Arafat Safi

About Arafat Safi

Results-oriented ex- diplomat, operations, finance, project management and compliance professional with 17 years’ experience in operations, procurement, financial analysis, forecasting, budget realignment, audit, field office reviews, project start-up and close-out and robust experience in project cost share.> Proven ability to analyze complex information, solve problems effectively, and coach others to sustainable solutions > Experienced in working with large data sets in MS Access using queries and Excel using vlookups, pivot tables, and macros > Exceptional diplomatic skills, adeptly utilizing strategic negotiation and networking abilities to engage with diverse stakeholders, build consensus, and forge impactful alliances for achieving shared objectives in the international arena.> Fluent in five languages (English, Farsi/Dari, Pashtu, Urdu/Hindi) Diplomacy | Operations | Financial Analysis | Audit | Financial Reviews | Compliance | USAID Rules and Regulations | Budget Development/Management | Funder Reporting USG, Private and International | Cost Allowability | Forecasting | Cost Share | Account Reconciliation | Revenue Recognition | Sub-grants Management | Compliance Management | Fluent in five languages.

Experience

1. Operations and Membership Manager

   CORE Group

   Jun 2022 — Present · US

   Oversee and manage day-to-day operations to ensure smooth functioning of the organization- Manage consultants/vendors contracting, and accounts payable, ensuring accurate and timely invoicing- Plan, manage, coordinate, and facilitate events and conferences- HR management, including recruitment and onboarding processes- Draft clear and concise SOPs that detail step-by-step instructions for specific tasks, processes, or workflows- Develop and implement strategies to effectively manage the organization\'s membership program, including recruitment, engagement, and retention efforts- Ensure strict adherence to donor compliance requirements, particularly those set forth by USAID, to safeguard the organization\'s eligibility for funding- Act as the primary organizational representative to the Board of Directors, facilitating effective communication and coordination between the board and the organization\'s executive team- Work closely with the Governance Committee within the Board, assisting in developing and implementing governance policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure compliance and enhance organizational governance standards.

Education

• The University of Manchester

  Master's degree

  2014 — 2015

• The University of Kardan

  Bachelor's degree

  2008 — 2012