Main purpose of job:

The Corporate Services (CS) Team is responsible for the efficient and professional day-to-day running of the British Embassy in Santiago.
The Finance Officer is a key member of the team and reports directly to the Deputy Corporate Services Manager (DCSM) delivering a wide range of streamlined and efficient finance and accounts processes.

Roles and responsibilities:

Ensure all finance and Purchase to Pay (P2P) procurement processes are followed in line with policies and guidelines, including timely supplier and staff payments, reconciliations, and official bank liaison, completing finance returns to the Regional Finance Hub, the Global Transaction Processing Centre (GTPC) and our London Head Office.

Accounting:

• Ensure bank account balances are maintained at optimal level. Monitor bank balances, return/request funds to/from the UK as necessary. Maintain a good relationship with local banks.
• Assist CSM in ensuring compliance with correct accounting procedures and that Financial Performance and Compliance Indicators are met.
  
• In charge of two cash boxes (CLP and USD): Administration and monitoring of the replenishment of the cash boxes for the Embassy and Residence.
  
• Ensure appropriate cash box balances are kept by processing transfer of funds from local bank.
  
• Prepare payment register. Review documents.
  
• Process all bank wire payments (national and international) and elaboration of cheques for payment to suppliers.
  
• Work with Residence manager on Income Generation procedures.

Finance:  

• Support the DCSM and CSM with budget management and financial planning.
  
• Coordinate budget tracking and availability for events and visits, like: King’s Birthday Party, Royal Visits or VVIP visits that involve across Embassy coordination.
  
• Provide financial guidance to Embassy staff.
  
• Prepare returns to the UK and Hub, like: MTFP, OAR, Fixed asset report, etc.

Salaries:  

• Be in charge of processing monthly salaries.
  
• Process social securities for local staff.
  
• Prepare salary related reports including annual income certificates for staff.

General section support: 

• Corporate Services is a multidisciplinary team that covers many areas like Human Resources, Estates management, Protocol, IT, etc. The officer might be asked to support other areas occasionally if operations demand it.

Essential on arrival:

• Intermediate level of Microsoft office (mainly Excel and Word).
• Experience on salary processing.
• Must have the legal status to live and work in Chile.

Language requirements: 

Language: English and Spanish

Level of language required: Intermediate written and Spoken