Finance Manager

We are seeking a dedicated and resilient Financial Manager to join our Accounts Team in Ghana, reporting directly to the Office Head - Ghana and the Head of Group Accounting.

The successful candidate must be a strong team player who thrives in a high-energy, fast-paced, and dynamic environment, with the ability to work with uncertainty and resilience. Taking full responsibility for the accounting function in Ghana and improvement projects within the finance function.

Working hours are determined by the practice, and the successful incumbent must be available and willing to handle urgent queries that may fall outside of standard hours from time to time. The position may also require occasional travel.

Key Responsibilities

Accounts Receivable and billing:

• Have overall responsibility for billing out services (including WIP), and management and collection of accounts receivables.
• Ensure regular and timely communication with fee earners regarding targets, billing performance, WIP, and other financial matters.

Tax and Compliance:

• Have overall responsibility for the preparation and filing of tax returns for all the various tax handles and in a timely manner.
• Ensure that the Ghana office is fully tax compliant and that no major audit point arises.
• Conduct tax risk assessments and reviews for VAT and income tax compliance.

Audit and Reporting:

• Have overall responsibility for the collection and maintenance of quality, reliable and accurate financial information, and the preparation of financial statement and reports for the Ghana Office.
• Manage the monthly closing process, including reconciliations and analysis of related accounts, to maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records, and assist in providing information, documentation, and explanations during the annual audit, and complete and file the Annual Audited Accounts with the GRA.
• Support and coordinate the audit process, implement audit findings, and proactively manage and resolve audit queries to ensure a smooth and successful audit.
• Stay updated on and implement IFRS regulations to ensure compliance and best practices in financial reporting.

Team Management:

• Clearly define accounting staff roles and responsibilities, ensure adequate training for team members, and maintain proper staffing levels within the department.
• Supervise the Team Accounts in Accra daily, ensuring adherence to the firm's financial disciplines and responding to inquiries from both the Accra and SA teams.
• Provide professional support and relevant information to team members regarding accounting, tax, and statutory requirements to effectively address client needs.

Payments and Cash Management:

• Authorize and release trust, business, and foreign payments while monitoring the petty cash and overall payment systems for accuracy and compliance.
• Oversee monthly payroll administration in collaboration with the Payroll Team in SA, and ensure timely filing of PAYE, SSNIT, PF, and Pension Fund returns for all relevant bodies.
• Supervise the preparation and submission of monthly statutory returns and payments, including VAT, NHIL, GET Fund, Covid Levies, and utilities payments (ECG, Water, Telephone) for the firm.

General Responsibilities:

• Identify financial control weaknesses and recommend improvements while providing general accounts support to the accounts team, practitioners, and on-ground support services.
• Manage relationships with statutory institutions, such as the GRA and SSNIT, and address banking matters and client payment issues as they arise.
• Perform ad-hoc tasks as needed.

Experience and qualifications specific to the role:

• Minimum B Com / BSc. Administration (Accounting Option) degree and a post graduate accounting/finance qualification
• A minimum of 5 – 7 years of experience in a similar role
• Relevant experience in managing and leading a team
• Previous experience in a law firm or professional services firm will be a distinct advantage
• Extensive experience / knowledge of accounting practices including significant experience in foreign currency accounting
• Relevant experience in tax compliance with sound knowledge of the tax laws and principles
• Financial operational experience
• Prior experience in dealing with revenue authorities in Ghana
• Proficiency in the relevant computer software packages e.g. Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel and an accounting package
• Client services experience is essential in a professional services environment

Personal attributes

• Ability to multitask and juggle several projects simultaneously
• Excellent administration, organisation and presentation skills
• Ability to stay abreast of the latest tax laws
• Excellent time management skills
• Ability to understand, communicate, and effectively interact with people across cultures
• Understands urgency and enjoys working under pressure
• Ability to work efficiently and effectively with minimum supervision in a high-pressure, ever-changing environment
• Willing and able to work overtime whenever necessary to ensure the successful completion of a project or task when the need arises
• Ability to be assertive and demonstrate tact and diplomacy when engaging with all stakeholders
• Ability to think innovatively and present new ideas in solving complex problems with a strong focus on proactivity and taking initiative
• Ability to adapt quickly and easily to change
• A strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy
• A proven team player who demonstrates professionalism and a friendly disposition when interacting with all stakeholders

Competencies

• Decisiveness
• Negotiation skills
• Working under pressure
• Innovative and creative thinking
• Reporting and presentation skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Analytical and problem-solving skills

The closing date for all applications is close of business on 27 September 2024.

Disclaimer: Should you not receive feedback within 2 weeks of the vacancy closing kindly regard your application as unsuccessful.