Chief Accountant

We are seeking a highly skilled and business-oriented Chief Accountant to lead our financial operations and reporting within a dynamic FMCG environment. The role requires a strong command of costing, coupled with a strategic understanding of financial performance, compliance, and business impact. The ideal candidate will oversee the end-to-end accounting cycle, support management with data-driven insights, and enhance financial controls aligned with organizational goals. Requirements Key Responsibilities: Financial Leadership & Team Management - Guide, mentor, and oversee a team of accountants to ensure optimal performance, precision, and ongoing professional growth. - Establish clear roles, workflows, and key performance indicators (KPIs) for the finance team, while monitoring productivity and output quality. - Serve as the main point of contact for all accounting functions and financial reporting. Financial Reporting & Closing - Supervise monthly, quarterly, and annual closing procedures to ensure adherence to IFRS and internal guidelines. - Examine and sanction journal entries, account reconciliations, accruals, and provisions with analytical support. - Compile and deliver accurate financial statements, balance sheets, profit and loss statements, and management reports, providing in-depth commentary on performance relative to the budget. Costing & Landed Cost Management - Establish and oversee precise calculations of landed costs by assigning freight, customs, insurance, and other import costs to inventory. - Ensure the accurate valuation of cost of goods sold (COGS) and its appropriate representation in financial statements. - Promote enhancements in inventory costing practices and partake in strategic pricing decisions. Cash Flow & Treasury Oversight - Track short- and long-term cash flow forecasts; prioritize and schedule cash and cheque disbursements. - Oversee payment cycles, bank reconciliations, and supplier payments, collaborating with procurement and operations teams. Compliance, Audit & Tax - Coordinate with tax professionals for the timely and precise preparation of sales tax filings and other statutory obligations. - Facilitate year-end audits with internal and external auditors; prepare audit schedules, provide justifications, and lead closing discussions. - Enhance internal controls, ensure appropriate separation of duties, and recommend improvements to the financial control framework. Business Partnership & Analysis - Assist senior management with financial insights, variance analysis, cost-efficiency recommendations, and profitability assessments across brands, channels, and regions. - Engage in budgeting and forecasting processes; track actual results against forecasts and investigate discrepancies. - Work closely with operations, logistics, and procurement to integrate finance with wider supply chain and business objectives. Process Improvement & System Optimization - Regularly assess accounting processes and systems to pinpoint opportunities for automation, accuracy, and scalability. - Lead or assist in ERP implementation and upgrades as required to improve financial data flow and reporting capabilities. Confidentiality & Professional Development - Maintain high standards of integrity and confidentiality when managing financial and business information. - Stay informed of local regulations, IFRS standards, and industry best practices through ongoing training and professional networking. Qualifications: - Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (Master's preferred). - At least 8 years of progressive accounting experience, including a minimum of 2 years in a supervisory or leadership position. - Experience in the FMCG, Pharmaceutical, Manufacturing industry, with extensive knowledge of landed cost accounting and inventory management. - Strong background in financial reporting, internal controls, and audit preparation. - Advanced skills in Excel and familiarity with accounting/ERP systems (SAP). - Professional certifications such as CMA are highly valued. - Proven ability to articulate financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders. - Exceptional leadership, analytical, and decision-making abilities.