Operations, Compliance, and Finance Director – USAID Feed the Future Sylhet Agricultural Development Project
Location: Dhaka or Sylhet, Bangladesh

About Abt Global

Abt Global is a mission-driven global leader in research, evaluation, and program implementation across international development sectors such as health, agriculture, governance, and economic growth. With a reputation for providing high-quality, evidence-based solutions, Abt Global works to tackle the most complex development challenges by partnering with governments, international donors, and civil society organizations.

Abt Bangladesh is part of Abt Global’s commitment to fostering sustainable development across South Asia. Our work in Bangladesh spans various sectors, focusing on food security, climate resilience, economic growth, and health systems strengthening. By leveraging our expertise in technical innovation, research, and project implementation, Abt Bangladesh has been instrumental in delivering impactful programs that address the country's pressing development needs.

Position Overview

Abt Global seeks an Operations, Compliance and Finance Director for an anticipated USAID Feed the Future Sylhet Agricultural Development Project. This role will provide leadership in managing the project’s operations, finance, and compliance functions to ensure efficient project implementation. The position will be responsible for financial oversight, procurement, grants management, and human resources, ensuring all activities align with USAID regulations and Abt Global’s policies.

The Director will supervise the operations, finance, and administrative teams, ensuring compliance with all relevant procedures and regulations. Additionally, the Director will work closely with the Chief of Party and Deputy Chief of Party to support budget management, operational logistics, and ensure that project expenditures remain within budget.

Primary Responsibilities
Operations Management:

• Oversee the day-to-day operational functions of the project’s office, ensuring efficient and timely delivery of services including procurement, logistics, human resources, IT, and security.
• Develop and implement office policies and procedures that comply with Abt Global policies and local Bangladeshi laws.
• Ensure compliance with USAID and Abt Global policies in all areas, including procurement, finance, and human resources.

Financial Management:

• Oversee project budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring all financial activities comply with USAID rules, regulations, and Abt Global procedures.
• Manage the preparation and timely submission of financial reports, ensuring accuracy and proper documentation.
• Ensure proper management of cash flow, payments, and reconciliations, while monitoring budget burn rates and making financial projections in collaboration with the Chief of Party.
• Supervise the accurate and compliant processing of payroll, benefits, and allowances for project staff, ensuring adherence to Bangladeshi labor laws and USAID regulations.
• Review and approve all payments, ensuring that all financial documentation is in place and meets contractual and legal requirements.

Procurement and Compliance:

• Supervise procurement activities, including the development of purchase order contracts and consultant agreements, ensuring all procurements comply with USAID regulations and Abt Global procurement policies.
• Monitor contracts and ensure that consultants, subcontractors, and vendors operate within their agreed Level of Effort and Period of Performance.
• Oversee inventory management and asset tracking, ensuring that project assets are properly documented, labeled, and managed in compliance with Abt Global property procedures.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Ensure full compliance with USAID regulations, particularly 2 CFR 200, and Abt Global policies.
• Implement and maintain strong internal controls to prevent fraud and mitigate risks.
• Conduct regular reviews of project financial records, procurement processes, and operational activities to ensure compliance.
• Ensure that the project complies with local laws and regulations, including tax, labor, and financial reporting requirements.

Team Leadership:

• Lead and supervise the finance, operations, HR, and administrative staff, providing training, mentorship, and capacity-building support to ensure high-quality performance.
• Foster a positive and productive work environment that promotes teamwork, collaboration, and innovation among staff.
• Coordinate with the Chief of Party and Deputy Chief of Party to ensure that operational and financial management supports the technical delivery of the project.

Security and Logistics:

• Manage the security of the project office and ensure all staff adhere to security protocols.
• Oversee logistical arrangements for project events, meetings, and field activities, ensuring all logistical needs are met and approvals are in place.

Collaboration with Home Office:

• Work closely with the home office on all financial, procurement, and operational matters, ensuring timely communication and resolution of issues.
• Provide regular updates to home office staff regarding project operations, procurement activities, grants, and financial status.

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field required.
• Master’s degree or professional certifications (e.g., CPA, ACCA) preferred.

Experience:

• At least 7 years of experience in financial management, operations, and compliance for international development projects, with at least 5 years in a USAID-funded project.
• Minimum 3 years of experience managing teams, with strong capacity-building skills.
• Extensive knowledge of USAID regulations, including 2 CFR 200, and experience implementing USAID-compliant financial and operational systems.
• Proven experience managing procurement processes and overseeing grant programs.
• Previous experience working in Bangladesh or South Asia preferred.

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong financial management and reporting skills, with proficiency in QuickBooks and Microsoft Excel.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities, with keen attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under tight deadlines.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to mentor and build capacity in junior staff.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; fluency in Bangla preferred.

Application Instructions