Finance Officer

The Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS) site aims to determine and track the causes of under-five mortality and stillbirths through epidemiologic surveillance, including reporting within 24 hours, clinical sampling, and use of advanced laboratory testing and diagnostics across a network of international sites. The area selected for CHAMPS in Sierra Leone is Bombali Sebora chiefdom in Bombali district.

The Minimal Invasive Tissue Sampling (MITS) procedure used by CHAMPS was developed to reduce the uncertainty regarding causes of death. The data collected from the CHAMPS Sierra Leone site will be added to those from the other eight (8) sites and will help reduce child deaths in LMICs by providing detailed evidence on the cause of death to influence policy of donors and stakeholders.

Beginning from the 2025/26 financial year, The Africa Research Collaborative (The ARC), a local NGO in Sierra Leone, has been tasked to support the direct implementation of the CHAMPS programme in Sierra Leone, with initial support from Deloitte, Ghana. As a dedicated group of African researchers, the ARC aims to generate robust local evidence that informs national policies, health guidelines, and service delivery practices. We work collaboratively with governments and health partners to ensure that our research findings lead to culturally appropriate and sustainable solutions. With a long-term, infinite mindset, we manage resources wisely to create an enduring platform that empowers individuals and communities to thrive.

The ARC is seeking dedicated employees who are humble, hungry and (people-)smart, and who are deadly committed to our collective mission.

More information about the CHAMPS project can be found at https://CHAMPShealth.org/ and more about the ARC at www.theARChealth.org

Our positions could be placed in any of our offices in Makeni, Bo or Freetown.

By providing accurate financial reporting, maintaining internal controls, and supporting efficient field, surveillance and lab operations, the department plays a key role in enabling ARC teams to carry out timely and reliable data collection, diagnostics, and stakeholder engagement. Its work ensures that resources are used effectively and transparently to support ARC mission to identify and address causes of child mortality.

·         Reconcile bank statements and other financial records.

·         Assist with budget monitoring and variance analysis.

·         Review and ensure staff advances are liquidated in line with the ARC policy on advances.

·         Support the Finance and Grants Manager with year-end closing procedures and audit preparation.

·         Maintain an accurate record of assets, liabilities, income, and expenses.

·         Support the Finance and Grants Manager in ensuring that financial and operational policies and procedures are adhered to and Implemented in a standardized manner across all ARC Implementation sites

·         Ensure all petty cash transactions are supported with appropriate documentation and approved requisitions.

·         Conduct regular petty cash reconciliations and replenish funds as required.

·         Record petty cash expenses promptly and accurately in the accounting system.

·         Make payments to participants and volunteers of project activities in cash or via mobile money, following the financial manual policy on cash.

·         Liaise with HR to ensure timely and accurate payroll processing.

·         Ensure statutory deductions (e.g., taxes, social security) are properly accounted for and remitted on time.

·         Maintain strict confidentiality regarding employee salary information.

·         Maintain organized and up-to-date financial files both in hard copy and electronically.

·         Support procurement processes by verifying invoices and ensuring compliance with financial procedures.

·         Liaise with vendors and service providers for financial-related matters.

·         Assist in organizing financial documentation for audits and reviews.

·         Execute any other tasks that may be assigned to him/her as part of day-to-day operations.

·         Assist in implementing health and safety regulations across ARC offices and field sites.

·         Provide operational support during audits, asset reviews, and compliance checks.

·         Ad-Hoc – handle on any other tasks, which may be assigned from time to time by the Finance and Grant Manager with the general thrust of this job description

·         Promote The ARC’s speak up culture in order to protect the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.

·         Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.

·         At least 2–3 years of experience in a similar finance role.

·         Proficient in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Sage) and Microsoft Excel.

·         Strong numerical and analytical skills.

·         High level of accuracy and attention to detail.

·         Good organizational and time management skills.

·         Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

·         Ability to handle confidential information with integrity.