Finance and Operations Specialist at Village Solar

Vacancy: Finance and Operations Specialist (Part-Time)

About Village Solar

Village Solar is a solar energy distribution and entrepreneurship initiative that empowers women in rural Malawi by creating income-generating opportunities and providing access to clean energy solutions. The program equips women with the skills and tools they need to distribute affordable solar products to families without reliable electricity, directly addressing energy challenges in underserved rural areas.

Role Description

Village Solar is seeking a part-time Finance and Operations Specialist to join our growing team in Lilongwe. This role is essential in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the organization’s financial and operational processes, supporting both day-to-day activities and long-term strategic goals. You will play a key role in managing financial records, analyzing financial data, and preparing financial statements to support organizational decision-making.

As the Finance and Operations Specialist, you will oversee accounting processes, ensure compliance with local tax regulations, and manage stakeholder communication related to financial matters. You will work closely with the management team to set up and maintain financial systems that meet the organization’s needs as it grows, while providing strategic recommendations to improve efficiency and sustainability.

This position requires a minimum commitment of 15 hours per week with the flexibility to work remotely. The ideal candidate will be proactive, detail-oriented, and able to handle multiple tasks independently. You will need to have access to a computer, a reliable internet connection, and the ability to actively participate in virtual meetings with the team and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate financial records, documenting all transactions, receipts, and payments.
• Prepare financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow reports, for both internal and external use.
• Analyze financial data and provide insights to improve performance and support decision-making.
• Set up and maintain financial systems, such as creating a customized chart of accounts using tools like Excel, Google Sheets, or accounting software like QuickBooks.
• Assist in preparing annual budgets and financial forecasts, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Ensure compliance with local tax regulations, handling tax filings and related matters.
• Monitor and manage grant and donated funds, ensuring compliance with agreements and accurate reporting.
• Identify opportunities to streamline operational processes, contributing to efficiency improvements.
• Collaborate with the team to align operational systems with financial objectives, ensuring smooth organizational operations.
• Support day-to-day operations, assisting with tasks and resource allocation as needed.
• Communicate financial and operational updates to stakeholders, ensuring transparency and informed decision-making.
• Provide financial guidance and strategic recommendations to the management team.

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field (preferred).
• Diploma in Accounting or Finance (acceptable with significant relevant experience).
• Professional accounting certifications such as ACCA, CIMA, CPA, or equivalent are a plus.

Skills & Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in finance, accounting, or operations management.
• Experience with accounting tools and processes.
• Knowledge of Malawi tax regulations and grant management.
• Familiarity with nonprofit or social enterprise financial management is an advantage.
• Proficiency in Excel, Google Sheets, and accounting software like QuickBooks.

Key Qualities:

• A “can do” attitude with an entrepreneurial mindset.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently.
• Flexibility to adapt to the dynamic environment of a startup.
• A strong work ethic, demonstrating commitment to achieving goals and meeting deadlines.

Method Of Application

To apply, please complete the Google Form using the link provided below. Ensure that all required fields are filled out with your personal details. You will need to provide the contact information for 3 referees, including their full name, address, phone number, and email. Please upload your resume and cover letter as a single file (in either PDF or Word format) in the designated section.

You can access the form here: https://forms.gle/9b4VdUQG3sAwJdDy8

Application Deadline: 28th December 2024. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Interviews will be conducted online between 6th January and 9th January 2025.

Thank you for your interest in the position!