Financial Reporting Lead at Sahel Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition Limited

Key Roles and Responsibilities
Financial Reporting:

• Prepare, review, and oversee the accurate and timely preparation of financial statements, ensuring full compliance with appropriate accounting standards and company accounting policies.
• Ensure accurate financial tracking and reporting for grant-funded projects, meeting donor compliance requirements.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual management reports to provide insights on financial performance.
• Manage the financial close process, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.
• Coordinate external audits and liaise with auditors to ensure accurate and timely completion of financial reporting requirements.

Accounting Functions:

• Oversee all general accounting processes, including accounts payable (AP), accounts receivable (AR), payroll, and fixed assets management.
• Ensure accurate posting and reconciliation of all general ledger accounts, preparing journal entries, and adjustments as required.
• Review and approve reconciliations of bank accounts, intercompany transactions, and key balance sheet accounts.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Financial Planning:

• Lead the budgeting and forecasting process, providing financial insights, scenario planning, and variance analysis for strategic decision-making.
• Develop financial models to support long-term business planning and resource allocation.

Compliance and Internal Controls:

• Ensure all financial practices adhere to applicable regulations and internal control policies.
• Support the design, implementation, and monitoring of financial policies and procedures.
• Coordinate with regulatory bodies to ensure the company meets local and international regulatory requirements, especially around financial reporting.

Process Improvement and Optimization:

• Identify and implement accounting and financial reporting improvements to increase accuracy, efficiency, and timeliness.
• Drive continuous improvements in financial reporting systems, including the implementation of ERP solutions, automation, and digital finance tools to enhance accuracy and efficiency.

Other Responsibilities:

• Collaborate on ad hoc financial analysis, management reporting, and budget support.
• Lead and mentor the finance team, fostering a high-performance culture, providing on-the-job training, and ensuring strong succession planning within the department.

Minimum Required Skills & Experience

• A bachelor’s Degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field (Master’s degree is an advantage).
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in financial reporting, accounting, or financial management, with at least 3 years in a leadership role overseeing financial reporting, audit coordination, or compliance.
• Membership in a professional body (ICAN, ACCA, CFA).
• Strong financial analysis skills and a solid understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting standards, and proficiency in financial modelling.
• Experience in financial reporting for grant-funded projects and compliance with donor regulations is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in financial reporting and accounting software (e.g., SAGE, QuickBooks) and experience in ERP system implementation or enhancements.
• Knowledge of internal controls and risk management frameworks.