in small teams in fast-paced environments.
• Understanding of non-profit accounting principles, with great proficiency in QuickBooks and Microsoft Office Suite.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Masters in finance, accounting, or related field.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for sound decision-making.
• Proven ability to manage multiple financial initiatives simultaneously & collaboratively.
• Commitment to MarAlliance’s mission of marine conservation.
• Fluency in English; proficiency in Spanish preferred, with Portuguese or French as an asset.

Duration

The position is full time and remote, preferably based in the US or in the PST to EST time zones, with some travel to often remote or rustic field locations. The position is available for one year with possibility of annual renewal based on satisfactory performance and funding.

Salary and benefits

The salary is based on qualifications and experience with a range of 53-68k annually. Staff benefits include health insurance support, international professional travel and capacity building opportunities, flexible hours, paid vacation, and communications allowances.

Location and Oversight

The position is fully remote and can be based anywhere within an Americas time zone. The Financial Manager will report to the Executive Director and collaborate closely with relevant MarAlliance team members.

To apply

Please send CV, letter of interest and three references as one PDF package to info@maralliance.org stating “LAST NAME_FM-MAR” in the subject line by November 15th, 2024.