IPSAS Adoption & Financial Systems Strengthening Consultant

About the Job
The IPSAS Adoption & Financial Systems Strengthening Consultant will play a pivotal role in enhancing financial reporting and systems at Empathy for Life Integrated Development Association. This consultancy position is aimed at individuals with 5-8 years of senior experience in accounting and finance, focusing on the integration of IPSAS standards within nonprofit financial frameworks. The consultant will work from the Addis Ababa office, collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure robust financial practices and compliance with international standards.

Key Responsibilities

1. Adoption of IPSAS

Develop an inception report based on the TOR, outlining a methodology for adopting and implementing IPSAS, including plans and strategies with clear deliverables, indicators, resources, and tools.
Conduct a gap analysis and create a roadmap for IPSAS implementation based on benchmarking exercises.
Develop a comprehensive roadmap with specific actions, timelines, and responsible parties.
Analyze prerequisites for long-term IPSAS adoption and recommend measures for preparation.

 

2. Updating the Financial and Accounting Procedures Manual
Create an inception report that outlines a methodology for updating sections of the existing Financial Manual to standardize and make it more comprehensive. This will involve analyzing the existing financial management system and discussing updates with finance unit post-IPSAS adoption.
Guide and conduct a context analysis of the Financial Management System and propose improvement strategies.
Hold consultative meetings with ELiDA staff to gather suggestions for updates.
Analyze the gathered information and draft the updated manual.
Organize a validation session to confirm the proposed updates.
Submit a final report that incorporates all feedback.

3. IPSAS Implementation
Revise the ELiDA chart of accounts.
Update monthly, quarterly, and yearly financial reporting formats.
Provide hands-on support (coaching and mentoring) for the Peach Tree Accounting system.
Assist ELiDA staff in preparing IPSAS-compliant annual financial statements for 2023-2025 to test the proper functioning of IPSAS.

4. Training on IPSAS Implementation
Develop a training inception report based on the TOR.
Assess the skills within the finance management and accounting unit.
Create a training module addressing gaps in knowledge on the theory, principles, and implementation of IPSAS.
Conduct training for relevant ELiDA staff.
Distribute training/reference materials to participants and the organization.
Conduct a post-implementation assessment to ensure successful IPSAS adoption.
Key Deliverables

At the conclusion of the assignment, the following deliverables are expected:

An inception report detailing the consultant’s approach to updating the Financial and Accounting Procedures Manual.
An organized workshop for discussing the draft manual and assessing training needs.
A draft of the Finance and Accounting Procedures Manual and training modules on IPSAS adoption.
A workshop to review and validate draft outputs.
Assistance for ELiDA staff in preparing IPSAS-compliant annual financial statements for 2023-2025.
Training for selected staff on IPSAS and standard training/reference materials.
Incorporation of feedback from the review process into a final updated Finance and Accounting Manual.
Ongoing supports until the financial statements are finalized.
About You
Required Skills:

A Master’s degree in financial law, accounting, or business administration, with over five years of relevant experience, preferably within the IGAD region.
IPSAS professional qualifications from ACCA or a similar recognized body.
Proven experience in developing high-quality Financial Management and Accounting policy manuals for regional or international institutions.
Significant experience in implementing IPSAS and/or IFRS in NGOs for a minimum of five years.
Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to lead and work independently.
Experience in assessing skills gaps and designing tailored training programs.
Experience in creating training manuals and delivering training for finance management staff.
A renewed practicing certificate from the Accounting and Auditing Board of Ethiopia (AABE).
Desired Skills:

Proven experience with accounting software such as Peachtree and QuickBooks.
Ability to develop financial models specific to nonprofit sustainability.
Experience in conducting workshops and training sessions for financial systems.
Strong analytical skills to evaluate financial performance and trends.
Knowledge of best practices in nonprofit financial management and reporting.
Terms and Conditions

ELiDA reserves the right to reject any and all bids and is not obligated to accept any proposal. All information provided must be treated as confidential and inappropriate disclosures may lead to remedies sought by ELiDA.

Applicants must disclose any actual or potential conflicts of interest, which may include personal relationships with ELiDA staff or involvement with third parties associated with the project, and could result in the disqualification of proposals.

Acceptance of a proposal does not imply acceptance of its terms and conditions; ELiDA retains the option to negotiate final terms.
Requirement Skill

Financial reporting

Accounting Principles (GAAP), IFRS and ERP

Finance,
Desired Skill

Financial reporting

Experience in nonprofit financial modeling and sustainability planning

Proven experience using accounting software such as Peachtree, QuickBooks, or other ERP systems

Finance,
How To Apply
Interested and qualified consultants are invited to submit the following documents:

Technical and Financial Proposal (methodology, work plan, and detailed budget)
Profiles and CVs of key personnel
Evidence of IPSAS/IFRS experience and competency
AABE certification
Valid business license, VAT registration, and TIN certificate