Job Title
Sr. Finance Officer (Audit & Compliance) - Damascus
To work for
Islamic relief Worldwide - Syria Office
Field of Work
Finances/Accountancy
Minimum Education Level
Bachelor/ License Degree
Responsibilities
JOB SUMMARY:
Reporting to the Finance Coordinator, the Sr. Finance Officer (Audit & Compliance) ensures the accuracy and completeness of financial records, manages audit processes, and provides technical expertise on compliance, internal controls, and financial policies. The role is responsible for preparing financial statements, audit files, and confirmations, ensuring the organization meets both local regulatory and donor requirements.
Functional Responsibilities & Tasks
Audit & Compliance
Lead and coordinate all annual and project-specific audits with internal and external auditors.
Prepare and maintain comprehensive audit files to ensure readiness for the audit process.
Review all accounts prior to audits, identify discrepancies, perform reconciliations, and make necessary corrections and adjustments, including obtaining confirmations from external parties.
Ensure compliance with local Syrian laws, taxation, and government regulations.
Monitor adherence to organizational financial policies and procedures, recommending improvements as needed.
Support the development and implementation of internal control systems and audit recommendations.
Coordinate with contracted audit firms and provide all required documentation and clarification.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of local tax regulations, NGO accounting standards, and donor requirements.
Financial Statements & Audit Preparation
Prepare complete financial statements, including Balance Sheet, Income & Expenditure, Cash Flow, Statement of Changes in Equity, and other required schedules.
Ensure financial statements comply with Syrian regulatory requirements and international NGO accounting standards.
Conduct thorough pre-audit reviews of all financial data to ensure accuracy, completeness, and audit readiness.
Verify that all journal entries, reconciliations, and accounting records are accurate before submission for audit.
Policies, Procedures & Internal Controls
Review and update financial policies and procedures to strengthen internal control systems.
Ensure consistent application of accounting policies across all projects and offices.
Provide guidance to finance staff on compliance, accounting standards, and audit-related requirements.
Conduct periodic internal control reviews and follow up on audit recommendations to ensure implementation.
Qualifications
Qualifications & Skills
University degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
Professional qualification: Syrian LCPA; or equivalent preferred.
Minimum 5 years of relevant finance experience, including working with reputable audit firms; NGO experience preferred.
Extensive experience in preparing financial statements and audit files for NGOs.
Deep knowledge of Syrian regulations, taxation, government requirements, and NGO accounting practices.
Strong understanding of internal controls, audit processes, and compliance requirements.
Preferably experienced with accounting software such as Microsoft Dynamics AX, Unit4 or similar systems; proficient in Microsoft Office (especially Excel).
High attention to detail, analytical skills, and problem-solving ability.
Ability to work independently, manage deadlines, and maintain confidentiality.
Strong command of English (written and spoken).
Desirable:
Experience in operation, reporting and budgeting is a strong asset.
Knowledge of the Syrian financial and NGO regulatory environment.
Familiarity with project cycle management and financial monitoring.
Personal Attributes
Proactive, detail-oriented, and thorough in reviewing financial records.
Strong ethical standards and commitment to compliance.
Ability to work collaboratively with finance and other department teams.
Honest, trustworthy, and committed to integrity and transparency.
Analytical thinker with strong problem-solving and organizational skills.
Able to handle multiple priorities with effective time management.
Proactive, flexible, and able to work both independently and collaboratively.
Demonstrates cultural awareness, respect, and sensitivity.
Committed to Islamic Relief Worldwide’s mission, vision, and values.
Demonstrates strong team-building and supervisory abilities.
VII. Protection and Safeguarding Awareness
Awareness of child protection principles and safeguarding of vulnerable populations.
Knowledge of institutional safeguarding frameworks and policies, including Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA).
Participation in protection-related trainings and familiarity with reporting mechanisms for misconduct or violations.
Specific Vacancy Requirements
Please note: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis due to the urgency of this hire. We therefore encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as early as possible, as the position may be filled prior to the official closing date of the advertisement. Automated classification completed.
Salary and Benefits
As per our salary scale
About us
Islamic Relief Worldwide is registered, voluntary and nonprofit relief organization.
As an independent humanitarian and development organization, Islamic Relief has been serving humanity since 1984. With an active presence in over 40 countries across the globe, we strive to make the world a better and fairer place for the three billion people still living in poverty.
Inspired by our Islamic faith, we envisage a caring world where communities are empowered, social obligations are fulfilled and people respond as one to the suffering of others.
Required employees number
1