Business Control Specialist – Grants

About the Organization
SNV Netherlands Development Organisation is an international development partner with more than 60 years of experience supporting sustainable and inclusive growth across Africa and Asia. The organization works to create a world where all people live with dignity and have equal opportunities to thrive.

SNV focuses on transforming agri-food, energy, and water systems while strengthening institutions and governance. Its programs are designed to reduce inequality, promote gender equity, and address climate and biodiversity challenges.

With operations in more than 20 countries and a diverse global workforce, SNV combines technical expertise with local knowledge to deliver large-scale, long-term development impact.

The organization promotes a culture rooted in respect, diversity, accountability, and collaboration. Employees benefit from a professional environment that values innovation, learning, and ethical leadership.

SNV is committed to empowering communities and building resilient systems that contribute to sustainable development goals.

Job Description
The Business Control Specialist – Grants is responsible for overseeing grant management, donor compliance, and financial controls within the Country Office. The role plays a critical part in ensuring that donor-funded projects are managed transparently and efficiently.

The position works closely with program and finance teams to prepare competitive grant proposals and develop accurate budgets. It ensures that financial plans are aligned with donor guidelines and organizational policies.

The specialist monitors grant expenditures and ensures funds are used strictly according to approved budgets and contractual terms. This role supports organizational accountability and strengthens internal financial systems.

A key responsibility is managing all donor contracts within the Country Office. The role ensures that contractual obligations are met and financial risks are minimized.

The specialist collaborates with program teams during proposal development to ensure realistic costing and application of Full Cost Recovery principles using updated templates.

The role is accountable for the quality and timeliness of grant submissions and financial reports, maintaining strong donor relationships and satisfaction.

The position also leads the management of sub-grants, partners, consultants, and subcontractors. It ensures full compliance with donor finance rules, SNV policies, and relevant regulations.

The specialist conducts due diligence assessments to confirm that partners have adequate financial systems to manage donor funds responsibly.

Contract reviews are conducted before signing to safeguard financial interests and confirm budget availability using pre-contract checklists.

Capacity building is a significant aspect of this role. The specialist provides guidance and support to partners on donor compliance and financial reporting standards.

The position works closely with treasury and disbursement teams to ensure timely processing of partner advances and reimbursements once contractual conditions are met.

The specialist follows up on partner reporting timelines, verifies expenditure reports, and ensures accruals are properly recorded in the financial system.

Where applicable, the role may supervise and mentor junior staff. It contributes to performance management and supports professional development initiatives.

Educational Qualification
Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Applied Economics, or a related field.

Professional certifications in finance or accounting will be considered an advantage.

Work Experience
A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience in finance, grants management, or project control is required.

Experience in financial modeling, corporate reporting, and project management is highly desirable.

Hands-on experience with ERP systems, preferably SAP Business ByDesign, is advantageous.

Prior experience working with US Government and other international donor-funded projects is strongly preferred.

Required Skills and Competencies
Strong analytical and financial management skills are essential.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel, is required.

Experience using financial software systems is an added advantage.

Excellent communication and presentation skills are necessary to engage effectively with internal teams and external partners.

Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines are critical.

Candidates must demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and commitment to ethical standards.

Leadership and coaching skills are valued, particularly for those supervising or mentoring others.

A clear commitment to teamwork, gender equality, participatory approaches, and sustainable development principles is required.

Job Location
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Employment Type and Salary
This position is offered under a National Contract.

The contract duration is one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and budget availability.

The expected start date is May 01, 2026.

Compensation and benefits will follow SNV’s national employment framework and will be competitive based on qualifications and experience.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified applicants should apply through the official SNV career portal using the following link: https://www.snv.org/careers/business-control-specialist-grants-744000111088906

The application deadline is March 6, 2026.

Applicants are encouraged to apply early. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further recruitment processes.

Scanned certificates or additional attachments are not required at the initial stage of application.

SNV is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages women and candidates from underrepresented groups to apply.

This position provides an excellent opportunity for finance professionals to deepen their expertise in grants management, strengthen donor compliance skills, and contribute to impactful international development programs while advancing their professional careers.