Associate Consultant, Financial System Strengthening
Organizational Context
UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. We are committed, passionate, and proud of what we do for as long as we are needed. Promoting the rights of every child is not just a job – it is a calling.
Job Purpose
The Financial System Strengthening (FSS) Associate Consultant will play a crucial role in enhancing financial management capabilities within Nigeria's primary healthcare system. This consultancy focuses on strengthening accounting software implementation, data migration, and delivering essential financial management training to personnel at state, LGA, and ward levels. The consultant will be responsible for preparing progress reports, establishing knowledge systems for lessons learned, and conducting grant performance reviews and variance analyses. This role is vital for ensuring timely corrective actions and supporting the overall financial health and efficiency of health programs, ultimately contributing to the realization of children's rights to health.
Responsibilities
1. Conduct state-level Training of Trainers (ToT) on accounting software to build implementation capacity among key personnel. 2. Lead the accounting software rollout and facilitate data migration across all participating entities to ensure seamless transition and data integrity. 3. Deliver bi-monthly financial management training sessions for PHCDA accountants at state, Local Government Area (LGA), and ward levels, focusing on best practices and software utilization. 4. Prepare comprehensive quarterly FMSS progress reports detailing achievements, identified risks, ongoing challenges, and actionable recommendations for improvement. 5. Establish robust financial management knowledge systems to effectively capture, document, and share lessons learned and best practices across the program. 6. Conduct quarterly grant performance reviews and detailed variance analyses to identify discrepancies and support timely corrective actions. 7. Undertake quarterly sample assessments in five selected LGAs in collaboration with the PHCDA Internal Audit and Finance team to ensure compliance and identify areas for support.
Work Experience
A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in financial management, accounting, financial controls, and partnership management is required. Demonstrated experience supporting donor-funded health programs, particularly EU or similar, is essential. Experience working with government institutions and sub-national entities, such as State Primary Health Care Development Agencies (SPHCDAs), is advantageous.
Skills
Financial management, Budgeting, Financial reporting, Internal controls, Donor compliance, Grant management, Public financial management systems, Analytical skills, Capacity building, Stakeholder engagement, Report writing, Presentation skills