Reports to: Head of Finance
Location: Ajman, UAE
Main purpose of the position
The CGIAR Red Palm Weevil Consortium is a high-priority, multi-partner initiative supported by UAE presidential court and the Gates Foundation. The consortium aims to deliver sustainable, science-based solutions to mitigate the impact of the Red Palm Weevil on LMICs primarily in north Africa and South Asia. ICARDA leads the consortium in delivering science-based, sustainable pest control solutions with regional impact. The initiative is grounded in accountability, scientific excellence, and cross-sector collaboration.
The Project Finance & Compliance Officer (PFCO) is a key member of the consortium management team that supports the Deputy Director General (DDGR) as Consortium Program Director. The PFCO is responsible for ensuring that the project’s financial management and compliance processes meet both ICARDA’s internal standards and external donor requirements. The role ensures sound financial planning and control, compliance monitoring, stewardship of project resources and coordination with national and regional partners. The position also supports capacity development and internal accounts controls at both ICARDA and partner levels. The PFCO of the project ensures the integrity of financial planning, oversight of project expenditures, risk mitigation, and accurate donor reporting. The position safeguards financial accountability across ICARDA and partner institutions while supporting strategic decision-making through robust analysis and controls.
About ICARDA
The International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) is a treaty-based international non-profit research organization supported by CGIAR.
ICARDA’s mission is to reduce poverty and enhance food, water, nutritional security, and environmental health in the face of global challenges, including climate change. We do this through innovative science, strategic partnerships, linking research to development, and capacity development that consider gender equality and the role of youth in transforming the dry areas. ICARDA works in partnership with governments, universities, civil society, national agricultural research organizations, other CGIAR research Centers, and the private sector. With its temporary Headquarters in Beirut, Lebanon, ICARDA operates in regional and country offices across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. For more information: www.icarda.org.

EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS, AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field. A master’s degree and/or professional certification (CPA, ACCA) is a strong asset.
• Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in project finance or grants management, preferably with international development or research organizations. Experience with major donors (especially Gates Foundation or Gulf-based funders) is an advantage.
• Solid knowledge of budgeting, financial analysis, and donor financial reporting.
• Familiarity with IFRS and audit procedures.
• Proficiency in financial systems (e.g., ERP) and Excel; Power BI and Unit4 are a plus.
• Strong communication skills in English and Arabic.
• Good judgment, attention to detail, and a problem-solving mindset.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and external partners.
• Willingness to travel occasionally to partner sites, Cairo HQ, and field locations (30%).