Chief Accountant

About the role

A leading premium food manufacturing company based in Tigoni, Kenya, is recruiting a Chief Accountant to lead its finance function. This is a strategic leadership role for a technically proficient and commercially astute finance professional who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and partners closely with operations to drive business performance.

Key responsibilities

• Own the general ledger and ensure accurate month-end and year-end close within 10 days.
• Prepare IFRS-compliant financial statements, management reports and financial analysis for senior management.
• Supervise accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, banking and reconciliations across dairy, agrovet, retail and events.
• Drive product costing, stock valuation and margin analysis across raw materials, work-in-progress and finished goods.
• Manage cash flow, receivables and working capital, keeping receivables below 60 days.
• Lead budgeting, forecasting and variance analysis.
• Design, maintain and strengthen internal controls across finance, stock, procurement, payroll and banking.
• Coordinate internal and external audits and resolve audit issues within agreed timelines.
• Ensure statutory and tax compliance, including VAT, PAYE, WHT, corporate tax, NSSF, SHA, eTIMS and KRA requirements.
• Lead, mentor and develop a high-performing finance team.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Commerce or a related field.
• Proven experience in internal controls, audit preparation and statutory compliance.
• Strong cost accounting, product costing and stock valuation experience.

Required skills

• Strong IFRS knowledge.
• Hands-on experience with ERP systems and advanced Excel.