Director of Regional Finance for Africa

D

Director of Regional Finance for Africa

Jobs Kenya

Full Time

Nairobi

Nairobi

Deadline:

30 November 2026

Posted

September 1, 2026

The Position

The Regional Finance Director is an integral part of the International Finance team and the Africa regional office, where they provide financial leadership for the regional portfolio while ensuring the fiscal oversight of initiatives spearheaded by the Africa team. This role is pivotal in driving strategic and operational initiatives within the region, guaranteeing compliance with Mercy Corps’ established policies, procedures, and donor requirements. Reporting to both the VP of International Finance and the Deputy Regional Director (DRD), Operations, the Director works in tandem with the Regional Controller to maximize the allocation and utilization of financial resources across programs and departments, enhancing overall efficiency and impact.

Responsible for executing key duties integral to the role, including but not limited to managing project timelines, coordinating team efforts, and ensuring adherence to organizational standards. Requires a minimum of three years of relevant

Experience

in a similar capacity, along with proficiency in industry-specific software and tools. The position demands strong analytical skills, exceptional communication abilities, and the capacity to work collaboratively in fast-paced environments. Additional qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in a related field, relevant certifications, and a proven track record of delivering measurable results. Duties encompass overseeing daily operations, identifying process improvements, and maintaining compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.

We are seeking a skilled professional to ensure meticulous oversight of financial operations, providing strategic guidance and comprehensive analysis to maintain fiscal integrity and compliance. The ideal candidate will monitor budgetary performance, conduct detailed financial reviews, and implement robust controls to mitigate risks and enhance efficiency.

in similar environments.

Actively acquires and applies safeguarding knowledge within their role, incorporating an understanding of safeguarding risks and preventive measures relevant to their specific responsibilities.

Upholds Mercy Corps’ core values by demonstrating unwavering respect for the dignity and well-being of both program participants and colleagues, fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment.

Promotes a culture of transparency and open dialogue within the team, empowering members to voice concerns through established reporting channels such as the Integrity Hotline and other available methods.

Oversee a team of employees, ensuring they meet performance standards and organizational goals while providing guidance, mentorship, and support to enhance productivity and professional development.

This position provides leadership and direction for the regional International Finance team, encompassing both analyst and manager positions.

The position requires a strong sense of responsibility and a commitment to fulfilling all duties with precision. Candidates must ensure all assigned tasks are completed accurately and on time, while maintaining high standards of performance. Additionally, the role demands thorough attention to detail in monitoring progress and addressing any discrepancies promptly. Effective communication and proactive problem-solving skills are essential to uphold accountability and drive successful outcomes.

Reports directly to the Vice President of International Finance as well as the Director of Regional Development for Operations in Africa.

Collaborates closely with Finance Managers and Regional Controllers within country programs, International Finance, Corporate Finance, Global Treasury, Cost & Pricing teams, as well as regional leadership in Africa.

Accountability involves ensuring adherence to commitments made to participants and stakeholders, maintaining transparent communication throughout all engagements, and delivering on promised outcomes with integrity and reliability.

Mercy Corps staff are required to uphold accountability standards, ensuring these commitments extend to program participants, community partners, stakeholders, and international relief and development guidelines. Our organization prioritizes meaningful collaboration with communities, treating them as equal partners throughout the design, monitoring, and evaluation phases of field projects.

Candidates must meet specific educational prerequisites and demonstrate relevant competencies to be considered for this role. Essential qualifications include a degree in a related field, along with a minimum of three years of hands-on

in [specific industry or function]. Additional

at the international level within a non-governmental organization is essential, with a requirement for field-level or overseas-level expertise, including prior supervisory responsibilities.

Skilled in navigating intricate and high-pressure settings, with readiness to promptly relocate to crisis-affected areas.

Strong leadership and interpersonal abilities, demonstrated through proven success in guiding and inspiring teams to achieve collective goals.

Must possess a demonstrated capacity for effective collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders while cultivating and sustaining robust professional relationships.

Demonstrates extensive expertise in overseeing financial operations and donor-funded initiatives across multiple countries.

Proficiency in U.S. government and European Union regulatory frameworks, particularly those governing government contracting, is strongly preferred.

Demonstrates unwavering dedication to the humanitarian values, guiding mission, and strategic objectives of Mercy Corps.

Fluency in both English and French is essential, while advanced skills in relevant regional language(s) are strongly preferred.

This role entails regular travel obligations, accounting for approximately 25% of the position’s responsibilities.

Required proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite applications, specifically Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Qualifications

BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA , Professional Certificate

Required

10 years

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Responsibilities

include preparing accurate financial reports, analyzing variances, and advising senior leadership on cost-saving measures and investment opportunities. Strong proficiency in financial software, exceptional analytical abilities, and a thorough understanding of regulatory standards are essential. The role demands exceptional attention to detail, effective communication skills, and the capacity to collaborate across departments to drive informed decision-making.

Partner with Finance Directors and Managers regionally, alongside the Regional Controller, to facilitate the execution of awards and oversee financial management, maintaining adherence to Mercy Corps’ established financial management best practices.

Perform regular on-site support visits to country programs in alignment with an approved scope of work.

Monitor the financial health of the regional portfolio, analyzing performance metrics to pinpoint weaknesses, strengths, risks, and untapped opportunities within the Africa portfolio. Formulate and implement targeted strategies aimed at enhancing financial management systems and operational best practices. Foster an organizational culture centered on proactive problem-solving and sustained improvement initiatives.

Monthly financial health assessments and risk identifications are presented to the Regional Senior Leadership Team and the VP of International Finance for necessary action.

