Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
References
Communication Languages
Timeline
Generic

Getachew TESFAY

Maputo,Mozambique

Summary

  • Dynamic Administrative Officer with extensive experience at UNHCR, excelling in financial management and risk mitigation. Proven track record in optimizing resource allocation and enhancing internal controls. Adept at fostering strong relationships and effective communication, driving strategic initiatives that improve operational efficiency and compliance. Committed to delivering impactful results in diverse environments.

Overview

19
19
years of professional experience

Work History

Administrative Officer, P3

UNHCR - The UN Refugee Agency
Pemba, Mozambique
08.2023 - Current
  • Steered financial integrity across a designated geographic area by overseeing integrated management, ensuring policy adherence, and maintaining accurate accounting records, including timely reconciliations, and transaction processing.
  • Provided strategic financial guidance to management on policy application, risk mitigation through robust internal controls, and continuous improvement of monitoring mechanisms.
  • Collaborated on donor relations by supporting the preparation and endorsement of financial reports, and facilitating timely and accurate monthly and yearly closing processes.
  • Drove efficient resource allocation through in-depth analysis of budget management, development of context-specific KPIs, and proactive advice on best practices throughout the program cycle.
  • Coordinated financial planning by analyzing past trends and future projections, ensuring the quality and coherence of budget submissions for optimal resource utilization.
  • Monitored budget execution and financial performance against objectives, providing insightful analysis, proposing corrective actions, and supporting grant management compliance.
  • Ensured operational effectiveness by managing day-to-day personnel and administrative functions, providing necessary resources, and fostering a healthy, respectful work environment.
  • Managed safety and security through the formulation and implementation of measures, ensuring MOSS/MORSS compliance, and proactively addressing staff well-being and living conditions.
  • Streamlined external relations by liaising with the government and other actors on vital support services, and managing local procurement processes and supplier relationships.
  • Delivered strategic HR counsel to management on all HR aspects, aligning with organizational priorities, and fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment.
  • Managed talent acquisition by overseeing the full recruitment cycle for local staff and the affiliate workforce, ensuring compliance, and promoting diversity through targeted outreach.
  • Promoted employee well-being by building dialogue with staff, proactively addressing welfare concerns, and supporting the implementation of Duty of Care strategies, and work-life balance initiatives.

Associate Admin Officer, P2

UNHCR - The UN Refugee Agency
Somalia/South Sudan
02.2021 - 07.2023
  • Directed integrated financial management, reporting, and policy adherence across the Area of Responsibility (AoR), ensuring fiscal integrity.
  • Advised management on complex financial policy interpretations, and ensured accurate accounting records, including reconciliations and transaction processing.
  • Managed donor financial reporting and endorsements, fostering strong relationships, and compliance.
  • Oversaw timely financial closures, budget execution, monitoring, and local cash management in accordance with regulations.
  • Enforced the Delegation of Authority Plan (DOAP) and implemented robust financial controls for cash-based interventions.
  • Certified financial vouchers and performed project control functions, ensuring responsible resource utilization.
  • Led the coordination of audit responses and the implementation of accounting recommendations.
  • Conducted an in-depth analysis of program budgets and resource management, developing KPIs to optimize efficiency.
  • Managed budget processes, maintained budget models, and provided strategic expenditure insights to budget holders.
  • Streamlined administrative and HR operations, including procurement, contract management, and staff entitlements.
  • Ensured compliance with administrative, financial, and HR policies, while actively contributing to risk management.
  • Coordinated local staff recruitment, onboarding, and offboarding, promoting diversity and inclusion.
  • Provided HR guidance to managers and staff, fostering an inclusive work environment, and addressing welfare concerns.
  • Contributed to duty of care initiatives, including medical and security evacuations, and promoted workforce well-being.
  • Participated in inter-agency HR forums, and supported the implementation of HR initiatives and organizational culture change.

Admin/Finance Associate

UNHCR - The UN Refugee Agency
Alamata/Samara/Mekelle, Ethiopia
08.2012 - 02.2021
  • Spearheaded financial oversight by meticulously monitoring budgets, analyzing variances, and controlling disbursements against approved plans, ensuring fiscal accountability.
  • Optimized cash flow through proactive monthly forecasting and the management of timely fund replenishments, fostering strong local banking relationships.
  • Guaranteed financial integrity by rigorously verifying transactions against UNHCR regulations, and generating comprehensive office expenditure reports.
  • Directed daily administrative functions and personnel operations, encompassing facility maintenance, security protocols, and transportation logistics.
  • Provided comprehensive administrative support to national and international personnel, facilitating smooth transitions, and managing essential documentation.
  • Enhanced office efficiency by developing administrative procedures, preparing critical reports, and coordinating staff capacity-building initiatives.
  • Contributed to HR initiatives by analyzing training needs and advising staff on their rights and benefits, in accordance with UN/UNHCR guidelines.
  • Streamlined recruitment of local staff, managing the full cycle from advertising to processing assignments, and maintaining accurate personnel records.
  • Facilitated the integration of international staff by managing onboarding processes, and providing support with medical insurance and security protocols.
  • Managed comprehensive supply chain activities, including malt year procurement planning, sourcing, procurement, and efficient logistics, to ensure timely delivery of essential resources.
  • Executed effective procurement processes, identifying and engaging partners, managing tenders, and ensuring adherence to UNHCR's procurement policies.

