ACCOUNTING MANAGER (F/M/D)

About the job

The Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies is looking for a:

ACCOUNTING MANAGER (F/M/D)

Department: Accounting

Contract: Permanent contract

Work rate: 80-100%

Application deadline: 16 October 2026

Start date: To be agreed

About the Institute:

The Geneva Graduate Institute , founded in 1927, is a globally recognised centre of excellence for the study of international relations and development. Located in Geneva, Switzerland, the institute offers a stimulating, multicultural and interdisciplinary academic environment. It provides master’s and doctoral programmes and conducts cutting-edge research on major global challenges.

About the Department:

The Accounting and Finance Department of the IHEID (Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies) is responsible for the financial and accounting management of the Institute. It ensures budget monitoring, management of financial flows and compliance of transactions with current standards. The department works closely with various departments, programmes, research centres and services to optimise resources and guarantee financial transparency.

Your role:

Within the Accounting Department, the Accounting Manager is responsible for the accounting management and financial monitoring of the programmes and projects under their responsibility. In collaboration with various internal stakeholders, they ensure the quality of accounts, compliance with contractual requirements and the conformity of financial operations. They also support programme and project managers on accounting, tax and regulatory matters.

Your main responsibilities:

Manage the accounting of the programmes and projects you are responsible for. Analyse and monitor financing and service contracts. Assess the accounting, tax and regulatory impacts of contractual commitments.

• Validate expenses, income, salary commitments and consultant contracts.
• Prepare budget projections and ensure financial monitoring of projects.
• Produce periodic financial reports and ensure their compliance.
• Coordinate external audits of projects in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
• Advise research centres on accounting, tax and regulatory issues.
• Participate in financial closings and continuous improvement of accounting procedures.

To succeed in this role you should:

• Hold a degree in accounting or an equivalent qualification.
• Have 3 to 5 years of experience in a similar role, with excellent mastery of accounting processes.
• Possess good knowledge of Swiss taxation (VAT); knowledge of contract law is an asset.
• Be proficient in Microsoft Office tools (Excel, advanced level); knowledge of the ERP Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is an asset.
• Be fluent in French and English, both spoken and written (native in one language and minimum B2 level in the other).
• Demonstrate rigour, confidentiality, autonomy and organisation, while having excellent analytical and synthesis skills, a client-oriented approach and a strong team spirit.

What we can offer you:

• Work with a large international community of users from diverse backgrounds.
• Interesting position with varied tasks.
• Good atmosphere in a small team.
• At the heart of international Geneva.

Our recruitment process if you are selected:

• You will be contacted by email to complete an assessment.
• An interview at the Institute or via video call (depending on your place of residence) with Human Resources to better understand your motivations and personal skills.
• A final interview with the supervisor who will be happy to answer your more job-oriented questions.

How to apply?

We invite you to submit a complete application in PDF format with the following documents:

1) a cover letter

2) a CV

3) diplomas

4) work certificates

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity within our company. We do not discriminate based on age, marital status, disability, race, national origin, colour, sex, sexual orientation or religion.

For more information, candidates are invited to consult the Institute’s website: graduateinstitute.ch  

Please note that applications received by post will not be considered.