Financial management for development professionals
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Financial management for development professionals
9 June–25 July 2025
The course is available in English
Introduction to the course
Financial management of development projects is more than an administrative and control function. Sound financial management is a critical prerequisite for successful project implementation. Timely and accurate financial information is essential for effective decision-making, as well as for corrective action by project management to improve the prospects of timely completion within the planned project budget and scope of deliverables. Sound project financial management provides the essential information needed by those who manage, implement and monitor projects, including government oversight agencies and financing institutions. It also provides assurance to recipient countries, lenders and the donor community that funds have been used efficiently and for the intended purpose, and acts as a deterrent to fraud and corruption by providing internal controls and the ability to quickly identify unusual occurrences and variances. By acquiring the skills needed to set up the various components of an integrated project financial management system, with appropriate modules/procedures for planning and budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, internal control, audit, procurement and disbursement, you will be able to position yourself as a certified and credible project financial officer.
Who attends this course?
Financial officers and assistants; project finance officers; administrative and financial assistants; senior project assistants; disbursement specialists; project accountants and assistants; financial management specialists; accounts managers.
Why a financial management course?
Good project financial management is essential if development cooperation projects are to achieve their objectives. Well planned, organised and executed project financial management also builds confidence by demonstrating to stakeholders that adequate governance arrangements are in place.
What will I learn?
- Understand the fundamental definitions, concepts, boundaries, implications and standards of project financial management
- Prepare and present the project budget in accordance with the agreed accounting system(s) and identify key stakeholders involved in project financial management.
- Understand the legal, operational and financial implications of the project financing or funding agreement(s) on project implementation and financial reporting.
- Operate the project financial system: managing stakeholders, collecting and using financial data, managing budget changes, fiduciary risks and financial controls.
- Develop a bespoke project financial management system, identify computerized solutions and systems, and develop a project operations manual.
- Apply soft skills and knowledge to understand and manage project-related financial challenges, contingencies and issues
- Adopt a lifelong learning paradigm for project financial management
What will I be able to do?
Participants will be able to competently design and operate project financial management systems and make corresponding payments/disbursements in accordance with sound professional standards and the harmonized requirements of donors and their respective governments.
Participants who successfully complete the training can expect to improve or enhance their knowledge and skills and be able to:
- Explain the principles, definitions and concepts of project financial management:
- Capture financial parameters in core project documents to the design the financial management system
- Customize the project financial system
- Operate the project financial system: budgeting, monitoring, controlling and reporting
- Close the project financially and coordinate auditors
- Identify ethical challenges and applying soft skills in managing project finances
What certification will I get as a successful candidate?
- On successful completion of the programme, you will receive a certificate demonstrating your advanced proficiency in managing project finances in development work.
- This certificate not only provides proof of your knowledge and skills but also showcases your dedication to advancing your career.
- The end-of-programme project, a review of your own and unique financial system, will provide you with a unique addition to your CV.
- With these accomplishments, you will stand out to potential employers as a valuable asset.
Why should I join?
The certification programme is organised in a blended modality. It includes a distance-learning phase followed by a one-week workshop in Turin on the United Nations Campus under the umbrella of the 2023 Development Cooperation Academy (see below). Once participants have completed the workshop, they will then work remotely with the assistance of an expert on a final project and receive their certification. The entire programme consists of approximately 60
The 2024 Development Cooperation Academy
Join us this year at the Development Cooperation Academy, featuring the theme: “EMPOWERING DEVELOPMENT: TOWARDS JUST TRANSITIONS AND SOCIAL JUSTICE”. Our workshop in Turin is a pivotal part of this Academy's blended certification programme, bringing together participants and leading experts in the field.
During the Academy, participants will engage in an enriching workshop experience and have the chance to join a global forum each day. These forums focus on various aspects related to our theme, providing a platform for in-depth discussion and exchange of ideas.
Attending the Development Cooperation Academy is an exceptional opportunity for networking, gaining advanced knowledge, and embracing innovation in the realm of development cooperation. It's a chance for personal growth and for expanding your professional and technical understanding in line with the latest trends in the field.
Throughout the programme, participants will collaborate to explore and understand the concepts of Just Transitions and Social Justice from a global perspective. This experience is not just about learning; it’s about contributing to a broader, more inclusive conversation on development and playing a part in shaping a just global future.
