Are you an experienced finance professional with a passion for sustainability, conservation, and impact-driven work? Action for Ocean (AFO), formerly known as Aqua-Farms Organization, is looking for a highly skilled Finance Manager to join its dynamic team in September 2025. This is an exciting opportunity to work with one of Tanzania’s leading youth-led NGOs in marine conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods.
Introduction to AFO – Action for Ocean
Founded in 2016 and officially registered in 2017, Action for Ocean (AFO) is a youth-led organization dedicated to marine conservation and climate resilience. In 2025, the organization rebranded to expand its influence, innovation, and impact in the blue economy sector.
AFO works across community-based conservation, women empowerment, research, climate-smart aquaculture, and youth livelihood development, directly contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Guided by values of transparency, accountability, teamwork, and innovation, AFO continues to build a thriving future for both people and aquatic ecosystems.
Job Overview – Finance Manager
- Position: Finance Manager
- Location: Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (with travel to Kilwa, Tanga, and other seascapes)
- Reports to: Executive Director
- Type: Fixed position, full-time
- Contract: 1 Year, renewable
- Grade/Salary: Grade E, AFO Salary Band 7 (competitive, with benefits)
- Start Date: Immediately
As a senior member of the Senior Management Team (SMT), the Finance Manager will play a crucial role in shaping AFO’s financial strategy, compliance, and sustainability. With a projected budget growth from USD 1.5M in 2025 to USD 5M by 2027, this role demands leadership, precision, and vision.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Finance & Governance
- Contribute to organizational strategy, planning, and risk management.
- Lead financial policy updates and compliance frameworks.
- Provide quarterly financial reports to the Board/Finance Committee.
2. Budgeting, Forecasting & Planning
- Lead annual and quarterly budget processes.
- Deliver scenario-based financial forecasting.
- Monitor cost-recovery and donor alignment.
3. Grants & Donor Compliance
- Manage proposal budgets, donor due diligence, and reporting.
- Maintain compliance matrices and sub-award management.
- Coordinate donor audits and ensure corrective action follow-up.
4. Accounting & Reporting
- Oversee monthly close and reporting cycles.
- Produce accurate management accounts and financial dashboards.
- Maintain audit-ready financial records and documentation.
5. Treasury & Cash Management
- Develop liquidity and cashflow plans.
- Manage FX strategies, bank relationships, and payment workflows.
- Monitor financial risk and propose corrective actions.
6. Statutory & Audit Compliance
- Ensure timely tax and statutory filings (TRA, NSSF, WCF).
- Lead annual audits and regulatory compliance.
7. Procurement Oversight
- Validate procurement processes for transparency and value for money.
- Ensure proper asset management and vendor performance.
8. Payroll & People Partnership
- Oversee payroll, deductions, and project allocations.
- Collaborate on compensation and staff welfare policies.
9. Systems & Automation
- Manage accounting software (QuickBooks/Sage/Xero).
- Drive automation and integration for financial efficiency.
10. Risk Management & Internal Controls
- Maintain a financial risk register and test controls.
- Train staff on compliance and fraud awareness.
11. Capacity Building
- Build financial literacy across programs and teams.
- Mentor and grow the finance team through structured development.
12. External Relations
- Liaise with auditors, donors, banks, and vendors.
- Provide finance inputs for fundraising and donor engagement.
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (Master’s an advantage).
- Professional certification: CPA(T), ACCA, or equivalent required.
- 7+ years’ experience, including at least 3 years managing a finance team in an NGO or grant-funded environment.
- Proven experience with multi-currency accounting (TZS/USD/EUR), donor compliance, and external audits.
- Advanced Excel/Google Sheets and strong knowledge of QuickBooks/Sage/Xero.
- Familiarity with IFRS/IPSAS and Tanzanian statutory requirements.
Competencies & Attributes
- Strong leadership and team collaboration skills.
- Analytical and systems-driven thinking.
- High integrity, ethical judgment, and accountability.
- Excellent communication in English and Swahili.
Work Conditions
- Based in Dar es Salaam with regular travel (20–30%) to field locations.
- Flexibility for occasional evening/weekend work during audits or reporting cycles.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary aligned with AFO’s salary bands.
- Statutory pension (NSSF), medical coverage, and applicable allowances.
- Supportive, inclusive, and values-driven work environment.
Application Process
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the position may be filled before the deadline. Application Deadline: 14th September 2025, How to Apply: Submit your application via the official link provided by AFO Below.
Why Join AFO?
At Action for Ocean, you’ll be part of a passionate team working to safeguard Tanzania’s marine ecosystems and build resilient coastal communities. If you are ready to lead with integrity and drive financial excellence in a mission-driven NGO, this role is for you Apply now and make an impact on both people and the planet.
