Position: Regional Budget and Financial Management Advisor, East Africa, Madagascar and Western Indian Ocean
Reports to: Regional Business Manager (RBM)
Positions Managed: N/A
Location: Africa Regional Hub-Kigali, Rwanda
Country Program/Sector: N/A
Position Type: Full-time
Scope/Capacity: Regional
Coordinates with: East Africa Regional team, Country Finance Directors
About Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS):
WCS stands for wildlife and wild places. As the world’s premier wildlife conservation organisation, WCS has a long track record of achieving innovative, impactful results on a scale. We run programs spanning the entire ocean and more than 3 million biologically critical square miles in nearly 60 countries. We build on a unique foundation: Our reach is global; we discover through best-in-class science; we protect through on-the-ground work with local and indigenous people; we inspire through our world-class zoos, aquariums, and education programs; and we leverage our resources through partnerships and powerful policy influence. Our 4,000 diverse, passionately committed team members in New York City and around the world work collectively to achieve our conservation mission.
Program Overview:
EAMWIO Region is one of the largest of WCS’s 13 Global Regional Programs; it spans Mozambique, Madagascar, Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya.
Job Summary:
The Regional Budget & Financial Management Advisor is responsible for leading budget management, financial monitoring, and analysis in support of WCS’s East Africa, Madagascar & Western Indian Ocean (EAMWIO) regional strategy. The position ensures effective use of financial resources, timely and accurate financial information, and strong budget planning to guide decision-making. The Advisor works closely with the Regional Business Manager, Regional Controller, and Country Finance Directors, providing technical leadership, forecasting, and hands-on support to country programs as needed. The role also provides surge and temporary coverage during staffing gaps, supports audit follow-up, and contributes to strengthening financial systems and procedures across the region.
Internal Qualification Requirements
Minimum Requirements and Job Skills:
Master’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field;
Minimum 5 years’ experience managing large, multi-donor budgets for international NGOs.
Strong financial analysis, budgeting, and forecasting skills; advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
Experience with financial systems and internal controls; ability to strengthen processes and support compliance.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with proven success working in diverse and multicultural environments.
Fluent in professional English; French language skills are a strong plus.
Close attention to detail, integrity, and commitment to strong financial stewardship and WCS’s mission.
Additional requirements:
Periodic need to work overlapping hours with teams located in different time zones
Travel within the region, including to remote locations
