Finance Officer

Position Summary The Finance Officer will be responsible for supporting and maintaining the financial operations of APD's Pune office. The role will involve bookkeeping, accounting records, accounts payable and receivable, bank reconciliation, cash-flow monitoring, payroll support, financial reporting, statutory compliance, audit support and grant-related financial documentation. The Finance Officer will play an important role in ensuring that financial transactions and records are accurate, timely, properly documented and compliant with APD's financial policies and applicable regulations. The ideal candidate will have strong accounting knowledge, excellent attention to detail, analytical ability and the ability to maintain financial information with a high level of confidentiality and accuracy. Key Responsibilities Accounting & Bookkeeping - Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records, ledgers, invoices, receipts and supporting documentation. - Record financial transactions in the accounting system in accordance with organizational procedures. - Ensure proper documentation and coding of expenses and transactions. - Review financial documents for accuracy, completeness and appropriate approvals. - Maintain organized physical and digital financial records. Accounts Payable & Receivable - Process vendor invoices and ensure timely payments in accordance with approved procedures. - Track outstanding payments and receivables. - Follow up on pending collections and maintain appropriate records. - Verify supporting documents before processing financial transactions. - Coordinate with vendors and internal departments regarding payment-related queries. Bank Reconciliation & Cash Management - Perform regular bank reconciliations and identify discrepancies. - Monitor cash balances and support cash-flow management. - Maintain records of petty cash and other financial transactions. - Ensure timely recording and reconciliation of financial transactions. Financial Reporting - Assist in preparing monthly, quarterly and annual financial reports. - Prepare financial summaries and statements for management review. - Provide financial information and analysis to program and management teams as required. - Monitor expenditure against approved budgets and highlight significant variances. - Support financial forecasting and planning activities. Budgeting & Grant Finance - Assist in preparing departmental and project budgets. - Track project and program expenditure against approved budgets. - Support grant-related financial reporting and documentation. - Maintain proper financial records for donor-funded projects. - Coordinate with program teams to ensure appropriate utilization and documentation of project funds. - Assist in preparing financial information required by donors and funding partners. Payroll Support - Assist in monthly payroll preparation. - Verify payroll-related information and supporting documentation. - Coordinate with HR and management to ensure accurate and timely salary processing. - Maintain appropriate payroll records and confidentiality. Statutory Compliance - Assist in ensuring compliance with applicable accounting, taxation and financial regulations. - Support preparation and filing of required tax and compliance documents. - Maintain records required for statutory and organizational compliance. - Coordinate with internal stakeholders and external professionals on compliance matters as required. Audit Support - Provide financial records, schedules and supporting documents required for internal and external audits. - Coordinate with auditors and respond to requests for financial documentation. - Assist in resolving audit queries and maintaining proper audit trails. - Ensure financial records are complete and readily accessible for audit purposes. Process Improvement & Internal Controls - Follow APD's financial policies, procedures and internal control mechanisms. - Identify gaps or inefficiencies in accounting and financial processes and suggest improvements. - Support implementation of effective financial controls. - Ensure proper authorization and documentation of financial transactions. Maintain confidentiality and security of financial and organizational information. Requirements Experience - Minimum 2–3 years of relevant experience in finance, accounting or bookkeeping. - Experience in an NGO/non-profit organization, donor-funded projects or corporate environment will be an advantage. - Experience with grant accounting and financial reporting will be an added advantage. Skills & Competencies - Strong knowledge of accounting and bookkeeping principles. - Good understanding of financial controls and compliance requirements. - Proficiency in accounting software such as Tally, QuickBooks, Xero or similar platforms . - Good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office Suite. - Strong analytical and numerical skills. - High level of accuracy and attention to detail. - Good reconciliation and problem-solving skills. - Strong documentation and record-management abilities. - Good communication and interpersonal skills. - Ability to manage deadlines and multiple financial activities. - Ability to work independently and as part of a team. - High level of integrity and confidentiality when handling financial information. Additional Requirements - Willingness to support other finance and administrative activities as required. - Ability to work effectively in a mission-driven and inclusive organization. - Commitment to APD's values of integrity, accountability, excellence, collaboration and diversity. - Sensitivity and respect when working with persons with disabilities and other stakeholders. Benefits Benefits: - Competitive salary commensurate with experience. - Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance. - Paid time off and holidays. - Opportunities for professional development and career growth.