Director of Operations and Finance Creative Associates International

Overview
Position Location: Lusaka, Zambia

Background: Creative Associates International is a fast-growing, social impact company specializing in education, economic growth, democratic transitions, and stabilization in post-conflict environments. Based in Chevy Chase, Maryland, this global development organization has a field presence is more than 25 countries and a strong client portfolio of that includes the U.S. Agency for International Development and the State Department. Since its founding in 1977 by four enterprising women, Creative has earned a solid reputation among its clients and is well-regarded by competitors and partners alike.

Position Summary: Creative Associates seeks a Director of Operations and Finance to provide overall financial management and administrative oversight to the anticipated USAID-funded Zambia Foundational Learning Activity, which will support the delivery of foundational learning in the early grades to improve learning outcomes. Specifically, the project will seek to scale the Primary Literacy Program (PLP), support the Ministry of Education to institutionalize PLP and early learning reforms, provide technical assistance to direct Government-to-Government Education Sector Assistance, and enhance the delivery of remedial and accelerated education. The Director of Operations and Finance will report to the Chief of Party.

Primary Responsibilities:

Ensure streamlined operations systems and financial management procedures in line with Creative and donor rules and regulations.
Ensure that the operational policies, including field operations management guide inventory, fleet management, and IT are in place, compliant with project and donor policies, and implemented effectively.
Oversee the procurement of goods and services for the office per Creative’s policy.
Ensure that the project meets all USAID contractual requirements and ensure compliance with USAID policies and regulations.
Provide financial oversight, including the maintenance and monitoring of the project budget.
Manage financial systems, files, and maintain Creative’s online accounting system.
Liaise between Creative Associates’ field and headquarters offices regarding all program financial matters and all internal or external audit requests, as needed.
Participate in ongoing analysis, forecasting and review of project expenses.
Manages and oversees staff responsible for arranging travel and logistics for staff and oversees organization of workshops.
Oversee the management of project’s assets, safeguarding of inventory and IT equipment, transport and vehicle management and maintenance of office premises.
Prepare monthly field expense reports and report monthly expenses to HQ Offices.
Responsible for program compliance with USG rules and regulations, and Creative policies and procedures.
Provide operational and financial training and guidance to project staff, grantees, local partners, and beneficiaries, as needed.
Respond to requests from USAID and supervisors as needed.
Travel as needed to ensure smooth and harmonized operations and financial processes, providing management support as necessary.

Qualifications

Required Skills & Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in project management, business management, administration, accounting, financial management, or related field. Master’s degree preferred.
Minimum of 6 years of relevant work experience, including at least 4 years of supervisory experience.
Experience with USAID project finances and budgeting (preferred) or similar work for other donors/U.S. Government agencies.
Knowledge of operating procedures and security considerations in complex environments.
Previous experience working with USAID strongly desired, or similar work for other donors/U.S. Government agencies.
Demonstrated leadership skills and experience working in multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams.
Experience working in the Zambia region highly preferred.
Fluency in English required.