ESN is looking for a Finance officer with an accounting background to join our Secretariat in Brussels on a part-time basis (60%).

Working under the supervision of the Finance Manager, the Finance officer will support the financial operations and accounting systems that ensure the smooth running of the ESN Secretariat. The role involves regular collaboration with our external accounting provider, particularly around monthly closings, quarterly VAT declarations and the annual audit.

The position offers a broad exposure to non-profit accounting and European funding procedures.

Key Responsibilities 

Accounts payable & receivable

• Process supplier invoices, staff reimbursements, and follow up on customers.
• Follow up on outstanding items, supplier payments, direct debits, resolving discrepancies as required.
• Record and verify invoices in Clearfacts / WinBooks.
• Maintain accurate and updated tracking of accounts receivable / payable ageing reports.

Accounting

• Maintain accurate accounting records (in Winbooks) and support document filing.
• Prepare regular expense reports.
• Reconcile monthly credit cards statements.• Assist in maintaining accounting files ready for audit.
• Provide support with other financial and administrative tasks as required.

Banking & treasury

• Reconcile bank statements with accounting records (purchase and sales invoices).
• Prepare and execute payments in line with internal procedures.
• Monitor cash balances and support the Finance & HR Manager in monitoring ESN’s liquidity position.

Month- & Year-end closings

• Support monthly and annual closing procedures.
• Assist with journal entries, accruals, prepayments and account reconciliations.
• Contribute to the preparation of periodic and annual financial statements.
• Support the year-end closing process and preparation for the annual audit.

Tax, compliance & internal controls

• Assist the external accountant with quarterly VAT declarations and other tax submissions.
• Support compliance with financial regulations, internal procedures, and external audit requirements.
• Ensure accurate documentation in line with Belgian accounting standards.

This list of duties is not exhaustive, and other duties may be required commensurate with the role.

Qualifications 

Education & experience

• Degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance or a related field.
• 1-3 years of relevant accounting experience in a non-profit organisation (a.s.b.l.)

Communication & interpersonal skills

• Excellent written and spoken English, ESN’s working language.
• Fluency in French is essential for communication with Belgian authorities.
• Knowledge of other European languages is an asset.
• Strong interpersonal skills and collaborative mindset. 

Organisational & Professional

• Strong time-management skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently with initiative and reliability.
• Familiarity with accounting software such as Winbooks (or similar), ClearFacts and Billit.
• Ability to prioritise a varied workload in a structured and efficient manner.• High levels of autonomy, integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Experience with CRM systems and membership-based organisations is an asset.

What we offer

A part-time one-year contract (60%), renewable and with the possibility of conversion to a permanent following a performance assessment.

A friendly, multidisciplinary, and multicultural working environment.

A competitive remuneration package, including:   

• Salary commensurate with experience and role.
• Double holiday pay and year-end salary.
• Lunch vouchers, transportation allowance, Internet allowance, laptop, medical insurance (including hospitalisation, consultations, and medication), and eco-vouchers.
• Additional annual leave, seniority leave and Christmas.
• Opportunities for professional development.

How to apply 

Please, submit your application in English, to Mr. Alvaro Sanchez, Finance & HR Manager, at recruitment@esn-eu.org. 

Please include the following:
1. A single PDF file (maximum 3 pages), with your cover letter and CV explaining your motivation and suitability for the role.

2. Email subject: ESN Finance officer (accounting) – Your Name and Surname

3. An indication of where you found this vacancy.

Recruitment Process

Application deadline: October 2nd @ midnight.

Expected start date: Mid-October 2026

If interested apply early as we may interview on a rolling basis. Selection process includes online and on-site interviews, and practical tests

Applicants must hold valid work and residence documentation for Belgium.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Equal Opportunities Statement 

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates, particularly those from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds, diverse ethnicities, or differing abilities.

The European Social Network is committed to treating all employees and applicants fairly and equally, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, marital status, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion, age, disability, trade union membership status or any other characteristic.

Candidate details will be retained on a reserve list for six months. If you wish to have your data removed sooner, please contact us.