Sara A.
Senior Finance and Administration Manager
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Sara A. is a seasoned Finance and Administration professional with over 15 years of experience in managing financial operations, budgeting, HR, procurement, and administration for international NGOs. Having held prominent roles at Democracy Reporting International and other significant organizations, she has expertly managed projects funded by notable entities like GIZ, UNDP, and the World Bank. Sara excelled as a Director of Finance and Administration and as a Finance and Administration Manager, where she led comprehensive financial planning, compliance with donor regulations, and strategic budget management. Her responsibilities included overseeing procurement, legal compliance, HR management, and supporting organizational development. At Terre des Hommes – Italy and the Handicap International Federation, Sara demonstrated her prowess in financial reporting, budget modifications, and maintaining stakeholder relationships. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and is proficient in accounting software such as Microsoft Business Central and SAGA.
Experience
Director of Finance and Administration
Democracy Reporting International · 2024 — 2025Oversaw all financial and administrative systems, ensuring compliance with donor regulations, Lebanese law, and German bookkeeping standards. Directed comprehensive budget management and audit processes for all projects funded by GIZ, UNDP, and other organizations. Supervised the Finance and Administration Unit, managing financial reporting and control activities. Implemented Microsoft Business Central to improve financial management and budget oversight. Led procurement, legal, and compliance procedures aligned with internal policies and donor requirements. Managed HR functions including contract administration and recruitment. Acted as Deputy Security Focal Point, focusing on risk mitigation strategies.Finance and Administration Manager
Democracy Reporting International · 2017 — 2024Reviewed and submitted financial reports to headquarters regularly while maintaining updated budget monitoring tools. Developed activity-based budgets and budget amendments tailored to donor specifications. Managed accounting records, including cash flow forecasting for wire transfers. Ensured the accuracy of procurement documentation in compliance with organizational standards. Provided financial training to subgrantees and project partners. Updated the Master Budget and prepared payroll while ensuring compliance with statutory requirements. Facilitated onboarding and offboarding HR processes using Personio. Acted as the primary liaison for external financial stakeholders.National Administrator – Finance Officer
Terre des Hommes – Italy · 2013 — 2017Managed finances for projects backed by UNHCR, UNICEF, and other organizations. Prepared HR documentation including contracts and payroll slips. Developed financial plans and adjusted budgets to meet project requirements. Handled daily cash and bank operations, including reconciliations and payments. Ensured the procurement process adhered to UNHCR guidelines. Managed the SAGA accounting system and prepared monthly financial reports along with VAT claims for the Ministry of Finance. Assisted the Project Manager by addressing audit inquiries and providing necessary financial information.Finance Officer
Handicap International Federation · 2013 — 2013Ensured compliance with financial procedures by reviewing bills, purchase orders, and quotations. Managed petty cash and working advances to maintain cash flow. Organized daily cash and bank expenditures within the AlphaK software, ensuring proper documentation and coding. Conducted weekly cash reconciliations and monthly account closures while preparing documentation for managerial review. Addressed discrepancies in accounting records based on feedback, contributing to internal and partner audits. Coordinated with logistics to keep track of purchasing, services, and equipment.Finance Officer
The Netherlands Red Cross & Palestinian Red Crescent Society · 2008 — 2013Prepared monthly financial reports, including Profit and Loss and Balance Sheet statements. Developed annual reports and budgets while advising management on critical financial matters. Audited daily transaction books to ensure accuracy and compliance with financial standards. Maintained real-time reports on cash flow and participated in financial audits and inventory counts. Calculated service costs to aid in financial planning and analysis.
Skills & Expertise
Education
- Bachelor's Degree in Business ManagementArts, Sciences and Technology University in Lebanon · 2010 — Present
- Baccalaureate in EconomicsAl Galilee High School · 2006 — Present
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