Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced, highly organized and results-driven Chief Accountant to oversee the organization's accounting and financial management functions.
The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, preparing financial reports, managing budgets and cash flow, ensuring statutory and regulatory compliance, strengthening internal controls, and providing management with reliable financial information for effective decision-making.
The Chief Accountant will also supervise the accounting team and ensure that all financial activities are conducted in accordance with applicable accounting standards, tax regulations and the organization's policies and procedures.
Current Nigerian Chief Accountant vacancies commonly place responsibility for general ledger operations, financial reporting, reconciliations, budgeting, taxation, audits, internal controls and team supervision at this level.
Key Responsibilities
Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Finance and Accounts Department.
Maintain accurate and complete accounting records, including general ledgers, journals, accounts payable and accounts receivable.
Prepare and review monthly, quarterly and annual financial statements.
Coordinate month-end and year-end financial closing processes.
Ensure timely preparation of management accounts and financial reports.
Prepare and monitor annual budgets, forecasts and cash-flow projections.
Conduct budget-versus-actual analysis and investigate significant variances.
Monitor the organization's cash flow, working capital and financial position.
Ensure timely bank reconciliations and resolution of outstanding reconciliation items.
Review payment requests, invoices, receipts and other financial documentation for accuracy and compliance.
Maintain proper records of company assets and oversee the fixed asset register.
Ensure appropriate accounting treatment and reconciliation of inventory where applicable.
Develop, implement and monitor effective internal financial controls.
Ensure timely preparation and filing of statutory tax returns, including VAT, WHT, PAYE and Company Income Tax.
Liaise with tax authorities, external auditors, banks and other financial institutions when required.
Coordinate internal and external audit activities and provide requested schedules and supporting documentation.
Monitor audit findings and ensure that agreed corrective actions are implemented.
Review payroll and ensure that statutory deductions and other employee-related remittances are properly accounted for.
Monitor financial risks and recommend appropriate measures to protect the organization's assets.
Review accounting procedures and recommend improvements that enhance efficiency and financial control.
Ensure proper documentation and authorization of all financial transactions.
Provide financial analysis and advice to management to support strategic and operational decisions.
Prepare financial reports and presentations for senior management and, where applicable, the Board.
Supervise, train, mentor and evaluate members of the accounting team.
Ensure that accounting records are properly filed, secured and readily available for audit or management review.
Keep abreast of changes in accounting standards, tax legislation and other relevant financial regulations.
Perform other duties as may be assigned by management.
Qualifications and Requirements
Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics or a related discipline from a recognized institution.
Professional accounting qualification such as ICAN, ACCA, ACA, ANAN or equivalentwill be an advantage.
Minimum of 4 - 7 years of progressive accounting and finance experience, with significant experience in a supervisory or management position.
Experience as a Chief Accountant, Financial Controller, Head of Accounts or in a similar senior accounting role will be an advantage.
Proven experience in budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis and cash-flow management.
Strong knowledge of internal controls, audit processes and financial risk management.
Experience with accounting software and ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, QuickBooks or similar platforms.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
Strong numerical, analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong leadership and people-management abilities.
High level of integrity, confidentiality and professional ethics.
Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to work under pressure and meet strict reporting deadlines.
Key Competencies:
The ideal candidate should demonstrate:
Financial reporting and accounting expertise
Budgeting and financial planning
Tax and regulatory compliance
Internal control and risk management
Audit management
Cash-flow management
Financial analysis
General ledger management
Bank and account reconciliation
ERP and accounting software proficiency
Advanced Excel skills
Leadership and team management
Strong business acumen
Excellent attention to detail
Integrity and accountability
Problem-solving and decision-making ability.
What We Offer
Competitive salary and benefits
Professional and supportive working environment
Opportunities for career growth and professional development
Training and capacity-building opportunities
Other benefits in accordance with company policy.