Assistant Finance Officer

International Rescue Committee (IRC)
Shire, Ethiopia
01.2009 - 08.2012
  • Managed all aspects of financial operations, including accounts payable/receivable, general ledger, and payroll, ensuring accuracy and compliance with IRC and donor regulations.
  • Developed and monitored project budgets in collaboration with program teams, providing insightful financial analysis to support effective resource allocation and decision-making.
  • Prepared timely and accurate financial reports, including monthly, quarterly, and annual statements, for internal and external stakeholders, highlighting key financial performance metrics.
  • Implemented and maintained robust internal control systems to safeguard organizational assets, and ensure adherence to financial policies and procedures.
  • Processed payments and maintained accurate financial records, ensuring proper documentation, and adherence to authorization levels.
  • Conducted regular financial reviews and reconciliations, proactively identifying and resolving discrepancies to maintain data integrity.
  • Supported external audits by preparing the necessary documentation and liaising with auditors to facilitate a smooth and efficient audit process.
  • Provided financial guidance and training to non-finance staff, enhancing their understanding of financial procedures, and promoting financial accountability across the organization.

Audit Coordinator

Finance & Economic Development office
Shire, Ethiopia
09.2007 - 01.2009
  • Directed and coordinated all phases of internal audits within the civil service, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and standards.
  • Developed risk-based audit plans, prioritizing key areas, and allocating resources effectively to maximize audit impact.
  • Managed audit teams, providing guidance, oversight, and ensuring the timely and quality execution of audit engagements.
  • Evaluated the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls, recommending improvements to enhance operational efficiency, and mitigate risks.
  • Conducted thorough reviews of financial and operational processes, identifying areas for optimization, and potential non-compliance.
  • Liaised with various civil service departments and agencies to facilitate audits, ensuring cooperation and access to necessary information.
  • Prepared clear and concise audit reports, presenting findings, conclusions, and actionable recommendations to senior management.
  • Monitored the implementation of audit recommendations, tracking progress, and ensuring timely corrective actions were taken to address identified weaknesses.

Auditor

Finance & Economic Development Office
Shire, Ethiopia
08.2006 - 09.2007
  • Conducted independent and objective audits of civil service operations and financial records to ensure compliance and accountability.
  • Evaluated the effectiveness of internal control systems, identifying weaknesses, and recommending practical solutions for improvement.
  • Reviewed financial statements and supporting documentation to verify accuracy, completeness, and adherence to accounting standards, and government regulations.
  • Assessed operational efficiency and effectiveness, identifying opportunities to streamline processes, and enhance resource utilization.
  • Developed and executed audit programs tailored to specific areas of review, incorporating risk-based methodologies.
  • Gathered and analyzed audit evidence through various techniques, including interviews, document reviews, and data analysis.
  • Prepared clear and concise audit findings and recommendations, communicating them effectively to relevant stakeholders.
  • Followed up on audit recommendations to ensure timely implementation of corrective actions, and track improvements in governance and internal controls.

Education

BA - Accounting

University of Gondar
Ethiopia
01.2006

Skills

  • Administration
  • Financial Management
  • Funds monitoring
  • Identifying cash flow problems
  • Office management
  • Resource Management
  • Building management
  • Internal controls
  • Effective communication
  • Senior leadership support
  • Financial reporting
  • Problem-solving aptitude
  • Budget tracking
  • Contract Management
  • Inventory/Stock Management
  • Procurement management
  • Grant management
  • Risk mitigation

References

  • Elza Marzagano, UNHCR, Damascus, Syrian Operation, Technical supervisor, marzagan@unhcr.org
  • Aleka Ewinyu, Senior Admin Officer, UNHCR, Rwanda, Kigali Operation, Technical supervisor, ewinyu@unhcr.org
  • Monique Rudacogora, Head of Sub Office, UNHCR, Galkayo, Somalia Operation, Supervisor, rudacogo@unhcr.org

Communication Languages

  • English, Fluent
  • Amharic, Fluent
  • Tigrigna, Fluent

Timeline

Administrative Officer, P3

UNHCR - The UN Refugee Agency
08.2023 - Current

Associate Admin Officer, P2

UNHCR - The UN Refugee Agency
02.2021 - 07.2023

Admin/Finance Associate

UNHCR - The UN Refugee Agency
08.2012 - 02.2021

Assistant Finance Officer

International Rescue Committee (IRC)
01.2009 - 08.2012

Audit Coordinator

Finance & Economic Development office
09.2007 - 01.2009

Auditor

Finance & Economic Development Office
08.2006 - 09.2007

BA - Accounting

University of Gondar

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Getachew TESFAY