Financial Officer – Accounting Policy

World Bank Group • Washington, DC

7d

About The Position

The WBG Controllers VPU is responsible for all aspects of the financial reporting, internal control framework for the WBG, and the extensive Trust Fund/Partnership portfolio across WBG entities. It supports an appropriate fiduciary control framework and administers WBG’s financial operations and leads the client service function for WBG’s corporate expenses. Organizationally, the WBG Controllers VPU is comprised of three departments: (1) Corporate Accounting and Reporting, (2) Trust Funds and Loans, and (3) Financial Operations. The VPU’s mandate encompasses support for both internal and external clients, with a focus on delivery, optimization, impact, and people & culture.

WBG Accounting Policy and Implementation Unit

Operating within the WBG Corporate Accounting and Reporting Department, the Accounting Policy and Implementation Unit serves as the central authority for accounting policy development and advisory across all WBG entities. The unit is responsible for establishing and maintaining policies that ensure compliance with US GAAP, evaluating the impact of new products and accounting standards on financial statements of WBG entities, and providing technical accounting support to other units and departments within the WBG. The unit collaborates closely with independent external auditors to ensure that all issued accounting policies are fully aligned with US GAAP requirements.

The WBG Accounting Policy and Implementation unit seeks a technical accounting professional with US GAAP and/or IFRS experience to serve as an Accounting Policy Officer in Washington, DC. The position will operate under the supervision of the Manager of the WBG Accounting Policy and Implementation Unit.

Requirements

• Qualified candidates should at a minimum hold a bachelors in finance or equivalent with a professional certification (CFA, FRM, CPA, CA) or equivalent certification and have a minimum of 8 years related experience.
• Demonstrated detailed technical accounting knowledge and experience with US GAAP.
• Proven ability to analyze and interpret complex financial instruments and related transactions.
• Proficiency in using digital tools and technologies to enhance productivity and support decision-making processes, by leveraging technology.
• Familiarity with best practices in internal controls over external financial reporting.
• Strong analytical skills and project management experience.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and oral.
• Ability to communicate complex accounting and financial concepts to diverse, often non-technical audiences, and effectively influence decision-making.
• Ability to take initiative and anticipate and respond quickly to emerging situations.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to coordinate workflows and provide guidance to colleagues to ensure work is completed accurately and on time.

Nice To Haves

• Preference to applicants with a background in the financial services industry, particularly in Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs), Big Four or equivalent public accounting experience.

Responsibilities

• Monitor US GAAP developments.
• Prepare accounting policies under US GAAP.
• Review Financial Statements and Management Discussion and Analysis
• Assess accounting requirements and develop, implement, and oversee accounting policy preparation for Blended Finance initiatives (e.g., EC programs administered by IFC as an implementing partner), ensuring compliance with IPSAS.
• Lead / facilitate the implementation efforts new products/initiatives and actively participate in their implementation.
• Develop and implement strategies to streamline and simplify IFC investment contract review process.
• Provide oversight of Investment Accounting activities and the contract review process, while supervising staff and managing external contractors.
• Mentor team members ensuring professional growth, strengthening the talent pipeline, and contributing to their career development.
• Liaise with the external auditors.
• Establish and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with various internal stakeholders to understand the business, new initiatives and ensure timely exchange of information.

Benefits

• The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan; medical, life and disability insurance; and paid leave, including parental leave, as well as reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees