Senior Accountant

Optimum is a professional Audit and Consulting firm formed in 2023 through the Strategic merger of two established partnerships Eshetu & Mesfin Audit Service Partnership (2013) and Debebe & Mekonnen Audit Service Partnership (2018)—along with two reputable sole proprietorships, Kalid Mohamed Certified Audit Firm (2016) and Feleke Tessema Certified Audit Firm (2018).

Led by a team of dynamic and experienced professionals, we aim to become one of Ethiopia’s leading firms by leveraging our combined expertise and proven track record. We are committed to upholding the highest professional standards, fostering a collaborative work culture, and supporting the career growth of our employees.

As we expand, we are seeking a highly skilled Senior Accountant to join our growing team.

Department: Tax and Outsourcing

Reports to: Department Head

Location: Addis Ababa

Positions Available: 5

Position Overview

We are seeking highly skilled and experienced Senior Accountants to manage end-to-end accounting operations for a diverse portfolio of clients. The role involves ensuring accuracy, integrity, and compliance of financial data with IFRS, GAAP, and applicable tax regulations. The ideal candidate will demonstrate advanced analytical capabilities, proven expertise in financial management, and a strong commitment to driving process efficiencies and value for clients.

As a Senior Accountant, you will serve as focal Person to clients by delivering reliable financial information, supporting decision-making, and ensuring adherence to local and international financial standards. You will oversee comprehensive accounting functions including general ledger management, taxation, internal controls, inventory and cost accounting, and import cost build-up. Additionally, you will lead junior team members and act as the primary liaison for client engagements with auditors, tax authorities, and regulatory bodies.

Key Responsibilities

1. Financial Management & Reporting

• Manage and reconcile client financial transactions in accordance with accounting standards and firm policies.
• Prepare, review, and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow analyses tailored to client needs.
• Perform detailed variance analyses and provide actionable insights to enhance client financial performance and decision-making.
• Assist clients with budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning.

2. Payable Accounts & Receivable Oversight

• Supervise the processing of client accounts payable and receivable to ensure timely and accurate settlements.
• Review client invoices, contracts, and related documentation for accuracy and compliance.
• Reconcile vendor, customer, and intercompany accounts promptly, addressing discrepancies efficiently.

3. Taxation & Regulatory Compliance

• Coordinate and manage timely preparation and submission of statutory tax filings for clients, including VAT, withholding tax, annual profit tax, and social security contributions.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of tax laws and regulations, advising clients on implications and ensuring compliance.
• Liaise directly with clients, auditors, tax authorities, and regulatory bodies during audits, inspections, and compliance assessments.

4. Bank & Cash Flow Management

• Oversee client bank reconciliations and cash flow monitoring to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Manage payroll processing for clients, verifying salary payments, deductions, and statutory contributions.
• Administer foreign currency transactions, advising clients on currency risk and compliance with exchange control regulations.

5. Inventory Management & Cost Accounting

• Maintain accurate and compliant inventory records for clients, ensuring proper valuation and reconciliation with physical counts.
• Develop and monitor cost accounting frameworks to analyze production costs, conduct variance analysis, and support client pricing and profitability strategies.
• Implement effective stock control measures to reduce losses and optimize inventory turnover on behalf of clients.

6. Import Cost Build-Up

• Calculate total landed costs for imported goods, including purchase price, freight, customs duties, insurance, clearing charges, and other associated costs for clients.
• Ensure accurate allocation of import-related expenses to client inventory in line with accounting standards and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor and advise clients on the impact of changing tariffs, foreign exchange rates, and other cost variables on profitability.

7. Internal Controls & Process Improvement

• Review and maintain robust internal control systems for clients to safeguard assets and improve accuracy.
• Identify opportunities to streamline and enhance accounting workflows and reporting processes across client engagements.
• Provide comprehensive support and documentation during internal and external audits, including tax audits.

8. Team Leadership & Client Engagement

• Lead, mentor, and develop junior accounting staff to foster professional growth and high-quality service delivery.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients on financial matters, delivering clear, concise, and timely communications.
• Build trusted advisor relationships, offering strategic financial guidance to enhance client business operations and compliance.

Qualifications & Skills

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related discipline.
• Demonstrated interest or active pursuit of ACCA certification is considered a strong advantage.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years progressive experience in accounting, finance, or audit roles, preferably within accounting firms serving diverse client sectors, including private and development organizations.
• Proven expertise in inventory management, cost accounting, tax accounting, and import cost build-up within client-service environments.

Technical Expertise

• Proficiency in accounting software such as Peachtree, QuickBooks, or equivalent, alongside advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Comprehensive knowledge of Ethiopian tax legislation, IFRS, GAAP, and related regulatory frameworks.
• Strong ability to prioritize and manage multiple client engagements under tight deadlines.

Core Competencies

• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and client relationship management abilities.
• Demonstrated leadership and team development capabilities.

Benefits Package/Salary:

Optimum provides a competitive remuneration package aligned with experience, including base salary, performance-based incentives and bonus, and a comprehensive benefits scheme. We are committed to supporting professional growth through continuous training, further education opportunities (including ACCA Certification), and a collaborative, supportive work environment that promotes work-life balance. Additionally, Optimum offers strong career development prospects, with exposure to diverse industries and clients to broaden and deepen your accounting and finance expertise.

Skills Required:

• Accounting / Finance