The British Embassy in Berlin is part of a world-wide network, representing British political, economic and consular interests overseas. The Embassy is now looking for a Finance & Budget Manager, Corporate Services, based in Berlin.
We aim to be a diverse and inclusive employer, welcoming to people of all backgrounds. The senior leadership is committed to ensuring that we are a supportive and fair place to work. The Germany Network values are kindness, inclusivity, honesty, professionalism and responsibility. These values guide how we work on a daily basis, and all staff must adhere to them.
Main purpose of job:
The Finance & Budget Manager, Corporate Services will manage the Network’s operating and capital budgets, including analysis, forecasting and budget planning. The jobholder will also manage and implement financial controls and compliance, monthly transparency returns, and year-end processes in coordination with the Head of Corporate Services (HCS), Senior Management and the Regional Finance Hub.
The jobholder will have line management responsibility of two roles, namely the two AO Finance Officers.
Roles and responsibilities:
Manage the Network’s local finance operations, in line with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) global policy and guidance. This includes:
Finance Management:
- Oversee the Network’s local finance operations in accordance with Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) global policies and guidelines.
- Lead monthly and annual financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting processes, ensuring timely communication, data collection, modelling, and adherence to all deadlines.
- Collaborate with the Regional Finance Hub to provide monthly updates on budgetary challenges and cost-saving opportunities.
- Monitor and manage the Post’s financial performance against key performance indicators (KPIs) and financial performance and compliance indicators (FPCIs), ensuring compliance and supporting the delivery of value for money.
- Foster strong, collaborative relationships with the Network’s senior leadership team, Finance and HR Business Partners, the Global Transaction Processing Centre (GTPC) in the UK and Milton Keynes, and Regional Corporate Services Hubs.
- Advise line managers, senior management, and boards at Post on policy and financial matters, including guidance on business cases related to financial or staffing resources.
- Prepare accurate and robust financial updates for monthly meetings with the HMA/DHM and HCS.
- Develop dashboards for quarterly Country Board meetings.
- Coordinate Post’s cooperation with financial audits and conduct regular self-audits, including monthly Network Post Accounts.
- Support Corporate Services Team colleagues in enhancing their financial management and decision-making.
- Deliver financial training as needed, including finance induction for new joiners and budget holders to improve overall budget management and reporting.
Finance Processes:
- Manage all payment processing and funding through Post bank accounts in partnership with the Regional Finance Hub and GTPC.
- Oversee business relationships and processes with banking partners, in collaboration with the HCS.
- Manage cash reconciliation at Post.
- Advise on income generation pricing, accounting, and insurance as applicable.
Line Management:
- Line manage two AO Finance Officers, including all associated responsibilities such as appraisals, coaching, mentoring, and supporting ongoing learning and development.
Platform Management:
- Serve as the primary contact for finance queries from across the platform.
- Prepare recharges to PAGs in accordance with the memorandum of understanding (MOU).
Team Support:
- Participate in crisis preparedness and response as a member of the Welfare team.
- Undertake other duties as required, including supporting colleagues in the Corporate Services Team.
Resources Managed:
- Direct line management of two AO Finance Officers.
- Oversight of Germany Network operational and capital budgets.
Our Ideal Candidate shows:
- Proficiency in English and German (both written and spoken, minimum of C1 level for CEFR framework*).
- A degree in accounting, finance, or a related field and with three (3) years of experience in a financial management role.
- Strong understanding and proven experience of budgeting, forecasting and budget monitoring, including payroll.
- Previous line management experience.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools, particularly MS Excel and MS Word.
- Ability to work under pressure using own initiative and following compulsory rules and procedures. Ability to understand and interpret policies, regulations and rules.
- Proven track record of delivering results to a high standard within tight deadlines. Strong multitasking, organisational, and time management skills, with excellent attention to details.
- Strong analysis skills, with excellent problem solving and decision-making skills.
- Team player with excellent interpersonal skills and a confident communicator. Able to deal with all staff and teams within the Network.
- Committed to learning and development for one’s self and the team
For further details on this vacancy and information on how to apply, please follow the link.