Account Officer
Role Purpose
The Account Officer manages both payables and receivables processes to ensure financial integrity, compliance, and optimized cash flow. This role oversees vendor and customer accounts, maintains accurate financial records, and provides actionable reports to support decision-making
Key Duties & Responsibilities
Payables Management
- Monitor and analyze trade payables days to ensure timely payments and optimal cash flow.
- Reconcile vendor accounts, resolve discrepancies, and maintain strong supplier relationships.
- Process invoices, expense reports, and payment requests in accordance with company policies.
Receivables Management
- Monitor and report Receivables Days (DSO) to optimize cash flow and collection cycles.
- Post invoices and payments accurately in the accounting system, in line with company policies.
- Assign customer credit ratings and establish credit limits based on financial analysis.
Financial Reporting
- Prepare and submit accurate payables and receivables reports weekly, including cash flow forecasts.
- Conduct monthly reviews of prepaid expenses and projects, ensuring proper ledger entries.
- Generate detailed aging analyses for both payables and receivables to support financial decision-making.
Reconciliations
- Perform monthly reconciliations of customer accounts, vendor accounts, staff advances, and intercompany accounts.
- Reconcile bank statements monthly and resolve discrepancies to maintain accuracy.
- Execute FX translations for international transactions to ensure accurate financial statements.
Compliance
- Ensure timely filing of statutory returns (VAT, WHT) in line with regulatory requirements.
- Maintain compliance with company financial policies and procedures.
Process Optimization
- Conduct cost reviews and variance analyses to identify opportunities for savings.
- Recommend improvements to accounts payable and receivable processes to enhance efficiency.
Education & Work Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
- 3–5 years of experience in accounts payable, accounts receivable, or similar financial roles.
- Professional certifications (ICAN, ACCA) are preferred but not mandatory.
- Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAGE) and advanced Excel skills.
- Familiarity with financial regulations, VAT, and WHT processes.
Competency & Skill Requirements
- Strong expertise in financial reporting, reconciliations, and accounts payable/receivable processes.
- Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills with strong attention to detail.
- Ability to manage deadlines, multitask, and adapt in a dynamic environment.
- High level of commitment to confidentiality and professional standards in financial operations.
- Collaborative team player with strong verbal and written communication skills.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- 100% accuracy in payables and receivables reports and reconciliations.
- Timely submission of statutory filings and weekly financial reports.
- Maintenance of Days Payable Outstanding (DPO) and Days Sales Outstanding (DSO) within target ranges.
- Resolution of vendor and customer discrepancies within seven (7) business days.