ACCOUNTS CLERK JOB VACANCY (1)

JOB DESCRIPTION: ACCOUNTS CLERK

Job Title: Accounts Clerk
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: Competitive
Posted Date: 4/2/2024
Closing Date: 18/2/24

Company Overview:
A.C.K. St. John’s Happy Valley Self Help Group is dedicated to empowering individuals through financial support and community development initiatives. As a leading Micro-Finance institution, we are committed to providing timely and accurate financial services to our members.

Job Summary:
As an Accounts Clerk, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the efficient management of financial information for our Self-Help Group. Your responsibilities will include consolidating budgets, posting daily entries, performing reconciliations, and assisting with year-end processes. This position requires a meticulous attention to detail and a thorough understanding of accounting principles.

Minimum Job Requirements:

• CPA2 qualification (candidates in the process of obtaining their CPA2 will be considered)
• Registration with ICPA (K) or equivalent body is mandatory
• Minimum of 2 years of accounting experience in a SACCO or similar financial institution
• Proficiency in computerized accounting systems and report writing
• Demonstrated leadership and administrative capabilities
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Minimum age requirement: 27 years

How to Apply:
To apply for this position, please email your CV, covering letter, copies of academic and professional certificates, and any relevant testimonials to ackstjohnhappyvalleyshg@gmail.com. The closing date for applications is 18/2/2024. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. Please ensure all correspondence is in English.

Expert Tips To Be A Successful Applicant for Accounts Clerk:

1. Tailor Your Application: Customize your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experience in accounting and financial management.
2. Showcase Leadership Skills: Provide examples of times when you’ve demonstrated leadership and initiative in previous roles, even if they’re not directly related to accounting.
3. Highlight Technical Proficiency: Emphasize your proficiency with computerized accounting systems and your ability to generate accurate financial reports.
4. Demonstrate Attention to Detail: Use specific examples to demonstrate your attention to detail and accuracy in financial tasks such as reconciliations and budgeting.
5. Illustrate Problem-Solving Abilities: Share examples of how you’ve identified and resolved financial discrepancies or challenges in previous roles.
6. Communicate Effectively: Showcase your written and verbal communication skills, as clear communication is essential in financial reporting and team collaboration.
7. Display Adaptability: Highlight your ability to adapt to changing priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced financial environment.
8. Exhibit Professionalism: Present yourself professionally in all communications and interactions with the hiring team, demonstrating your commitment to the role.
9. Provide References: Include references from previous employers or supervisors who can attest to your accounting skills and work ethic.
10. Follow Up: After submitting your application, follow up with a polite email to express your continued interest in the position and inquire about the timeline for interviews.

SAMPLE COVER LETTER for an Accounts Clerk

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my keen interest in the Accounts Clerk position at A.C.K. St. John’s Happy Valley Self Help Group, as advertised. Having recently completed my CPA2 qualification and possessing over three years of hands-on experience in financial management, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute my skills and expertise to your esteemed organization.

Throughout my career, I have developed a solid foundation in accounting principles and practices, honing my abilities in budget consolidation, financial reporting, and reconciliation processes. In my previous role at XYZ Financial Services, I played a key role in streamlining budgetary processes, resulting in a 15% increase in efficiency within the finance department. Additionally, I spearheaded a project to automate daily data entry tasks, reducing errors by 20% and significantly improving overall accuracy.

My experience extends beyond technical proficiency to include strong leadership and communication skills. I have successfully led cross-functional teams in implementing new accounting software, providing comprehensive training and support to ensure a smooth transition. I am adept at collaborating with colleagues at all levels of the organization, fostering a culture of teamwork and collaboration.

One of my greatest strengths is my attention to detail and commitment to accuracy. I meticulously review financial data to identify discrepancies and resolve issues proactively, ensuring the integrity of financial reports and statements. I am proficient in utilizing computerized accounting systems and have a proven track record of generating detailed financial reports to support decision-making processes.

I am particularly drawn to the Accounts Clerk role at A.C.K. St. John’s Happy Valley Self Help Group because of the organization’s commitment to community development and empowerment. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the success of your Micro-Finance initiatives and to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and families in the community.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm align with the needs of your organization. Please find attached my resume and academic/professional certificates for your review. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to the continued success of A.C.K. St. John’s Happy Valley Self Help Group.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are the main responsibilities of the Accounts Clerk role?
The Accounts Clerk role primarily involves managing financial information such as budget consolidation, daily data entry, reconciliations, and assisting with year-end processes.

2. What qualifications do I need for this position?
To be eligible for the Accounts Clerk position, candidates must possess at least a CPA2 qualification and be registered with ICPA (K) or an equivalent body. Additionally, a minimum of 2 years of accounting experience is required.

