Accountant

About the role

Kapiti Plains Estate Ltd, a public limited company wholly owned by the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), is recruiting an Accountant to support its financial and accounting management. The post holder processes daily financial transactions, manages payroll, fixed assets and inventory, and ensures financial practices comply with the estate's approved policies. The position is full time, on a contract basis, open only to Kenyan nationals, based in Kapiti Plains Estate, Machakos.

Key responsibilities

• Record daily transactions in the OCS system and close the accounting period by the first of each month; reconcile the current account monthly and monitor the operational budget and cash flow.
• Record sales and expenditure, manage petty cash, and prepare and process payroll and staff benefits in line with tax and employment law.
• Maintain the asset register, prepare monthly reconciliations of livestock and consumables, and keep detailed livestock records.
• Process supplier and customer invoices, payments and receipts, reconcile AP and AR accounts, and follow up on outstanding balances.
• Set up procurement and stock-control procedures, coordinate with headquarters procurement, and strengthen internal controls.
• Prepare and invoice CRO studies, track receipts, and ensure balances are settled within three months of the due date.
• Support end-of-year closing and audits, keep documents securely filed, and carry out other duties assigned by the Senior Manager/Head.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration or a related field.
• At least three years of relevant, progressive experience, preferably in a research, NGO or agribusiness setting.
• Demonstrated experience in payroll administration, fixed asset management and inventory reconciliation.
• CPA Section 2 or above, or full professional certification such as CPA (K) or ACCA, is an added advantage.

Required skills

• Proficiency in accounting software, preferably OCS, and ERP systems.
• Knowledge of IFRS and Kenyan tax regulations.
• Microsoft Office, with advanced Excel and financial reporting tools.
• Budget preparation, cash flow forecasting and variance analysis.
• Familiarity with donor-funded project accounting and audit requirements.

To apply, submit a cover letter and CV with three professional referees through the recruitment portal by 20 November 2026, marking the subject line with the position title and reference number Kapiti/01/2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and the company charges no fees at any stage.