Financial-Administrative Manager (FAM)

Join a Groundbreaking Horizon Europe Project!

The Hydrogen Centre of Excellence (CoE) at Trakia University (TrU) in Stara Zagora, developed under the Horizon Europe-funded H2Start project, is seeking a Financial-Administrative Manager (FAM) to join our dynamic team.

About the Role

As a Financial-Administrative Manager, you will play a key role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the H2Start project. You will support the Scientific Coordinator in monitoring and executing work packages and tasks, ensuring compliance with financial and administrative regulations. You will collaborate with interdisciplinary teams from both industry and academia.

Key Responsibilities

Project Coordination & Execution

• Support the Scientific Coordinator and Work Package/Task Leaders in the day-to-day administration of the H2Start project.
• Ensure compliance with the Grant Agreement (GA), Consortium Agreement (CA), and Work Plan.
• Oversee project progress, ensuring milestones and deliverables are met on time.

Financial & Administrative Management

• Handle budget planning, financial reporting, and cost tracking in line with Horizon Europe guidelines.
• Ensure accurate and timely financial administration and documentation.
• Manage complementary funding, financial and investment planning, and business model development.
• Ensure the project meets all regulatory and reporting requirements.

Communication & Compliance

• Assist the Scientific Coordinator in developing the sustainability roadmap and scalability strategy for the infrastructure.
• Strengthen partnerships and collaborations within the project.
• Support the preparation of project proposals.
• Demonstrate a willingness to learn and adapt to new areas.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in finance, law, accounting, economics, audit, business administration, technical sciences, entrepreneurship, or a related field.
• At least 7 years of professional experience in a relevant financial or administrative role.
• Strong oral and written English communication skills to engage both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Proven experience managing financial aspects of EU grants and/or tenders.
• Strong analytical skills for evaluating financial data and preparing reports.
• Knowledge of EU budget sources and EU funding programs, particularly in research and development.
• Familiarity with European Union institutions and their funding structures.

Additional Assets

• Experience using data management tools or project management software (including open-source tools).
• Knowledge of risk analysis and mitigation strategies.
• Background in managing EU-funded research projects.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to meet tight deadlines while maintaining high-quality work.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work in diverse teams.
• Resilience, team spirit, and ability to work independently.
• Understanding of EU project planning principles.
• Familiarity with non-academic collaborations and knowledge transfer activities.
• Strong financial management skills and practical knowledge of EU financial rules.

Position Start Date

The position is available from March/April 2025 onwards. Flexible start dates may be considered.

Why Work in Stara Zagora?

Historically known as an energy hub centered around the coal-powered Maritza East Energy Center, Stara Zagora is transitioning to a clean energy future. This shift is driven by renewable energy and large-scale hydrogen production and storage.

The ZAHYR Hydrogen Valley, funded by Horizon Europe, is at the heart of this transformation. By joining the H2Start project, you will play a significant role in this transition while working in a dynamic and forward-thinking environment that supports your career growth.

Salary & Benefits