Finance Manager

1. Role Purpose

The Finance Manager is responsible for the overall financial stewardship of the company's operations in Kenya. This is a critical leadership role ensuring the integrity of financial data, adherence to local and international financial regulations, and providing high-quality management and financial reports to drive strategic decision-making. The Manager will also be key in managing, mentoring, and developing the departmental team.

2. Key Responsibilities

A. Financial Reporting and Analysis

• Monthly, Quarterly, and Annual Reporting: Oversee the timely and accurate preparation of all financial statements, ensuring compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

• Management Reporting: Prepare detailed Management Reports including performance dashboards, departmental budget vs. actual variance analysis, cost center reviews, and Key Performance Indicator (KPI) tracking for the Finance Director and senior leadership.

• Budgeting & Forecasting: Lead the annual operating budget process, including periodic forecasting and cash flow projections, working collaboratively with departmental heads.

• General Ledger & Controls: Manage the general ledger, ensure timely reconciliation of bank accounts, fixed assets, and intercompany accounts, maintaining a robust system of internal controls.

  
  

B. Compliance, Tax, and Audit

• Statutory Compliance: Ensure strict and timely compliance with all relevant Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) tax obligations (e.g., VAT, Withholding Tax, PAYE, and Corporation Tax).

• Audit Management: Serve as the primary contact for both internal and external auditors, coordinating the provision of required documentation and ensuring swift implementation of audit recommendations.

• Policy Enforcement: Develop, implement, and monitor financial policies and procedures to safeguard company assets and ensure efficient financial operations.

  
  

C. Financial Systems Management

• SAGE Mastery: Take ownership of the financial accounting system, requiring mandatory hands-on experience with SAGE (e.g., SAGE 300 or similar versions) for ledger management, reporting, and maintenance.

• System Optimization: Identify opportunities for automation and process improvements within the financial systems to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and reporting capabilities.

  
  

D. Team Leadership and Development

• Management & Mentorship: Lead, supervise, and coach the team of five finance staff, setting clear objectives, managing workload distribution, and conducting performance reviews.

• Capacity Building: Identify and facilitate training opportunities to build the technical competence and professional skills of the finance team.

  
  

3. Qualifications and Requirements

A. Education and Professional Certification

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Commerce, or a related field.

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Kenya – CPA (K) is mandatory.

• Active membership and good standing with the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) is mandatory.

• A Master's degree (e.g., MBA) is an added advantage.

  
  

B. Experience

• Minimum of 6-8 years of progressive experience in an accounting or finance role.

• A minimum of 2 years of demonstrated experience in a supervisory or management capacity, leading a team of accountants.

• Proven expertise in producing statutory financial statements and comprehensive management reporting packages.

• Essential: Proven, in-depth, and practical working experience with SAGE accounting software.

• In-depth knowledge of IFRS and local Kenyan tax laws and statutory requirements.

  
  

C. Key Competencies and Skills

• Leadership: Strong ability to lead, motivate, and develop a diverse finance team.

• Financial Acumen: Exceptional skills in financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and risk management.

• Attention to Detail: Meticulous and highly accurate approach to all financial data and compliance tasks.

• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders.

• Technology: Advanced proficiency in MS Excel (including pivot tables, lookups, and financial modeling) and mastery of the company's ERP/accounting system (SAGE).