Supporting Humanitarian Efforts in Burkina Faso: A Call for Financial Expertise

Solidarités International (SI),a humanitarian organization with over four decades of experience in assisting populations affected by conflict and natural disasters,is actively seeking a skilled Financial Coordinator to join their mission in Burkina Faso. This role is crucial for ensuring the effective management of resources and the accomplished implementation of aid programs in a region facing notable challenges.

The Role: Financial Coordinator in a Challenging Habitat

The Financial Coordinator will play a vital role in overseeing the financial operations of SI’s programs in Burkina Faso. This includes managing budgets, ensuring compliance with donor regulations, and providing financial support to the operational bases. The position demands a professional capable of navigating the complexities of humanitarian finance in a dynamic and demanding environment.

Key Responsibilities and Required Skills

The ideal candidate will possess a blend of technical expertise and interpersonal skills. Key requirements include:

• Educational Background: A Bac+4 level degree in management and accounting is essential. A Bioforce certificate is considered a valuable asset.
• Humanitarian Experience: 3-4 years of experience in the humanitarian sector, with 0-2 years in a similar financial role.
• technical Competencies:
  • Experience as an assistant to a financial coordinator in a humanitarian mission or as an administrator of a significant base.
  • Strong organizational and prioritization skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks concurrently.
  • In-depth knowledge of financial management for major institutional donors such as ECHO, UNICEF, CDC, BHA, EU, and AFD. Understanding of donor rules and procedures is critical.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), with advanced Excel skills being essential.
  • Mastery of accounting software, especially SAGA, is highly desirable.
• Transversal Skills:
  • Managerial and team leadership abilities, including remote technical support and skills growth.
  • A collaborative mindset and a passion for teamwork.
  • Ability to work under pressure and maintain resilience in challenging situations.
  • Adaptability, adaptability, and autonomy.
  • Knowledge of specific themes and tools relevant to the context.
  • Familiarity with the context of Burkina Faso is highly valued.
• Language Proficiency: Fluency in French (the compulsory working language) and proficiency in English (an asset).

Solidarités International’s Commitment to Burkina Faso

Since 2018, Solidarités International has been actively working in Burkina Faso, focusing on regions such as the North, North Center, the Mouhoun loop, and the Sahel. Their efforts are concentrated on providing food security, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services, and emergency shelter to populations affected by insecurity and displacement. The organization’s mission has grown substantially, now operating with five operational bases and a coordination base in Ouagadougou.

Solidarités International is committed to providing vital assistance to vulnerable populations in Burkina Faso, addressing critical needs and building resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.

SI is part of the Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM)-Fontline consortium and implements a multisectoral response program addressing urgent needs of displaced populations. Their portfolio includes cash transfer and voucher programs, and they co-lead a cross-border consortium focused on resilience and conflict reduction. Additionally, SI is involved in a Nexus EHA program and a multisectoral response project in the Sahel region.

The Humanitarian Context in Burkina faso

Burkina Faso faces a complex humanitarian crisis,driven by armed conflict,displacement,and climate change. According to recent reports, over two million people are currently displaced within the contry, and millions more are in need of humanitarian assistance. The security situation remains volatile, hindering access to essential services and exacerbating existing vulnerabilities.

Organizations like Solidarités International play a crucial role in providing life-saving assistance and supporting the resilience of affected communities. The Financial coordinator position is essential for ensuring that these efforts are effectively managed and that resources are used efficiently to maximize impact.

Join Solidarités international and Make a Difference

This is an chance to contribute to a meaningful cause and make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable populations in Burkina Faso. Solidarités International offers a challenging and rewarding work environment, where dedicated professionals can use their skills and expertise to address critical humanitarian needs.

A Chance to Make a Difference: Finance Deputy Position Available

International Solidarity is seeking a dedicated Finance Deputy to support their Financial Coordinator (CAF) in Burkina Faso. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a growing mission and ensure the effective management of financial resources. The position focuses on supporting the CAF in overseeing all financial aspects, maintaining financial stability, and adhering to International Solidarity procedures, donor guidelines, and local laws.

Compensation and Benefits: A thorough Package

The position offers a competitive compensation package designed to support expatriate staff. This includes:

• Salary and Per Diem: A gross monthly salary starting from EUR 2310 (EUR 2100 base + 10% annual leave paid monthly), plus a monthly per diem of EUR 550.
• Housing and Travel: Coverage of housing costs and round-trip travel expenses between the expatriate’s home country and Burkina Faso.
• Rest and Recuperation: A work-study system providing 7 working days of leave every three months, accompanied by USD 850 from International Solidarity. Additionally, one rest day is granted per month worked.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Expatriates receive insurance that covers all health costs, including medical, surgical, dental, and ophthalmological care, as well as repatriation. A provident system is also in place, covering risks of war. Costs for essential vaccinations and antimalarial treatments are reimbursed.

Life in Ouagadougou: navigating the Capital City

Ouagadougou, the capital of Burkina Faso, offers a relatively pleasant living environment. While safety protocols are in place, including restrictions on certain areas, there are currently no curfews or confinement risks. International Solidarity provides collective housing for expatriates, ensuring a supportive living arrangement.

Guest house amenities include:

• House staff
• internet and telephone access
• Canal+ entertainment
• Catering services, with a cook available and opportunities to dine at external restaurants depending on the security situation.

Key Responsibilities and Challenges

The Finance Deputy will play a crucial role in supporting the financial operations of the mission. Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting the CAF in managing and coordinating all financial aspects of the mission.
• Ensuring the financial stability of the mission and compliance with all relevant procedures and regulations.
• Serving as a key point of contact between headquarters and the mission for financial management matters, particularly budget monitoring.

Specific challenges and priorities for the first few months include:

• Continuing the implementation of all financial procedures within the mission,with a focus on shared costs.
• Providing training and capacity building for the finance team on all financial tools.
• Taking control of the mission’s financial coverage and contract portfolio.

Navigating Security Constraints

The role may involve navigating security constraints, including cities under blockade and difficult-to-access areas. Unforeseen circumstances, such as flight cancellations by Unhas, may also occur.

The Importance of Humanitarian Aid in Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso faces significant humanitarian challenges.According to the UN Office for the Coordination of humanitarian Affairs (OCHA),as of early 2024,over 2 million people in Burkina Faso require humanitarian assistance due to conflict,displacement,and food insecurity.Organizations like International Solidarity play a vital role in providing essential services and support to vulnerable populations.This position offers a chance to contribute directly to these efforts and make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.

Humanitarian needs in Burkina Faso remain high, with millions requiring assistance due to ongoing conflict and displacement.

UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA)