Terms of Reference (TOR) – Financial Officer 

1. Project Title: Governance in Water and Environment to Increase Resilience & Adaptation to  Climate Change (GiWEAC) project. 
2. Project Background: 

“This project, a collaboration between Zero Waste Laos (ZWL) and HELVETAS Laos, aims to  empower youth in 12 communities to drive environmental awareness and build climate resilience  through the ‘Environment Opportunity Fund.’ This initiative provides small grants and capacity building support to youth-led projects, fostering collaboration with NUOL students and village  authorities. The project focuses on enhancing youth skills in project planning and management,  facilitating dialogue with local government, and promoting sustainable community-based  solutions to environmental challenges. HELVETAS Laos provides overall project management,  quality assurance, and funding, including the support for a dedicated Climate Community  Coordinator at ZWL, while ZWL leads the implementation of activities at the community level.  The project emphasizes a community-driven approach, recognizing the critical role of youth in  creating a more resilient and sustainable future.” 

3. Position Title: Financial Officer 
4. ສະຖານທີ່: Vientiane, ZWL office 
5. Reporting To: Project Manager / ZWL Finance Manager 
6. Duration: 1 year contract 
7. Project Objectives (Relevant to Financial Role): 

• Ensure accurate and timely financial management of project funds. 
• Maintain compliance with financial policies and procedures of both ZWL and HELVETAS  Laos. 
• Provide financial support and guidance to project staff and partners. 
• Ensure transparent and accountable use of project resources. 

8. Role and Responsibilities: 

• Financial Management: 

o Manage day-to-day financial operations of the project. 

o Prepare and process payments, invoices, and expense reports. 

o Maintain accurate financial records and documentation. 

o Monitor project expenditures against approved budgets. 

o Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports. 

o Manage cash flow and ensure adequate funds are available for project activities.

o Maintain fixed asset register. 

o Ensure all financial transactions are properly authorized and documented. • Budgeting and Reporting: 

o Assist in the development and monitoring of project budgets. 

o Prepare budget variance analyses and provide recommendations for corrective  action. 

o Prepare financial reports for submission to HELVETAS Laos and ZWL  management. 

o Ensure that all financial reporting is accurate and timely. 

• Compliance and Internal Controls: 

o Ensure compliance with ZWL and HELVETAS Laos financial policies and  procedures. 

o Implement and maintain effective internal controls. 

o Assist in the preparation for financial audits. 

o Ensure compliance with local tax and labor regulations. 

• Grant Management: 

o Manage the disbursement and tracking of small grants under the Environment  Opportunity Fund. 

o Ensure that grant recipients comply with financial reporting requirements. o Provide financial support and guidance to grant recipients. 

• Administrative Support: 

o Maintain financial files and records. 

o Assist with procurement processes. 

o Support project staff with financial inquiries. 

9. Qualifications and Experience: 

• Education: 

o Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. 

• Experience: 

o Minimum 3 years of experience in financial management, preferably in the non profit or development sector. 

o Experience in grant management and financial reporting. 

o Knowledge of accounting principles and practices. 

o Experience with financial software and accounting systems. 

• ທັກສະ: 

o Strong financial management and analytical skills. 

o Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other financial software. 

o Excellent attention to detail and accuracy. 

o Strong organizational and time management skills.  

o Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 

o Good understanding of local financial laws.  

o Fluency in [Local Language] and working english skills. 

• Personal Attributes:

o Integrity and trustworthiness. 

o Ability to maintain confidentiality. 

o Strong work ethic. 

10. Evaluation Criteria: 

• Qualifications and experience (as outlined above). 
• Financial management skills. 
• Knowledge of accounting principles and practices. 
• Interview performance. 

11. Application Process: 

• Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information for  three references to souksaveuy@zerowastelaos.org 
• The deadline for applications is March 15, 2025. 

12. Selection Process: 

• Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview. 
• The selected candidate will be subject to a background check.