We are responsible for enhancing and supervising risk management frameworks to establish stringent performance monitoring mechanisms and designing proactive mitigation measures that uphold financial integrity and ensure compliance across all international programs.

Proactively assess risks to identify potential threats and collaborate with the Regional Senior Team to create and implement effective mitigation strategies.

Develop deep expertise and remain up-to-date with the rules and regulations governing all donors, offering strategic guidance in the realm of donor compliance.

Assist in deliberations concerning financial policy matters, with a focus on maintaining and enhancing the International Finance Manual.

Awards Financial Management Support involves providing essential financial oversight and administrative assistance to ensure efficient and compliant management of awarded funds. This role entails meticulous tracking of expenditures, preparation of detailed financial reports, and adherence to regulatory guidelines and organizational policies. Candidates must possess strong analytical skills, proficiency in financial software, and a thorough understanding of accounting principles. Additionally, effective communication and organizational abilities are required to collaborate with stakeholders and maintain accurate financial records.

Provide assistance to regional and country teams throughout start-up, close out, and other key initiatives, which includes creating master budgets, drafting subaward budgets, and designing financial monitoring tools and systems for sub-recipients.

Analyze and provide support for the country program’s financial forecasting process to improve Budget vs. Actual (BVA) management efficiency and maintain precise forecasting accuracy as required.

To ensure effective implementation and monitoring of initiatives, travel to country offices and field sites across the region to offer hands-on support and supervision.

Collaborate with Business Development teams to evaluate and contribute to cost proposals as required. Conduct a comprehensive final financial review of the proposal document prior to its approval and submission to the donor.

Provide leadership and direction for regional initiatives as required.

Ensure adherence to established financial policies, internal procedures, and donor-mandated regulations for all projects overseen within the designated region.

Review audit reports and collaborate with regional controllers to assist country offices in resolving audit issues. Additionally, oversee the closure of internal and external audits and develop and monitor corrective action plans.

We provide strategic planning and support functions, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and facilitating efficient execution through comprehensive analysis and resource allocation. Our

include developing strategic initiatives, monitoring performance metrics, and identifying growth opportunities to enhance operational effectiveness. Additionally, we support cross-functional teams by offering data-driven insights, optimizing processes, and fostering collaboration to achieve long-term success.

Deliver financial insights that empower the Regional Senior Management Team to make informed business decisions aligned with Mercy Corps’ overarching Regional and Country Program strategies.

Engage actively in regional Strategic Management Team meetings, applying strategic thinking, conducting comprehensive risk analyses, and fulfilling any additional engagement

as required.

Deliver comprehensive financial assessments regarding the fiscal well-being of country programs to both the DRD operations and HQ Finance, while coordinating with regional teams and country programs to implement corrective measures and strategic support initiatives.

Collaborate in shaping and refining Country Programs, Strategic Annual Plans, and annual operating budgets through constructive feedback and active contribution.

Support the regional department’s financial resources by overseeing the annual planning and budgeting processes, as well as administering indirect and unrestricted funds throughout the fiscal year.

Translate intricate financial data into clear, actionable insights for non-financial audiences, offering expert financial guidance to the regional team to facilitate well-informed decision-making and strategic financial planning.

Work closely with the Regional Controller, regional leadership, and other Global Support teams to address and resolve financial management challenges.

We facilitate the implementation and integration of new finance procedures and strategic initiatives within the region. Additionally, we assist in the creation and evaluation of local policies.

Partner with internal teams, donors, external collaborators, and governmental bodies to facilitate seamless financial alignment and transparent communication.

Recruitment, professional development, and team leadership form the core

of this position. The role involves identifying and attracting top talent to fulfill organizational needs, while also designing and implementing training programs to enhance employee skills and competencies. Additionally, the position demands strategic oversight of team dynamics, ensuring effective collaboration and performance optimization to achieve departmental and company-wide objectives.

Facilitate the recruitment and integration of Finance leaders throughout the designated region.

Deliver ongoing leadership, mentorship, and operational guidance to the International Finance regional team—comprising analysts and managers—to establish transparent goals, foster accountability, and ensure alignment with both regional and departmental strategic objectives.

Develop the competencies of the IF regional team by implementing a comprehensive onboarding program, providing consistent feedback, offering mentorship, and creating customized development plans to enhance financial management, analytical, and business partnering capabilities.

Support the efficient organization and coordination of workloads throughout the IF regional team, fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the consistent delivery of superior support to country and regional stakeholders.

Facilitate the enhancement of financial capabilities across regional and country office teams by providing training and mentoring staff in financial management and accounting principles.

Deliver training initiatives and capacity-building programs tailored to finance and program personnel, focusing on financial management principles, relevant policies, and established procedures.

Safeguarding is a critical component of this role, encompassing the protection and well-being of individuals within our care. This position requires a steadfast commitment to maintaining a secure environment, promptly identifying and addressing any risks or concerns.

include implementing safeguarding policies, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation. The role demands vigilance, discretion, and the ability to respond effectively to disclosures or incidents, fostering a culture of safety and trust. Applicants must demonstrate a thorough understanding of safeguarding principles and prior

Requirements

encompass proficiency in [specific software/tools], strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, and exceptional communication skills. The ideal applicant will exhibit leadership qualities, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous professional development. This position demands meticulous attention to detail, the capacity to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams, and a proactive approach to overcoming challenges.

A Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or Finance is required, with a Master’s Degree, CPA certification, or an equivalent qualification strongly preferred.

A minimum of a decade of progressively responsible financial management