Vacancy Announcement: Position of Head (Finance & Administration)

Vacancy Announcement: Position of Head (Finance & Administration)

Application deadline : 18:00 hrs.(IST) April 15th, 2024.

The Indo-U.S. Science and Technology Forum (IUSSTF) (https://www.iusstf.org) is an autonomous bilateral organization established in 2000 by the governments of the United States of America and India through an inter-governmental agreement. IUSSTF’s vision is to foster “Excellence in Science, Technology and Innovation space through collaborative initiatives between India and the United States of America.”

IUSSTF manages a diverse portfolio of activities ranging from scientific networks, research in basic and applied sciences, visitation programs, and innovation/entrepreneurship programs. IUSSTF is a lean organization consisting of a Core Science and Program Team ably supported by a Finance, Accounts and Administrative Unit. IUSSTF invites applications for the position of Head (Finance & Administration) to lead the Finance, Accounts and Administrative Unit. The ideal candidate for this position would be a self-driven individual and should possess a strong background in finance & accounting, coupled with analytical & administrative skills and should be able to contribute to the Organization’s strategic goals and aspirations. This individual would report directly to the Executive Director, IUSSTF.

Essential Qualifications: Indian or U.S. National with a Postgraduate degree with a specialization in Finance or Project and Grant Management with a Professional Degree (CA/MBA/CS/CMA) from a reputed educational institution.

Essential Experience: Minimum work experience of 15 years in financial, administrative & HR capacity in a supervisory position in the not-for-profit sector / NGOs/ foundations/ autonomous/govt or private institutions.

Required Competencies: 

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
  • Proficient in financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting. An in-depth understanding of Government of India rules/regulations and policies.
  • Familiarity with Accounting Standards and Systems and understanding of scientific organisations grant making processes.
  • Experience in implementing human resource policies as well as managing staff wellness and performance reviews.
  • Ability to synthesize data, develop visual and graphical representations for reports and presentations.
  • Experience in project and grant management & monitoring and the ability to interface between the Scientific/Programmatic operation and the Finance/Accounts team.
  • Excellent organizational and administrative abilities to oversee day-to-day operations.
  • Good interpersonal skills, leadership qualities and the ability to guide and mentor team members.

 

Desirable: 

  • Experience in fund-raising through private sector/philanthropic/Corporate Social Responsibility resources.
  • Experience in dealing with International cooperation activities in organizations/Government bodies.
  • Familiarity with US Government policies and financial requirements.

 

Roles and Responsibilities: 

  • Leading the Finance, Accounts, and Administrative functions;
  • Prepare and analyze financial statements, providing insights and recommendations to support strategic decision-making.
  • Providing oversight for the financial reporting process, working with the Internal Auditor & Statutory Auditors and ensure compliance with financial regulations.;
  • Manage budgeting and forecasting processes, collaborating with various departments to ensure accurate and realistic financial plans.
  • Assist ED in Fundraising;
  • Ensuring smooth and efficient implementation of policies for Internal Controls and Compliance with all applicable regulatory & legal requirements;
  • Implementing and Reviewing HR policies;
  • Financial Planning and preparation of reports for the Financial Review Committee and the IUSSTF Boards;
  • Serving as the liaison between IUSSTF and Funding Agencies, Foundations etc;
  • Oversee administrative functions, including facilities management, and general office operations.
  • Contract Management for procurement of goods and services and inventory management;
  • Supervise day-to-day accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll activities.
  • Contribute to short and long term organizational planning and strategy as a senior leader of the team.
  • Mentor and develop finance and admin staff, fostering a high-performance and collaborative work environment.
  • Stay informed about changes in accounting standards, tax regulations, and industry best practices, ensuring continuous improvement in financial processes.
  • Communicate financial information and insights to senior management and other stakeholders in a clear and concise manner.
  • Act as a key point of contact for financial inquiries and provide guidance to internal teams on financial matters.

 

Age Limit: The age of the candidate should not be more than 55 years at the time of application.

Terms of Contract: The position is contractual in nature and would be renewed every three years, unless summarily terminated due to reasons of poor performance, indiscipline/insubordination, the financial health of the organization or any other reason.

Probation: The employee shall be on probation for a minimum period of one year before confirmation. The confirmation may be delayed in case the employee’s performance is not up to the desired standards, in which case the Executive Director may opt to work with the employee to develop an action plan. During the probation, the employee shall be entitled to normal compensation offered. In case the employee does not improve his/her performance even during the extended period of probation, he/she shall be terminated by giving the requisite notice.

Remuneration: The remuneration package will be on a CTC basis commensurate with the qualifications, skills, experience, merit, aptitude, and potential of the candidate to carry out the organization's objectives. The CTC package will be in the starting range of Rs. 18-20 lacs per annum plus other benefits as per the organization’s norms/regulations. A higher salary in the specified grade range may be considered for exceptional candidates as per the discretion of the recruitment & selection committee constituted for the selection of the position.

To apply: Please apply only if you fulfil all the “Essential Qualifications & Experience” as described for the position. To apply, please send an email to recruitments@iusstf.org with the following documents:

  • Application in the prescribed format. (application form link)
  • Brief CV (limit 2 pages only).
  • A 1-page narrative elaborating why you think you would be the ideal candidate for this position with reference to the “Key competencies” and “Roles and Responsibilities” described above.

 

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further processing. IUSSTF reserves the right not to hire anyone or re-advertise if a person with suitable qualifications is not found. All recruitments will be made purely based on the qualifications, experience, merit, and aptitude of the candidate. IUSSTF promotes diversity at the workplace and provides equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of race, ancestry, colour, ethnic origin, language, citizenship, disability, creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, age or marital status.