1 Accountant position at City Eye Hospital, Nairobi

JOB DESCRIPTION: Accountant at City Eye Hospital, Nairobi

Overview: City Eye Hospital, a leading provider of quality affordable eyecare in Nairobi, is seeking a skilled and experienced Accountant to join our dynamic team. We are committed to delivering excellent eye care services while fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. As we continue to grow, we are dedicated to attracting top talent to help us achieve our mission. If you are a qualified CPA Finalist with a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce or Business Management (Finance/Accounting Option) and at least 3 years of relevant experience, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

Position: Accountant (Level: Mid-Level)

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Reporting and Analysis:
   • Prepare accurate and timely financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
   • Conduct thorough analysis of financial data to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for improvement.
2. Budgeting and Forecasting:
   • Assist in the development of annual budgets and forecasts in collaboration with departmental heads.
   • Monitor budget performance and provide regular updates to management, highlighting any deviations and recommending corrective actions.
3. Tax Compliance:
   • Ensure compliance with all tax regulations and reporting requirements, including timely filing of tax returns and payments.
   • Liaise with external auditors and tax authorities as necessary to address any inquiries or audits.
4. Financial Controls:
   • Implement and maintain effective internal controls to safeguard company assets and mitigate risks.
   • Conduct periodic reviews and audits to assess compliance with policies and procedures.
5. Accounts Payable and Receivable:
   • Oversee the processing of invoices, payments, and receivables, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
   • Manage relationships with vendors and customers to resolve any billing or payment issues promptly.

Qualifications and Experience:

• CPA Finalist qualification is mandatory.
• Bachelor’s degree in Commerce or Business Management (Finance/Accounting Option).
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a similar role.
• Membership with ICPAK will be an added advantage.
• Immediate availability for onboarding.

How to Apply: Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit their CVs and cover letters to careers@cityeyehospital.or.ke no later than 26th February 2024. Please ensure that all applications are written in English.

For further details about this role, please visit our careers page at www.cityeyehospital.or.ke.

Expert Tips To Be A Successful Applicant for Accountant:

1. Highlight Relevant Experience: Tailor your CV and cover letter to showcase your experience in financial reporting, budgeting, and tax compliance. Provide specific examples of your accomplishments in previous roles, demonstrating your ability to excel in similar responsibilities.
2. Emphasize Technical Skills: Clearly outline your proficiency in accounting software and financial analysis tools. Highlight any additional certifications or training courses that enhance your qualifications for the role.
3. Demonstrate Attention to Detail: Pay close attention to the application instructions and ensure that your documents are well-formatted and error-free. Attention to detail is crucial in the accounting field, and this extends to your application materials.
4. Showcase Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential for collaborating with colleagues and presenting financial information to stakeholders. Provide examples of situations where you effectively communicated complex financial concepts to non-financial audiences.
5. Illustrate Problem-Solving Abilities: Describe how you have identified and resolved accounting discrepancies or challenges in previous roles. Employers value candidates who can think critically and proactively address issues as they arise.
6. Express Eagerness to Learn: Demonstrate your willingness to expand your knowledge and skills in accounting and finance. Express interest in ongoing professional development opportunities and staying updated on industry trends.
7. Highlight Teamwork Experience: Collaborative teamwork is essential for success in any organization. Share examples of how you have worked effectively in cross-functional teams to achieve common goals and deliver results.
8. Research the Company: Take the time to research City Eye Hospital and familiarize yourself with our mission, values, and services. Tailor your application to align with our organizational culture and objectives.
9. Prepare for Interviews: Anticipate common interview questions related to accounting principles, problem-solving scenarios, and your ability to work under pressure. Practice your responses and be ready to provide concrete examples to support your answers.
10. Follow Up: After submitting your application, consider sending a brief follow-up email to express your continued interest in the position. This demonstrates your proactive approach and reinforces your commitment to joining the team.

Sample Cover Letter for an Accountant:

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Accountant position at City Eye Hospital, as advertised. With a CPA Finalist qualification and over three years of experience in financial management and analysis, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team.

In my previous role at XYZ Company, I was responsible for preparing monthly financial reports, analyzing variances, and providing recommendations to improve financial performance. I also played a key role in the budgeting process, collaborating with department heads to develop realistic budgets aligned with organizational objectives.

My attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and proficiency in accounting software make me well-equipped to handle the challenges of this role. I am eager to leverage my expertise to support City Eye Hospital in delivering quality eyecare services while maintaining financial integrity.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with the needs of your organization.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are the main responsibilities of the Accountant role at City Eye Hospital?

As an Accountant at City Eye Hospital, your main responsibilities include financial reporting and analysis, budgeting and forecasting, tax compliance, financial controls, and accounts payable/receivable management. You will play a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial data while supporting the organization’s financial objectives.