3. How do I apply for the Accounts Clerk position?
To apply for the Accounts Clerk position, please send your CV, covering letter, copies of academic and professional certificates, and any relevant testimonials to ackstjohnhappyvalleyshg@gmail.com. The closing date for applications is 18/2/2024. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

4. What language should I use for my application materials?
All correspondence, including CVs, cover letters, and emails, should be in English language.

5. When can I expect to hear back after applying?
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews after the closing date for applications on 18/2/2024. If you have not received a response by that time, unfortunately, your application has not been successful.

6. Is there an age requirement for this position?
Yes, candidates must be at least 27 years old to apply for the Accounts Clerk position.

7. What types of organizations are considered relevant experience for this role?
Candidates with experience working in SACCOs, Busy Self-Help Groups, or similar financial institutions with tightly managed financial reporting environments are preferred.

8. Are there any specific skills or software proficiencies required for this position?
Proficiency in computerized accounting systems, report writing, and a strong understanding of generally accepted accounting principles are essential for the role of an Accounts Clerk.

9. Will there be opportunities for professional development within the organization?
We are committed to supporting the professional growth of our employees and provide opportunities for ongoing training and development.

10. Does the company charge any application or recruitment fees?
No, we do not charge any application or recruitment fees. Our recruitment process is free of charge for all applicants.

Possible Accounts Clerk Interview Questions With Answers:

1. Can you explain your experience with budget consolidation and forecasting?
Certainly. In my previous role, I was responsible for consolidating departmental budgets and forecasting revenue projections. I utilized advanced Excel skills to create detailed financial models, which helped inform strategic decision-making.

2. How do you ensure accuracy when posting daily data entries?
To ensure accuracy, I have developed a meticulous process for double-checking entries before posting them to the ledger. This includes reconciling transactions with supporting documentation and conducting regular audits of financial records.

3. Describe a time when you had to reconcile discrepancies in financial statements. How did you handle it?
In one instance, I noticed a discrepancy between our bank statements and ledger records. I immediately initiated a thorough investigation, tracing the error back to a misposted transaction. I rectified the mistake, updated our records, and implemented additional checks to prevent similar errors in the future.

4. How do you prioritize tasks when faced with multiple deadlines?
When confronted with multiple deadlines, I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. I create a detailed schedule, allocating sufficient time to each task while ensuring that critical deadlines are met first. Effective time management and regular communication with team members help streamline the process.

5. Can you provide an example of a challenging financial problem you encountered and how you resolved it?
Certainly. In a previous role, we faced a significant cash flow shortfall due to delayed payments from clients. To address this issue, I collaborated with the finance team to implement stricter credit control measures, renegotiated payment terms with key clients, and explored alternative financing options. These actions helped stabilize cash flow and mitigate future risks.

6. How do you stay updated on changes in accounting regulations and best practices?
I prioritize continuous learning and staying informed about changes in accounting regulations and best practices. I regularly attend seminars, webinars, and professional development courses, and actively engage with industry publications and online forums. Additionally, I maintain membership in relevant professional associations, which provide access to up-to-date resources and networking opportunities.

7. Describe your experience working with computerized accounting systems.
I have extensive experience working with various computerized accounting systems, including [mention specific systems if applicable]. I am proficient in data entry, generating financial reports, and conducting analysis using these systems. Additionally, I have provided training and support to colleagues to enhance their proficiency with these tools.

8. How do you ensure confidentiality when handling sensitive financial information?
Confidentiality is paramount when handling sensitive financial information. I strictly adhere to company policies and procedures regarding data security and confidentiality. This includes limiting access to authorized personnel, encrypting electronic files, and using secure communication channels when sharing sensitive information.

9. Can you discuss a time when you had to communicate complex financial information to non-finance colleagues?
Certainly. In my previous role, I was tasked with presenting financial reports to department heads during monthly meetings. To ensure clarity and understanding, I prepared visual aids such as charts and graphs, simplified technical terminology, and encouraged questions and discussions. This approach helped foster transparency and collaboration across departments.

10. How do you handle stressful situations in the workplace?
When faced with stressful situations, I maintain a calm and composed demeanor, focusing on problem-solving and effective communication. I prioritize tasks, delegate responsibilities when necessary, and seek support from colleagues or supervisors. Additionally, I practice self-care techniques such as deep breathing or taking short breaks to manage stress and maintain productivity.

We wish you the best in your application process and remind you that our company is committed to diversity and equal opportunity employment. We do not charge any application or recruitment fees. Thank you for considering a career with A.C.K. St. John’s Happy Valley Self Help Group.