Who we are: NQA is a non-governmental, non-political and non-profit organization. NQA is dedicated to the advancement of education and health in remote and neglected regions of Afghanistan, with a specific focus on and commitment towards women and girls.

Our vision: an educated, healthy and balanced society in which women and men lead together social, cultural and economic changes in an inclusive manner that enable their children - boys and girls- to thrive.

Our mission: improve access to education and health in particular for women and girls of marginalized communities in remote areas of the country: mobilize local communities to build strong and empowered communities and foster change through sustainable development of rural Afghanistan.

NQA implements projects by Afghans, with Afghans and for Afghans. The association is committed to strengthening the dignity, self-confidence and initiative of the population in general, and of women and girls in particular.

For information on our projects, see www.nai-qala.org.

Job Description

The Finance Manager is responsible for overseeing all financial planning, management, reporting, and compliance functions for NQA Afghanistan. This position ensures transparent, efficient, and donor-compliant financial operations to safeguard the organization’s resources and support the delivery of high-quality programs. The role combines strategic financial leadership with hands-on management of systems, processes, and people. Periodic travel to project sites will be required for monitoring, training, and support.

Duties & Responsibilities

1. Financial Strategy & Planning

• Lead the preparation of the annual organizational budget in collaboration with senior leadership and program teams;
• Provide financial input for proposals, donor presentations, and funding negotiations;
• Monitor donor funding cycles and advise project managers on budget utilization, burn rates, and spending forecasts;
• Develop financial sustainability strategies aligned with NQA’s strategic goals and growth plans;
• Track and analyze key financial indicators to improve cost efficiency and organizational performance.

2. Financial Systems & Accounting

• Ensure proper implementation of financial policy in all organizational transactions and processes;
• Ensure the accurate and complete recording of financial transactions in the accounting system and performing of the monthly reconciliation of accounts;
• Oversee the setup and maintenance of analytical accounts aligned with NQA’s chart of accounts and donor requirements, ensuring accuracy through delegated staff;
• Ensure timely and compliant processing of payroll, payments, and procurement in coordination with relevant departments;
• Ensure proper documentation and filing of all financial records, both physical and digital.

3. Banking & Cash Management

• Manage and maintain bank accounts, monitor cash flow, and ensure liquidity for operational needs;
• Oversee petty cash management and reconciliation in line with policy;
• Review the fund transfer requests, ensure compliance with NQA policies and availability of funds, and coordinate with the NQA President for the final authorization and implement other internal controls to safeguard assets;
• Coordinate with senior management to forecast cash requirements for programs and operations.

4. Financial Reporting & Analysis

• Prepare accurate and timely financial reports for internal management, donors, and government entities (including the Ministry of Economy);
• Ensure reports are consistent with program deliverables and donor requirements;
• Conduct financial analysis to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.

5. Compliance, Tax & Audit

• Ensure adherence to NQA policies, donor regulations, and Afghan laws (including taxation, labor, and registration requirements);
• Ensure the timely filing and payment of the applicable taxes and obtaining of tax exemption letter and tax clearance letter;
• Coordinate internal and external audits, ensure timely provision of required documentation, address audit findings, and facilitate necessary government clearances;
• Maintain strong internal control systems to prevent mismanagement or fraud.

6. Team Leadership & Capacity Building

• Supervise and mentor the finance team, ensuring clear roles, responsibilities, and effective workload distribution;
• Conduct performance appraisals and address staff concerns promptly;
• Identify capacity gaps and organize relevant training for finance and field staff;
• Promote a collaborative, respectful, and inclusive work environment that reflects NQA’s values.

7. Field Engagement & Operational Support

• Train project teams on budgeting, financial procedures, and compliance requirements;
• Provide on-site support to field offices and partners as needed;
• Gather feedback from staff and partners to improve financial processes.

8. Strategic Support to Management

• Provide financial insights to guide organizational decision-making;
• Prepare progress updates for senior leadership and escalate critical issues;
• Collaborate with other departments to integrate financial management into overall operations.

Job Requirements

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (Master’s degree or professional certification such as ACCA or CPA preferred);

• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in accounting and finance (with a minimum 2 years of experience in a managerial role), preferably with NGOs or donor-funded projects;
• Proven track record in managing finances for internationally funded projects (e.g., USAID, FCDO, UN agencies, ECHO);
• Demonstrated experience in budget development, donor compliance, financial reporting, and audit management.

Skills & Competencies

• Proficiency in accounting software (Odoo, QuickBooks, or similar);
• Strong knowledge of Afghan tax laws, NGO compliance requirements, and donor financial regulations;
• Expertise in internal controls, financial policies, and audit procedures;
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills;
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and teamworking skills;
• Fluency in English and Dari (spoken and written) required; knowledge of Pashto is an asset.

NQA is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or disability status.

Please submit your application by completing the online form at the following link:

https://forms.gle/pz6n4YYp8ZqgpwNz9

Note: Applications received after closing date will not be considered.