Accountant at HR-on-Wheels

Job Summary

• In this role as the Accountant, you will oversee the daily accounting operations, manage financial reporting, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards specific to the aviation industry. 
• This role will support the efficient operation of the organisation while contributing to cost control and accounting process optimization. 
• With strong accounting skills, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams to maintain accurate financial records, assist in budgeting, and ensure that the school’s financial operations run smoothly and within aviation-specific guidelines. 
• Your focus will be on financial accuracy, compliance, and providing support for operational decision-making.

Key Responsibilities
Financial Records Management:

• Maintain comprehensive financial records and manage the general ledger for all operations.
• Record, analyze, and reconcile financial transactions related to tuition fees, flight training expenses, and licensing costs.
• Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports to management and stakeholders.

Budgeting and Forecasting:

• Assist in the development of detailed budgets for the business operations.
• Monitor budget performance and update forecasts based on operational changes for the different programs.
• Collaborate with the program directors to optimize resource allocation while ensuring high-quality training services.

Aviation Specific Financial Management:

• Monitor costs related to the aircraft operations i.e. fuel, maintenance, and training equipment etc..
• Work with operational teams to track aircraft utilization and manage associated expenses.
• Assist in the financial evaluation of flight training programs and operational cost-effectiveness.

Regulatory Compliance & Internal Controls:

• Ensure adherence to aviation-specific financial regulations and local standards.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of changes in aviation financial practices and regulatory requirements.
• Implement internal controls and assist with audits to ensure compliance
• Ensure adherence to regulatory standards, internal policies, and procedures.
• Coordinate with external and internal auditors during audits.
• Prepare necessary documentation and support audit processes.

Tax Preparation & Statutory Requirements Filing:

• Preparation and submission of tax documents.
• Stay current with tax regulations and ensure timely and up to date filing.
• Ensure 100% compliance with all statutory requirements.

Systems & Process Improvement:

• Evaluate and optimize accounting systems and processes for enhanced efficiency and accuracy.
• Oversee the implementation or maintenance of new or existing new accounting software or tools, ensuring alignment with aviation-specific requirements.

Team Leadership & Cross Functional Collaborations:

• Lead and mentor the accounting team, fostering professional development and performance excellence.
• Collaborate closely with the operations, training, and management teams to support strategic decision-making.
• Implement accounting best practices and continuous improvement initiatives tailored to the aviation sector.

Qualifications, Skills and Experience

• Bachelor’s / HND degree in Accounting (ICAN/ACCA certification preferred).
• Advanced degree (MBA, Masters in Finance) is a plus.
• Minimum of 5-10 years of progressive accounting and financial management experience.
• Prior experience in the aviation industry, particularly in a training school or similar operational environment.
• Proven track record in managing complex financial operations, budgeting, and cost control in an aviation training school.
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Zoho Books, Sage) and very proficient in MS Office with advanced MS Excel skills.
• Experience working with ERP systems.
• Strong understanding of aviation-specific financial and regulatory requirements.
• Familiarity with cost control methods for aircraft operations, including fuel management, maintenance budgeting, and asset depreciation.
• Deep understanding of aviation regulatory compliance, safety standards, and industry best practices.
• Experience managing accounting in a dynamic and high-risk operational environment.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Detail-oriented with a proactive approach to process improvement.