The Finance and Administration (F&A) Start-Up Lead will be responsible for supporting STS in the start-up of the office, staff, project operations and planning for an initial workplanning workshop for an anticipated donor-funded project in Belize. S/he will provide financial, administrative, logistical and procurement support as directed by the STS.
Please note: This consultancy is contingent upon the finalization of an agreement between STS and the donor.
The F&A Start-Up Lead will collaborate with STS staff on a short-term startup trip to Belize to:
- Logistics coordination: Manage day-to-day logistical needs including transportation, domestic and international travel arrangements, activity payments, and event planning, including for a project launch event and week-long workplanning workshop
- Vendor and services sourcing: Identify and engage local service providers, legal counsel, banking institutions, audit firms, and other operational partners required for project start-up based on recommendations from in-country NGOs
- Office establishment and administration: Lead the set-up and operationalization of project office space, including site identification, procurement of furniture and equipment, asset tracking, and ongoing administrative support
- Staff support: Assist with recruitment processes and coordinate housing and logistical support for expatriate and local staff
- Reporting and communication: Participate in regular team meetings and provide consistent progress updates through shared project documentation
- Other duties as assigned by supervisor
The consultant will be required to submit a report detailing his/her accomplished tasks within 5 days of completing the assignment.
Preferred Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field; advanced degree or professional certification (CPA, ACCA, or equivalent) a plus
- Prior experience supporting project start-up or organizational establishment, including office setup, asset management, and procurement
- Familiarity with donor compliance requirements and financial management systems commonly used in international development contexts
- Demonstrated experience in vendor sourcing, contract negotiations, and engaging local service providers (legal, banking, audit, logistics)
- Experience coordinating logistics for workshops, trainings, or large-scale events, including travel and accommodation arrangements
- Familiarity with Belizean regulatory, banking, and legal environment strongly preferred; existing professional networks with local service providers an advantage
- Experience supporting recruitment processes and providing administrative onboarding support for local and expatriate staff
- Proficiency in financial tracking and reporting; experience maintaining asset registers and procurement documentation
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to produce clear progress reports and maintain shared project documentation
- Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced start-up environment
- Experience working with U.S.-based nonprofit or international organizations preferred
Term of Agreement
This consulting agreement is estimated to commence in September 2026 and conclude by November 2026. A candidate who demonstrates success in this role may be considered for a long-term staff position on the project.
Place of Performance
Consultant shall perform services in Belize City, Belize with potential travel within and outside of the city.