School-to-School International F&A Start-up Lead: Belize Remote · Contractor Company website

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.

About School-to-School International

School-to-School International (STS) is a nonprofit organization based in California, USA. STS is committed to improving the lives and learning of girls and boys worldwide through thoughtful research, practice, and partnership. Since 2002, our team has partnered with individuals, government ministries, non-governmental organizations, foundations, and research institutions to improve children’s education. We have worked in over 50 countries supporting education evaluation and research; curriculum and training; and policy and planning.

Description

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.