Director of Finance & Administration

About the role

The Director of Finance & Administration will lead the finance and support functions of an international NGO operating in Zambia. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer and sitting on the Senior Management Team, the role is pivotal for ensuring financial sustainability, compliance with UK charity and Zambian law, and providing timely information for strategic decisions.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement financial strategies that align with organisational priorities and long‑term resilience.
• Prepare cash‑flow, reserves forecasts and model financial implications of new programmes, partnerships and social‑enterprise activities.
• Oversee accounting, regulatory, banking and audit requirements for both UK and Zambian entities.
• Lead budgeting, forecasting, long‑term planning (3‑5 years) and regular re‑forecasting, identifying early‑warning indicators.
• Produce monthly management accounts, project expenditure reports and donor reporting in collaboration with fundraising.
• Manage the organisational risk register, addressing currency risk, fraud, cyber‑security and staff retention.
• Support the Finance and Audit Committee, preparing financial papers and presenting at meetings.
• Lead, mentor and develop the finance team, ensuring succession planning and high performance.
• Ensure financial and IT systems in the UK and Zambia are fit for purpose and efficient.

Required profile

• Senior‑level leader with extensive experience in finance and administration within international NGOs or charities.
• Strong knowledge of UK charity law and Zambian financial regulations.
• Proven ability to provide strategic financial advice to senior leadership and trustees.
• Experience managing multi‑currency environments and complex risk portfolios.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Required skills