Financial Management Consultant – SADEP

About IFDC

The International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) is a public international organization that advances soil health and strengthens agricultural systems through science-based innovation. For over 50 years, IFDC has translated research into practical solutions that improve nutrient use efficiency, restore degraded soils, strengthen local agricultural markets and expand opportunity for smallholder farmers, especially women and youth. 

We work with farmers, governments and private sector partners to build resilient farming systems that produce nutritious food, improve livelihoods, and safeguard natural resources for future generations.  

Our Values

We are guided by four core principles: 

Collaborate – We work across teams, countries and partners to create lasting impact. 
Innovate – We apply evidence and continuous learning to design practical and responsible solutions. 
Include – We promote equity and meaningful participation for women, youth and underrepresented groups. 
Act with Integrity – We steward resources responsibly, uphold transparency and remain accountable to the communities, partners, staff and donors who place their trust in us. 

Position Summary

IFDC is preparing to implement an IFAD and Government of South Sudan funded contract focused on strengthening climate-resilient agricultural livelihoods, food security, and market engagement across selected counties in South Sudan. To support the project's pre-inception and start-up activities, IFDC is seeking a qualified Financial Management Consultant with demonstrated experience on IFAD-funded projects. The consultant will conduct a rapid assessment of IFDC's current financial management systems to identify gaps relative to IFAD requirements and provide targeted guidance to ensure readiness for project implementation.

Scope of Services 

The overall objective of this consultancy is to ensure that IFDC's financial management systems comply with IFAD's minimum requirements and that the project is equipped to manage funds accountably and transparently. Specific objectives may include but are not limited to:

Rapid Financial Management Assessment:

The consultant will conduct a structured review of IFDC's current financial management infrastructure, including:

• Review existing financial management policies, procedures, and manuals;
• Assess bookkeeping and financial accounting system including software/tools in use;
• Evaluate the chart of accounts and report in alignment with IFAD requirements;
• Review internal controls, authorization levels, segregation of duties, and audit trails;
• Assess financial reporting processes including formats and frequency of internal and external reports;
• Review cash management, banking arrangements, and funds flow mechanisms;
• Assess payroll, fixed asset management, and grant management sub-systems where relevant;

Gap Analysis and Guidance

Based on the assessment findings, the consultant will:

• Prepare a gap analysis mapping current practices against IFAD's minimum requirements for project financial management;
• Develop a prioritized, time-bound action plan for addressing identified gaps;
• Provide technical guidance on adapting or upgrading IFDC's financial management system to support preparation of IFAD-compliant reporting;
• Advise on required updates to financial policies, delegations of authority, and governance documents;
• Provide guidance on IFAD's financial reporting calendar and key submission deadlines.

System Design Support

The consultant will support IFDC and the project Financial Management Officer in implementing key recommendations. This may include:

• Draft or revise the project Financial Management Manual covering bookkeeping procedures, internal controls, reporting formats, and audit arrangements;
• Support the setup of project-specific accounting modules or cost centers within IFDC's existing system;
• Prepare templates for IFAD required financial reports, including Interim Financial Reports;
• Advise the selection and terms of reference for external auditors consistent with IFAD audit requirements.

Follow-On Support (As Needed)

Subject to satisfactory performance and project needs, the consultant may be engaged for follow-on support including:

• Build capacity of IFDC finance staff on IFAD financial management procedures;
• Review of the first set of IFAD financial reports (IFRs) prior to submission;
• Support during IFAD supervision missions with financial management components;
• Conduct periodic compliance reviews and system audits during project implementation.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in accounting, finance, public financial management, or a related field; professional certification (e.g., CPA, ACCA) preferred;
• Minimum 7 years of professional experience in financial management, with at least 3 years on IFAD-funded or comparable multilateral development bank contracts;
• Demonstrated knowledge of IFAD's financial management requirements including the IFAD Project Financial Management Handbook;
• Proven experience in developing financial management manuals, chart of accounts, and IFAD-compliant reporting templates;
• Familiarity with common accounting software used in IFAD project environments;
• Experience in South Sudan/East Africa preferred.
• Knowledge of IPSAS or IFRS accounting standards is an advantage;
• Strong analytical and report-writing skills in English;
• Familiarity with the agricultural development sector is an advantage.

Location and Duration 

This is a short-term consultancy to be conducted either in Juba, South Sudan or remotely. The assignment is expected to span approximately: four to six weeks.[RT1] 

Reporting and Work Relationships

The role will report to the Project Manager and will work closely with IFDC and project staff.

Diversity Clause

IFDC is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe in the value of bringing together people with a broad range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. All employment decisions at IFDC are made on the basis of ability, performance, and organizational need, in alignment with our values of fairness, respect, and opportunity for all.