(PROJECT) FINANCE OFFICER

About the European Climate Foundation The European Climate Foundation (ECF) is a major philanthropic initiative working to help tackle climate change by fostering the development of a net-zero emission society at the national, European and global level. We support over 300 partner organizations to carry out activities that drive urgent and ambitious policy in support of the objectives of the Paris Agreement, contribute to the public debate on climate action and help deliver a socially responsible transition to a net-zero economy and sustainable society in Europe and around the world. The ECF team is a highly dynamic group of individuals, combining ambition and passion with a rigorous, results-oriented and analytic approach to the work. The ECF’s culture is one of intensity, enthusiasm and mutual support. About the role The (Project) Finance Officer will be a key member of the Finance team, with an initial focus on project finance activities, and will have responsibilities related to the different stages of the project finance, including budgeting, financial control and reporting. The Finance Officer will report to the Finance and Grants Manager but work in close cooperation with the Programme Teams. Key responsibilities - Manage a portfolio of existing funding contracts, ensuring adherence to funding commitments, restrictions, and compliance requirements. - Ensure compliance with all financial guidelines and requirements set by donors. - Allocate donor funds accurately to grantees and oversee the financial reporting process of grantees. - Prepare and submit quarterly and/or annual financial reports to donors, collaborating closely with program teams to ensure alignment with narrative reporting. Liaise with the Fundraising team for reporting purposes. - Coordinate the collection of donor-required supporting documents such as invoices, timesheets, salary slips, and procurement files, working closely with relevant program and administrative units. - Ensure correct accounting allocation of salaries and costs in coordination with program teams. - Monitor program and donor-specific budgets, identifying and communicating any under/overspending issues to program teams. - Lead and coordinate new project budgeting processes in collaboration with both the Program and Fundraising teams. - Coordinate donor audit processes when necessary and liaise with donor operations/control teams regarding project-related financial matters. - Perform other tasks as assigned by the line manager. Experience and competencies - Minimum of 3 years' hands-on experience as a project/program controller, preferably in an international non-profit organization or private foundation, with a focus on public donors. - Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or another relevant area. - Strong attention to detail with a proven track record as a completer/finisher. - Proactive and enthusiastic team player with the ability to work independently and maintain discretion. - Excellent problem-solving skills and a positive, can-do attitude. - Ability to effectively prioritise tasks and manage multiple responsibilities. - Proficiency in working with numbers and comfortable with financial analysis. - Computer literate with proficiency in the MS Office suite. - Experience with IT systems, grant management systems, and financial management information systems. - Interest in climate and environmental issues (experience in a similar organisation is a plus but not required). - Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. What we offer - The unique opportunity to work as part of a highly dynamic, international group of individuals who combine their passion to make a difference with a rigorous and results-oriented approach to work. - A flexible work environment and a space to develop and challenge yourself. - A one-year temporary contract followed with a permanent full-time position. Location Preferably in The Hague, The Netherlands (Brussels and Paris can also be considered, need to be eligible to work and live in these countries)