Lead Accountant

Role Overview

This position is suited to an experienced accounting professional who can work with limited supervision. The role focuses on resolving issues that need some analysis, handling matters passed up from junior staff, and supporting day-to-day financial operations with accuracy and control.

Core Accountabilities

• Maintain accurate accounting records and prepare journal entries for accounts payable and payroll in accordance with applicable accounting rules and principles.
• Examine invoices and payment requests against approved purchase orders, identify mismatches, and raise any irregularities for further action.
• Monitor vendor ledgers and transactions to ensure payments are made according to agreed service levels and timelines.
• Check and reconcile payroll information provided by relevant stakeholders, then investigate and resolve any variances or inconsistencies.
• Prepare bank transfer instructions and other supporting payment documentation.
• Process banking transactions such as deposits, withdrawals, and transfers, while completing daily reconciliations.
• Manage timely and accurate payment processing for invoices, payroll, benefits, pensions, and employee rewards, ensuring amounts are authorized and released on the scheduled date.
• Reconcile petty cash and restore cash balances in line with the approved budget.

Working Practices

• Apply all relevant policies, procedures, and standard operating processes to ensure work is completed in a consistent and controlled way.
• Support junior colleagues and contribute to resolving escalated issues so tasks are completed efficiently.
• Escalate complex matters to the appropriate stakeholder to ensure cases are closed correctly.
• Carry out additional duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

A bachelor’s degree in accounting, or an equivalent qualification, is required. Candidates should also bring at least 4 years of relevant professional experience.

Competencies

• Financial planning and analysis
• Collaboration and communication
• Professional conduct
• Asset management
• Accounting standards and practices
• Results orientation
• Financial reporting and control
• Customer focus
• Risk assessment and management
• Change and innovation enablement
• Knowledge of information systems