At a Glance
- Tasks: Support financial management of projects, track budgets, and ensure accurate reporting.
- Company: GIST Research, a global firm delivering impactful solutions in complex environments.
- Benefits: 25 days annual leave, flexible working options, and a supportive culture.
- Other info: Remote work opportunities and career growth in a collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team making a real difference in high-risk areas.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance or project support, strong Excel skills, and attention to detail.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Description
Finance & Projects Officer Location
Contract
- Permanent - full time or part time hours
- About GIST Research
GIST is a global research, advisory, and programme delivery firm operating in complex and high-risk environments across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
We work with governments, international organisations, and NGOs to design and deliver practical, high-impact solutions.
Our teams combine strong analytical expertise with on the ground access in hard-to-reach areas, enabling us to respond effectively to local challenges.
Our work spans conflict analysis, institutional strengthening, and innovative approaches to aid delivery in fragile settings.
We prioritise long-term partnerships and local knowledge, working closely with trusted experts to deliver sustainable results.
GIST is known for its independence, integrity, and ability to turn insight into action.
About the role
The Finance & Projects Officer supports the Finance & Compliance Manager in maintaining accurate financial records, monitoring project budgets, and ensuring timely financial reporting across the organisation.
The role's primary focus is supporting the financial management of projects, including budget tracking, expenditure monitoring, forecasting, and reporting.
The successful candidate will work closely with project teams to help ensure financial information is accurate, up to date, and supports effective decision-making.
The role will also provide support with financial compliance, project documentation, and donor reporting requirements where needed.
Previous experience of donor-funded programmes, including HMG or FCDO-funded projects, would be beneficial but is not essential.
In addition, the role will assist with proposal budgeting and other finance-related activities that support the organisation's operational and commercial objectives.
- Project Finance & Compliance Support
- Support the maintenance of project budgets, ensuring expenditure is recorded accurately and aligned with approved plans.
- Monitor project expenditure and assist with forecasting, identifying variances and escalating issues to the Finance Manager where appropriate.
- Prepare routine financial reports and budget updates for internal stakeholders.
- Support project invoicing, financial reconciliations, and documentation requirements.
- Maintain organised financial records and supporting documentation to assist with audits and donor reporting requirements.
- Provide administrative and financial support relating to donor-funded projects, including those supported by UK Government funding where applicable.
- Assist the Finance Manager in ensuring projects comply with relevant financial and contractual requirements.
- Required Skills & Experience
- Experience working in a finance, accounts, or project finance support role.
- Good understanding of financial reporting, budgeting, and reconciliations.
- Strong Excel skills, including working with large datasets and basic financial analysis.
- Ability to track multiple budgets and reporting deadlines.
- Strong organisational skills with excellent attention to detail.
- Ability to communicate effectively with both finance and non-finance colleagues.
- Experience supporting audit preparation or month-end processes would be advantageous.
Desirable Skills & Experience
- Exposure to donor-funded programmes or grant-funded projects.
- Familiarity with UK Government-funded programmes (including FCDO, HMG, ISF or similar funding mechanisms).
- Experience supporting proposal budgeting or bid costing.
- Knowledge of financial compliance processes.
- Experience working in consulting, development, or international project environments.
- What we can offer you
- 25 days annual leave, plus Bank Holidays
- Workplace pension scheme
- Remote working opportunities
• Flexible working options with
- Full-time hours (37.5 hours per week), or o
- Part-time hours (minimum 20 hours per week)
- A supportive and collaborative working culture
Finance & Projects Officer employer: GIST Research
GIST is an exceptional employer for Project Managers, offering a dynamic work culture that values independence and integrity while tackling complex challenges across East and Central Africa. With a focus on employee growth through training and development opportunities, GIST fosters a collaborative environment where innovative solutions are co-developed with local communities and stakeholders. The remote nature of the role allows for flexibility, while the chance to engage in meaningful projects ensures that your contributions have a lasting impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance & Projects Officer
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like GIST Research. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance & Projects Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to GIST Research.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on GIST Research's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at GIST Research
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with GIST Research.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at GIST Research will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former GIST Research employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
