Accounts Manager – Food Industry (Macadamia)

Accounts Manager – Food Industry (Macadamia)

Job Description

Summary: The position is responsible for overseeing the bookkeeping, accounting, and finance functions in a young but growing rural based company in Western Kenya engaged in macadamia seedlings and nuts-in-shell production and purchasing, processing into kernels and value added products, and marketing and sales of macadamia products. The incumbent will implement the written procedures of a newly approved Finance Manual.

She/he will ensure that the spirit of these procedures is maintained and clarified over time through improvements of the procedures themselves to ensure an internal quality system that has an accurate record of, and that protects the assets of the company. She/he will have a strong understanding of the role of the bookkeeping and accounting functions in providing a true status of the whole company at any given time through accurate recording of assets, real time capturing of all transactions involving company assets, and providing timely reporting to the accountable supervisors and managers in operational departments, and senior management including the board. As senior member of the management team, the incumbent will proactively provide input on the accounting and financial policies of the company to the CEO for sound resource allocation and management.

The company is looking for an individual who will make a difference as a member of the senior management team. She/he will build and train a team of assistants that will work in harmonious collaboration with operational departments to ensure smooth and timely delivery of finished products that exceed customer expectations. The position suits a young and practical professional who enjoys making a difference working in a rural community setting.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Implement the approved Finance Manual ensuring the integrity of all procedures and compliance by all affected departments through appropriate communication, providing essential operational documentation, training, and follow up to establish a strong culture of financial accountability. Related specific duties include the following:

1. Manage all financial transactions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll processing, and general ledger entries.

2. Oversee the preparation and analysis of financial reports, including income statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements, and variance analysis.

3. Review, improve and maintain financial policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and best practices.

4. Coordinate the annual budgeting process and provide ongoing budget monitoring and forecasting.

5. Work closely with department heads to track and analyze expenses, identify cost-saving opportunities, and optimize resource allocation.

6. Manage banking relationships, including cash management, credit facilities, and investment activities.

7. Ensure timely and accurate filing of tax returns and compliance with tax laws and regulations.

8. Provide financial analysis and support for strategic decision-making, investment evaluations, and business development initiatives.

9. Collaborate with external auditors and regulatory agencies as needed.

10. Supervise and mentor accounting staff, providing guidance, training, and performance feedback.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field; Additional CPA certification preferred.

• Proven experience (5+ years) in financial management roles, preferably in the agriculture or food industry.

• Strong understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting standards, and taxation requirements.

• Proficiency in accounting software and financial management systems; experience with ERP systems is a plus.

• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret financial data, identify trends, and make strategic recommendations.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and levels of the organization.

• Demonstrated leadership abilities, including the ability to manage and motivate a team.

• Attention to detail and accuracy, with a commitment to maintaining high standards of integrity and compliance.

• Sound and stable character with good judgment.

• Comfortable in living and working in a rural location.