Application Guide
How to Apply for Consultancy: Third Party External Audit- Lebanon and Syria
at HelpAge International
🏢 About HelpAge International
HelpAge International is a global network dedicated to improving the lives of older people, a unique focus that sets it apart in the humanitarian sector. Working here means contributing to a cause that is often overlooked, with a strong advocacy component and a presence in over 99 countries.
About This Role
This consultancy involves conducting an independent external audit of GFFO-funded projects in Lebanon and Syria, ensuring financial compliance with donor regulations and local laws. The role is impactful because it directly supports accountability and transparency in humanitarian aid, helping to maintain trust with donors and beneficiaries.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day involves reviewing financial records and transaction logs from project offices in Lebanon and Syria, conducting virtual meetings with local finance teams to clarify discrepancies, and drafting sections of the audit report. You might also analyze bank statements for compliance and prepare recommendations for the management letter.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who HelpAge International Is Looking For
- An independent auditor or firm recognized under GAAS and a member of IFAC or a similar professional body.
- Proven experience auditing non-profit/humanitarian projects, specifically with GFFO funding.
- In-depth knowledge of financial regulations and tax compliance in Lebanon and Syria.
- Ability to apply ISA or IDW Auditing Standards and issue a formal audit opinion and management letter.
📝 Tips for Applying to HelpAge International
Highlight any prior experience with GFFO-funded projects explicitly in your CV and cover letter.
Demonstrate your knowledge of local regulations in Lebanon and Syria by mentioning specific laws or compliance challenges you've navigated.
Provide examples of audit reports you've issued for similar humanitarian projects, emphasizing the management letter recommendations.
If applying as a firm, specify the lead auditor's qualifications and experience with HelpAge or similar NGOs.
Show your independence and objectivity by disclosing any potential conflicts of interest upfront.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Emphasize your experience with GFFO-funded projects and familiarity with their specific audit requirements.', 'Highlight your knowledge of Lebanese and Syrian financial regulations and tax compliance.', 'Mention your ability to apply ISA or IDW standards and issue clear, actionable audit reports.', "Express commitment to HelpAge's mission and understanding of the importance of accountability in humanitarian work."]
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review HelpAge's annual reports and strategic plans to understand their focus on older people.
- → Familiarize yourself with the GFFO (German Federal Foreign Office) funding guidelines and audit requirements.
- → Research the current economic and regulatory environment in Lebanon and Syria, especially for NGOs.
- → Look into HelpAge's previous audits or financial reports to see the types of issues typically addressed.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic audit CV without tailoring it to humanitarian or GFFO-specific experience.
- Failing to demonstrate knowledge of local regulations in Lebanon and Syria, which is critical for this role.
- Not clarifying your independence or potential conflicts of interest, which can raise concerns about objectivity.
📅 Application Timeline
⏰ Deadline: June 20, 2026
We recommend applying at least a few days early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to HelpAge International!