2. What qualifications are required for the Accountant position?

Applicants for the Accountant position should have a CPA Finalist qualification, a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce or Business Management (Finance/Accounting Option), and a minimum of three years of relevant experience. Membership with ICPAK is preferred, and immediate availability for onboarding is necessary.

3. How can I apply for the Accountant position at City Eye Hospital?

To apply for the Accountant position, please submit your CV and cover letter to careers@cityeyehospital.or.ke before the deadline on 26th February 2024. Ensure that all applications are written in English and include relevant details about your qualifications and experience.

4. What is the deadline for submitting applications?

The deadline for submitting applications for the Accountant position is 26th February 2024. Please ensure that your application is received by this date to be considered for the role.

5. Will ICPAK membership be a requirement for the Accountant position?

While membership with ICPAK is not mandatory, it is considered an added advantage for applicants to have this qualification. Candidates with ICPAK membership demonstrate a commitment to professional development and adherence to industry standards.

6. What opportunities for professional development are available for Accountants at City Eye Hospital?

City Eye Hospital is committed to supporting the professional growth and development of our employees. Accountants have access to training programs, workshops, and seminars to enhance their skills and stay updated on industry best practices.

7. How does City Eye Hospital promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace?

City Eye Hospital is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment where all employees feel valued and respected. We actively recruit talent from diverse backgrounds and provide equal opportunities for career advancement.

8. Are there opportunities for advancement within the accounting department at City Eye Hospital?

Yes, City Eye Hospital values internal talent development and provides opportunities for career advancement within the accounting department and across the organization. Employees are encouraged to pursue professional certifications and take on new challenges to support their career growth.

9. Does City Eye Hospital offer competitive salary and benefits packages for Accountants?

Yes, City Eye Hospital offers competitive salary and benefits packages for Accountants, including health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for performance-based incentives. Details of the compensation package will be discussed during the interview process.

10. Are there any application or recruitment fees associated with applying for the Accountant position at City Eye Hospital?

No, City Eye Hospital is an equal opportunity employer and does not charge any application or recruitment fees. All application processes are free of charge, and candidates should report any instances of solicitation for fees to our HR department immediately.

Possible Accountant Interview Questions With Answers:

1. Question: Can you describe your experience with financial reporting and analysis? Answer: In my previous role, I was responsible for preparing monthly financial statements, conducting variance analysis, and providing insights to management. I implemented new reporting processes that improved accuracy and efficiency, resulting in more informed decision-making.
2. Question: How do you ensure compliance with tax regulations in your work? Answer: I stay updated on tax laws and regulations and collaborate with tax experts to ensure accurate and timely compliance. I conduct regular audits to identify any potential issues and address them proactively to avoid penalties.
3. Question: How do you approach budgeting and forecasting? Answer: I work closely with department heads to develop realistic budgets based on historical data and future projections. I review performance against budget regularly, identifying areas for improvement and adjusting forecasts as needed to align with organizational goals.
4. Question: Can you provide an example of a time when you identified and resolved a financial discrepancy? Answer: In my previous role, I discovered a billing error that resulted in overcharging customers. I conducted a thorough investigation, rectified the error, and implemented new controls to prevent similar issues in the future. This experience reinforced the importance of attention to detail and proactive problem-solving.
5. Question: How do you prioritize tasks and manage deadlines in a fast-paced environment? Answer: I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, setting realistic deadlines and communicating expectations with stakeholders. I use project management tools to track progress and ensure that deadlines are met without sacrificing quality.
6. Question: How do you handle conflicts or disagreements with colleagues? Answer: I believe in open communication and constructive dialogue to resolve conflicts. I actively listen to others’ perspectives, seek common ground, and work towards mutually beneficial solutions. I also know when to escalate issues to management for further resolution if necessary.
7. Question: How do you stay updated on industry trends and best practices in accounting? Answer: I regularly attend seminars, webinars, and professional development courses to stay informed about changes in accounting standards and regulations. I also participate in online forums and subscribe to industry publications to keep abreast of emerging trends and best practices.
8. Question: Can you describe a challenging project you worked on and how you overcame obstacles to achieve success? Answer: One challenging project I encountered was implementing a new accounting software system. Despite initial resistance from some team members, I facilitated training sessions and provided ongoing support to ensure a smooth transition. By addressing concerns and emphasizing the benefits of the new system, we successfully completed the project on time and within budget.
9. Question: How do you approach continuous improvement in your role as an Accountant? Answer: I regularly seek feedback from colleagues and stakeholders to identify areas for improvement. I embrace a growth mindset, actively seeking out learning opportunities and exploring new technologies or methodologies to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in my role.
10. Question: Why do you want to work for City Eye Hospital? Answer: I am impressed by City Eye Hospital’s commitment to providing quality affordable eyecare services and its dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and experience to support the organization’s mission and make a positive impact on the community.

We wish you the best in your application process and remind you that City Eye Hospital is committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all races and backgrounds in our continued effort to become a better development partner. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not charge any application or recruitment fees.

THE KENYAN JOB FINDER