Assistant, Cash and Voucher Assistance

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, with a network of 191 member National Societies. The overall aim of the IFRC is “to inspire, encourage, facilitate, and promote at all times all forms of humanitarian activities by National Societies with a view to preventing and alleviating human suffering and thereby contributing to the maintenance and promotion of human dignity and peace in the world.”  The IFRC works to meet the needs and improve the lives of vulnerable people before, during and after disasters, health emergencies and other crises.  

The IFRC is part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (Movement), together with its member National Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The work of the IFRC is guided by the following fundamental principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality.  

Following the massive humanitarian impact of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica, IFRC has launched an Emergency Appeal seeking CHF 19 million (Secretariat funding requirement) to support the Jamaica Red Cross in meeting the immediate and recovery needs of the affected people. The Emergency Appeal operation is categorized as ‘Orange’, and the IFRC is strengthening its in-country presence via Rapid Response mechanism in the short term, with medium to longer-term recruitments to be done over the next few months. Consequently, in line with the IFRC Secretariat “Renewal”, the Country Office for Jamaica is being reactivated to enable closer support to Jamaica Red Cross as it implements the largest humanitarian operation in its recent history. Among the positions to be engaged in this regard is that of Cash and Voucher Assistance (CVA) Finance Assistant.

Under the supervision of the CVA Coordinator for the Jamaica response and recovery, this role ensures the effective workflow of all financial processes required for the full implementation of the CVA programme. The position serves as a key liaison between the IFRC CCD Finance Department, the Cash/Relief team in the field, and the Jamaica Red Cross, ensuring coordination, harmonization, and accountability throughout the operation. All activities will be carried out in strict adherence to IFRC and OIAI financial procedures. The incumbent will also work under the technical guidance of the Regional CVA Coordinator and follow the IFRC finance and CVA Standard Operating Procedures established for the CCD.

Financial Reconciliation & Reporting

• Carry out reconciliation exercises at agreed intervals to ensure CVA implementation, cash disbursements, and financial reporting are consistent, transparent, and accountable.
• Provide high-level financial analysis and reports for donor meetings.
• Build and update monthly forecasts and monitor cash flows.

Coordination & Planning

• Hold weekly meetings with Cash/Relief delegates to understand distribution plans and their impact on cash flow.
• Work closely with country-level finance and operations staff to ensure CVA budgets and account codes are accurately reflected.

Payment Processing

• Coordinate with the CVA Coordinator and movement subject-matter experts to advance Purchase Orders and Requests for Payment in the ERP system.
• Advise on tranche transfers to Financial Service Providers (FSPs), prepare documentation, and obtain appropriate signatures.
• Process and transmit payments to beneficiaries in accordance with established guidelines and schedules.
• Support payment issue resolution by investigating discrepancies, coordinating with internal teams, and escalating complex cases as necessary.
• Facilitate clear and timely communication with beneficiaries, including distributing eligibility updates, payment notifications, and reminder messages.

Risk Management

• Identify financial risks and controls and provide solutions.
• Handle foreign exchange conversions as necessary (OANDA).

University or professional degree in relevant field or equivalent experience (accounting)  (REQUIRED)

Courses on Project Cycle Management, CVA, Emergency Relief Response, etc. (PREFERRED)

REQUIRED

At least 5 years professional experience working on accounting, reconciliation, financial controls and risks 

At least 5 years professional experience working on planning, reporting and monitoring in a crisis/post emergency context 

Experience managing data  

Experience working with Cash and Voucher Assistance Programmes, especially with digital Financial Service Providers 

Experience working with Red Cross/Red Crescent 

PREFERRED

Experience working with partners 

REQUIRED

Self-supported in computing systems  

Strong command of Excel and ease with digital platforms 

Ability to work in a team, excellent communication, and management skills  

Ability to work in a cross-functional environment  

Excellent organizational skills and stress management skills 

Excellent customer service 

Fluently spoken and written English  

PREFERRED

Good command of another IFRC official language (French, Spanish or Arabic)