Finance Business Partner ( Europe Entity & EU Grants/Contracts) At Saferworld

Saferworld has grown in recent years with income ranging between £16-20 million funded by some 40 donor contracts from governments, the EC and other funding entities. We operate in an increasing complex environment with our head office in London, offices with country programmes in several African countries, Central Asia, Yemen and South Asia, and offices in Washington and Brussels and Beijing, which requires us to ensure our financial systems and processes are fit for purpose.

The finance team provides a crucial role to underpin the organisation by providing assurances on compliance and risk management, by partnering the operational parts of the business and by providing good stewardship of the organisation’s funds. The team works closely with programme staff to optimize effective use of funds and ensure appropriate levels of cost recovery and sustainability. This role provides an exciting opportunity to engage with Saferworld’s work across a range of geographies and thematic contexts within a small but dynamic team.

Job Purpose:

The Finance Business Partner will play a pivotal role in supporting the financial health and sustainability of Saferworld with a specific focus area on Saferworld Europe (Registered in Belgium) and managing and overseeing the financial aspects of EC-funded projects. Reporting to the Senior Finance Business Partner, the role is one three Finance Business Partner functions that work closely together to provide support across the breadth of Saferworld’s global footprint.

This position involves providing strategic financial guidance, overseeing budgeting and forecasting, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and supporting programme managers in financial planning and analysis. It will also involve ensuring compliance with related regulations and providing financial analysis, budgeting, and reporting as required.

The successful candidate will work closely with project managers, relevant country teams, the global finance team and external auditors to ensure the effective and efficient use of EC funds and the smooth financial operation of Saferworld Europe. As a Finance Business Partner, the successful candidate will be adaptable, proactive and engaging, working across the finance team collaboratively when needed.

Roles and Responsibilities:

Financial Planning and Analysis:

• Develop and manage, in collaboration, annual budgets and multi-year financial plans.
• Provide financial analysis and insights to programme managers and senior leadership to support strategic decision-making.
• Monitor and report on key financial metrics and programme and grant performance including tracking of match funding.
Budgeting and Forecasting:

• Prepare and maintain detailed budgets for programmes and projects through engagement with relevant country Finance Managers.
• Assist the Director of Finance and Operations in the preparation of annual budgets and multi-year financial plans
• Conduct regular budget reviews and re-forecasts to ensure alignment with organisational goals.
• Work with project managers to prepare budget amendments and re-forecasts as necessary
• Identify and analyse variances between actual and budgeted financial results.
• Manage optimising currency considerations.
Financial Reporting:

• Prepare accurate and timely financial statements and reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure all financial records are maintained in accordance with EU regulations and organisational policies.
• Manage annual Saferworld Europe audit and related project audits.
• Coordinate the preparation and submission of financial reports to donors and stakeholders.
Grant Management:

• Oversee financial aspects of grant management, including budget preparation, monitoring, and reporting.
• Ensure compliance with donor requirements and financial regulations.
• Collaborate with programme managers to track and report on grant expenditures.
Stakeholder Collaboration:

• Act as a financial advisor to programme managers and other stakeholders.
• Facilitate cross-functional collaboration to support financial planning and resource allocation.
• Communicate financial information effectively to non-financial stakeholders.
Risk Management and Compliance:

• Identify and mitigate financial risks associated with programmes and projects.
• Ensure adherence to internal controls and financial policies.
• Support internal and external audits and implement audit recommendations.
Process Improvement:

• Identify opportunities for improving financial processes and systems.
• Implement best practices in financial management and reporting.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement within the finance team.