ORGANISATION OVERVIEW
The Science for Africa Foundation (SFA Foundation) is a non-profit, public charity organisation that supports strengthens and promotes science innovation in Africa. The goal of the SFA Foundation is to address the continent’s most pressing developmental needs by generating scientific knowledge that solves problems and informs decision-making.
We serve the African research ecosystem by funding excellent research and innovation ideas; enabling interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers, building and reinforcing environments that are conducive for scientists to thrive and producing quality research that generates new, locally relevant knowledge.
The SFA Foundation takes a holistic approach to the development of science. Our programmatic initiatives are crafted to cater to the entire science ecosystem and span across the value chain from early discovery sciences to translation sciences and target cross-cutting gaps.
Our commitment to strengthening the entire research ecosystem is reflected in the creation of major science and innovation programmes implemented through a well-established grant-making scheme, advocacy, and promotion of scientific excellence, emphasis on intra-Africa collaboration and evidence-based policymaking mechanisms.
POSITION OVERVIEW
Position Title: Finance Graduate Trainee/ Intern
Department: Finance, Grants & Procurement
Reporting To: Finance Manager/Designate
Position Location: Nairobi, Kenya
ABOUT THE GRADUATE INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME
We are seeking a bright and motivated finance graduate intern to join our dynamic team. This internship is designed to provide you with valuable hands-on experience in a professional finance setting. You will gain practical knowledge in various finance functions, develop key analytical and problem-solving skills, and contribute to meaningful programmes that impact SFA Foundation success.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Support with maintenance of accounts payable and receivable tasks as needed.
- Support in imprest and travel management
- Perform data posting, analysis and financial modelling using spreadsheets and accounting system.
- Assist with forecasting, treasury management, budgeting, and variance analysis.
- Assist with the preparation and analysis of financial reports (e.g., income statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements).
- Setting up and always maintaining a proper filing system on financial transactions.
- Audit preparation support.
- Attend team meetings and actively participate in discussions.
- Any other duty as assigned by the supervisor.
PERSON SPECIFICATIONS
Qualifications
- Recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting or Business Administration,
- Professional qualification — at least at CPA II.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially MS-Excel.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Eagerness to learn and grow in a professional environment.
Benefits
- Gain valuable hands-on experience in a real-world finance setting.
- Learn from experienced professionals and mentors.
- Develop your financial skills and knowledge.
- Network with industry professionals.
- Potential for full-time employment upon successful completion of the internship.
Personality Competencies
- Integrity
- Professionalism
- Maintain a high level of confidentiality.
- Analytical skills
- Attention to detail
Additional Information
- The internship will be full-time, running for one year
- Compensation will be in accordance with SFA Foundation policy.
Application Guidelines
Should you meet the competencies above, please submit a cover letter and a current Curriculum Vitae not exceeding 5 pages including three professional referees to
The cover letter should be no more than two pages long and explain why you are interested in this post and how your skills and experience make you a good fit. The documents should be saved in MS Word or PDF in the following format: Your First Name-Your Last Name-Document Name-Date (mmyy) e.g., DeusWan-CV-092022-SFA Foundation or Deus-Wan-CoverLetter-092022-SFA Foundation.
THE DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS FRIDAY, 5 JANUARY 2024
SFA Foundation has a commitment to safeguarding people and our environment, and this forms part of our background checks.