Accountant at Discovering Talents Academy

Job Summary

• The Accountant at Discovering Talents Academy (DTA) is responsible for managing all financial transactions, maintaining accurate financial records, and ensuring the fiscal health of the organization.
• This role is critical in supporting DTA's operational efficiency and strategic growth by providing timely and reliable financial information.
• The Accountant will ensure strict adherence to financial policies, contribute to a culture of transparency, and support the school's mission and vision through sound financial management.

Key Responsibilities
Financial Record Keeping & Reporting:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records, including ledgers, journals, and financial statements.
• Process all financial transactions, including receipts, payments, invoices, and payroll, ensuring proper categorization and documentation.
• Prepare regular financial reports, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, for management review.
• Reconcile bank statements and other financial accounts regularly to ensure accuracy.
• Ensure all financial records are balanced and kept up to date, addressing any discrepancies promptly.

Fee Management & Collection:

• Manage the invoicing and collection of school fees from parents/guardians, ensuring timely payments.
• Track outstanding balances and implement follow-up procedures in accordance with school policy.
• Liaise with parents/guardians regarding fee inquiries and payment plans, while adhering to DTA's strict policy of direct bank payments (no physical cash collection).

Budgeting & Financial Planning Support:

• Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and financial forecasts.
• Monitor budget adherence, identify variances, and provide insights to management for financial planning and decision-making.
• Contribute to financial strategies that support the school's growth and sustainability.

Payroll Management:

• Process monthly payroll for all staff, ensuring accurate calculations of salaries, deductions (including compulsory savings scheme contributions), and benefits.
• Ensure timely disbursement of salaries and adherence to all relevant tax and labour regulations.
• Manage records related to the DTA Compulsory Savings Scheme, including staff contributions and school matching funds, ensuring compliance with the scheme's regulations.

Compliance & Audit:

• Ensure all financial operations comply with DTA's internal policies, accounting standards, and relevant regulatory requirements.
• Prepare necessary documentation and provide support for internal and external audits.
• Implement and maintain strong internal financial controls to safeguard school assets.

Communication & Collaboration:

• Provide financial insights and advice to the Head of School and other management staff as needed.
• Collaborate with the Admin Officer and other departments to ensure seamless financial processes and information flow.
• Respond to financial queries from staff and management in a professional and timely manner.

Compulsory Savings Scheme Management:

• Oversee the financial aspects of the DTA Compulsory Savings Scheme, ensuring accurate deductions, matching contributions, and record-keeping.
• Manage loan applications from the scheme, ensuring adherence to the 2% flat interest rate and the 200% borrowing limit (terms and conditions apply).
• Facilitate the distribution of interest allocations to staff at the end of the accounting year, pro-rated based on savings.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. Professional accounting qualification (e.g., ICAN, ACCA) is highly preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of [e.g., 3-5] years of proven experience as an Accountant, preferably within an educational institution or a similar service-oriented organization.
• Knowledge: Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting standards, payroll management, and relevant tax regulations. Familiarity with financial management of savings schemes is an advantage.
• Technological Proficiency: Advanced proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Sage), spreadsheet software (Microsoft Excel), and school management software (e.g., DTA software).
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with keen attention to detail and accuracy in financial data.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly.