About the Western Development Commission (WDC)
The WDC is a statutory body whose role is to promote the social and economic development of the western region of Ireland. We work with stakeholders to support sustainable and inclusive growth in the region, and have a strong track record of delivering impactful initiatives and programmes.
Culture at the WDC
We are committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment where employees can thrive and make a difference. Our culture is defined by teamwork, innovation, and a deep sense of purpose. We value diversity, respect for different perspectives, and a willingness to learn and grow.
Purpose of Position
Under the direction of the Financial Controller, the Finance Officer will work as part of the Corporate Services team to support the financial reporting process in the WDC. This post will involve processing financial transactions, compiling financial reports & submissions, assisting with the budgeting process, maintaining the financial system, including internal controls and procedures, and other ad hoc project duties as required.
- Ensure all financial transactions are recorded accurately and completely in a timely manner.
- Assist with the preparation of monthly accounts and financial reports in line with reporting requirements and deadlines.
- Process Revenue returns (Payroll, PSWT, VAT etc.).
- Prepare financial returns for submission to the parent department and other statutory bodies.
- Prepare the monthly payroll & pension reports.
- Compile financial information to support EU funding claims.
- Support the preparation of annual Financial Statements in line with applicable standards and regulations.
- Assist with the preparation and management of budgets, forecasts, and such financial or other submissions as may be required.
- Respond promptly and comprehensively to all relevant requests for financial information.
Accounts Management
- Maintain the Accounts Payable function, including processing purchase orders, credit card transactions, and invoices.
- Maintain the Accounts Receivable function, including invoicing and receipts.
- Ensure supplier payments are made in a timely manner in line with prompt payments.
- Assist with Treasury activities and prepare bank reconciliations for all accounts.
- Liaise internally and externally to resolve invoicing issues, accounting discrepancies, and other financial related issues.
Internal Controls & Compliance
- Support and participate in the on-going review and improvement of the system of internal financial controls within the WDC.
- Promote and ensure all financial practices and procedures are correctly implemented in line with WDC policies.
- Assist with and engage in C&AG and internal audits.
Budgeting & Expenditure
- Provide support to other departments in relation to planning and managing budgets and expenditure.
- Prepare quarterly drawdowns for the parent department in accordance with funding schedules.
ESG Integration
- Incorporate ESG factors into financial reporting and decision making, ensuring compliance with sustainability goals.
Administrative Support
- Provide administrative assistance to the Corporate Services team.
- Carry out all other duties as required and participate as a full member of the Corporate Services team by supporting different work projects, as required, from time to time.
Eligibility Criteria and Experience
- Essential: A Third level Finance related degree (minimum QQI Level 7) or equivalent Finance / Accountancy professional qualification, and a minimum of 3 years experience working in a similar financial management role, including processing a wide variety of financial transactions, month end accounts preparations, payroll processing, accounts payable processing, participation in financial audits and internal audits, completing Revenue returns, well-developed IT skills, detail-oriented, and strong analytical, numeracy, and problem-solving skills, and strong interpersonal skills, with a self-starter ability to prioritise workload and deliver on targets both as an individual and as part of a team.
- Desirable: Knowledge of Irish and EU public procurement and financial procedures, previous experience of working in the public sector, proven experience of working remotely, fully qualified accountant, or part-qualified working towards achieving a full qualification.
Key Competencies
- For effective performance at this level, the candidate will need to demonstrate that they possess the key competencies for effective performance at Executive Officer level, including People Management, Analysis & Decision Making, Delivery of Results, Interpersonal & Communication Skills, Specialist Knowledge, Expertise & Self Development, Drive & Commitment to Public Service Values.