The Horn Center for Democracy (HCD) is an independent, not-for-profit policy advocacy and research institution based in Addis Ababa. The Center’s primary objective is to promote and strengthen the culture of democracy, good governance, and inclusive citizen engagement across the Horn of Africa (HoA) countries.

As a think-and-do tank, HCD not only conducts research but also implements programs aimed at advancing policy advocacy, capacity building, and fostering cooperation and networking among national and regional civil society organizations (CSOs), think tanks engaged in democracy, good governance, peace and security, and human rights at both regional and national levels, as well as regional institutions such as IGAD.

To support effective delivery of its research and programs and to strengthen institutional capacity, HCD is seeking to hire qualified professionals for following position. 

For more information on our research products and organizational work, please visit our website at www.horn-center.org. 

The Horn Center for Democracy (HCD) invites qualified and motivated applicants to apply for the following positions:

Duty Station: Addis Ababa
Employment Type: Full-time

Reports to: Finance and Operation Director

Type of Contract: One-year renewable contract based on performance and funding availability (with a two-month probation period)

HCD is seeking an experienced, reliable, and highly analytical Senior Finance Officer to support and strengthen the organization’s financial management systems, donor compliance, and overall operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will have strong technical knowledge in NGO finance, budgeting, donor reporting, and financial controls, with the ability to manage multiple projects across the Horn of Africa region.

The Senior Finance Officer will play a key role in ensuring the accuracy, transparency, and integrity of HCD’s financial operations.

Key Responsibilities

1. Financial Management & Reporting (Approx. 40%)

• Prepare accurate and timely financial reports for management and donors in compliance with grant agreements.

• Maintain and update financial records, ledgers, and journals in accordance with international accounting standards and HCD policies.

• Ensure proper documentation, filing, and reconciliation of all financial transactions.

• Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial closing process.

• Support the preparation and review of annual organizational budgets and project-specific budgets.

2. Budgeting, Grants & Compliance (Approx. 25%)

• Monitor budget performance, track expenditures, and provide variance analysis with recommendations.

• Ensure compliance with donor rules, audit requirements, and internal financial policies.

• Support program teams in developing costed proposals and budget narratives.

• Liaise with donors, auditors, and financial partners, ensuring all compliance requirements are met.

3. Internal Controls & Audit Support (Approx. 20%)

• Strengthen internal financial control systems to reduce risk and enhance accountability.

• Conduct periodic internal reviews and spot checks to ensure proper use of funds.

• Facilitate internal and external audits by preparing schedules, documentation, and responses.

• Ensure proper cash management, bank reconciliations, and adherence to procurement and expense procedures.

4. Systems Development & Capacity Strengthening (Approx. 15%)

• Contribute to the improvement of finance systems, tools, templates, and digital processes.

• Provide coaching and support to project and administrative staff on financial procedures.

• Maintain updated financial policies and ensure organization-wide compliance.

• Perform additional finance-related tasks assigned by the Finance & Operations Director or Executive Director.

Job Requirements

Essential

• MSc or BA degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field.

• Minimum 8 years of progressively responsible experience in NGO finance, preferably within governance, democracy, or humanitarian sectors.

• Strong proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Odoo, Peachtree, or similar ERP systems).

• Advanced skills in Excel, financial modeling, and budget analysis.

• Excellent knowledge of IPSAS, IFRS, and donor financial requirements (EU, USAID, UN agencies, etc.).

• Strong report writing skills and ability to produce clear financial presentations.

• Excellent communication skills in English; knowledge of regional languages is an asset.

Competencies

• High attention to detail with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet tight deadlines.

• Strong ethical standards, integrity, and commitment to transparency.

• Ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-financial staff.

• Team player with flexibility and a proactive attitude.

How To Apply

Application Procedure

Interested applicants should submit the following combined into one PDF file:

A cover letter clearly outlining your relevant experience and why you are interested in supporting HCD's mission

CV outlining your qualifications and professional history.  including the email and telephone contacts of at least three (3) professional references.

Please send all completed applications to Yohannes.Aklog@horn-center.org , clearly indicating the title of the position you are applying for in the email subject line.

Applications should be submitted to HCD no later than November 25, 2025.

For any additional information, please contact us through: Email: info@horn-center.org

HCD is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from qualified women and individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. We thank you for your interest and look forward to receiving your application.