Pelum Kenya
Title: Finance Intern
Location: KU Boma Estate, Juja
Duration: 6 months
Employment Type: Full-time (100%)
Starting Date: February 2024
Reporting to: Head of Finance and Administration
Key Duties and Responsibilities
As a Finance Intern at PELUM Kenya, you will play a crucial role in supporting the Finance and Administration department. Your responsibilities will include:
i. Funds Management:
- Reviewing, verifying, and processing funds requests for payments and imprests.
- Assisting in maintaining the Petty cash book, ensuring all data entries are up-to-date, and reconciliations are accurately recorded.
ii. Financial Documentation:
- Assisting in the review and verification of imprest surrendered by staff members.
- Issuing receipts for all payments received and filing funds payment vouchers serially.
iii. Budgeting Support:
- Assisting program officers in budget preparations, ensuring alignment with approved budget in donor contracts.
iv. Programme Support:
- Providing support during programme activities, including payment reimbursements and logistics.
- Assisting in writing and dispensation of cheque payments and submissions to statutory organs.
v. Administrative Assistance:
- Providing general administrative support such as bulk photocopying, scanning, binding of financial documents, and other logistical tasks.
- Assisting in the procurement process, including dispensing of LPOs and writing procurement minutes.
vi. Additional Responsibilities:
- Undertaking any other duties assigned by the supervisor to support the Finance and Administration department.
Educational Requirements, Minimum Qualifications & Credentials:
To excel in this role, you should possess the following qualifications and skills:
- A minimum of a university degree in accounting and finance disciplines (e.g., Bachelor of Commerce) from a recognized institution.
- Qualification in CPA and ACCA will be an added advantage.
- Proficiency in Sage accounting software is essential, with experience in other computerized accounting packages considered advantageous.
- Strong analytical, communication, report writing, and presentation skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment, follow instructions, and work with minimal supervision.
- Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and a detailed CV with contact information for three referees to recruitment@pelumkenya.net, with the subject line “FINANCE INTERN” by Monday, 12th February 2024. Please refrain from attaching scanned copies of certificates or testimonials. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
PELUM Kenya is an equal opportunity employer committed to attracting and retaining diverse talent. We do not charge any application or recruitment fee.
Expert Tips To Be A Successful Applicant for Finance Intern Position
- Tailor Your Application: Customize your cover letter and CV to highlight your relevant skills and experiences in finance and accounting. Provide specific examples that demonstrate your capabilities in handling financial tasks effectively.
- Showcase Technical Skills: Emphasize your proficiency in Sage accounting software and any other relevant tools. If you have certifications such as CPA or ACCA, ensure they are clearly stated in your application.
- Highlight Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential in finance roles. Provide examples of how you’ve communicated complex financial information clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing.
- Demonstrate Teamwork: Highlight instances where you’ve collaborated with others to achieve common goals. Finance interns often work closely with colleagues, so showcasing your ability to work well in a team is crucial.
- Illustrate Problem-Solving Abilities: Describe situations where you’ve encountered challenges in financial tasks and how you successfully resolved them. Employers value candidates who can think critically and find solutions independently.
- Show Initiative: Provide examples of times when you’ve taken the initiative to go above and beyond your regular duties. Whether it’s volunteering for additional tasks or suggesting process improvements, demonstrate your proactive approach.
- Be Detail-Oriented: Attention to detail is vital in finance roles to ensure accuracy in financial records and reports. Highlight your meticulousness in handling financial data and conducting thorough reconciliations.
- Express Eagerness to Learn: Employers appreciate candidates who are eager to expand their knowledge and skills. Convey your enthusiasm for learning and growing in the finance field, emphasizing your willingness to take on new challenges.
- Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with PELUM Kenya’s mission, values, and projects. Tailor your application to align with the organization’s objectives, demonstrating your genuine interest in contributing to its success.
- Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you adhere to the application guidelines provided, including the submission deadline and required documents. Attention to detail in following instructions reflects your professionalism and commitment.
Sample Cover Letter for a Finance Intern Position
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Hiring Manager
PELUM Kenya
KU Boma Estate, Juja
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my interest in the Finance Intern position at PELUM Kenya, as advertised. With a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce majoring in accounting and finance, coupled with hands-on experience in using Sage accounting software, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your esteemed organization.
During my academic journey, I have developed a strong foundation in financial principles and practices, which I further enhanced through internships and part-time roles. I am particularly drawn to PELUM Kenya’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental conservation, and I am eager to align my passion for finance with your mission.
In my previous role at XYZ Company, I was involved in various financial activities, including funds management, budget preparations, and financial reporting. One notable achievement was streamlining the accounts payable process, resulting in a significant reduction in processing time and errors. I believe my attention to detail and analytical skills make me well-equipped to excel in a dynamic environment like PELUM Kenya.
I am impressed by PELUM Kenya’s dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the workplace, and I am committed to contributing to a culture of collaboration and innovation. I am confident that my background and enthusiasm for finance make me a strong candidate for this internship opportunity.
Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss how my skills and experiences align with the needs of your team. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to PELUM Kenya’s success.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the duration of the internship? The Finance Internship at PELUM Kenya has a duration of six months, providing interns with a comprehensive learning experience within the finance and administration department.
2. Is there a possibility of extension after the internship period? While extensions are subject to organizational needs and performance evaluations, PELUM Kenya values talent development and may offer opportunities for further engagement based on interns’ performance and availability of positions.
3. Are there opportunities for professional development during the internship? Interns at PELUM Kenya have access to various learning and development opportunities, including training sessions, workshops, and mentorship programs aimed at enhancing their skills and knowledge in finance and related areas.
4. Will interns receive compensation for their work? PELUM Kenya offers a stipend to interns to support their living expenses during the internship period. Details regarding stipend amount and payment frequency will be communicated to successful candidates upon selection.
5. What is the typical work schedule for interns? Interns are expected to work full-time, with a workload equivalent to 100% of regular working hours. The specific work schedule may vary based on departmental requirements and project timelines.
6. How many interns are typically selected for the finance internship program? The number of interns selected may vary based on organizational needs and the availability of resources. PELUM Kenya aims to provide a conducive learning environment with adequate support for all interns.
7. Are interns eligible for employee benefits such as health insurance? As temporary staff, interns may not be eligible for employee benefits such as health insurance. However, PELUM Kenya is committed to ensuring the well-being of all staff members and may provide additional support as deemed necessary.
8. What qualities are PELUM Kenya looking for in potential interns? PELUM Kenya seeks candidates who demonstrate strong academic credentials, technical proficiency in finance-related software, excellent communication skills, and a passion for sustainable development.
9. How can interns contribute to PELUM Kenya’s mission and objectives? Interns play a vital role in supporting ongoing projects, conducting research, and assisting in day-to-day operations, thereby contributing to the achievement of PELUM Kenya’s goals in promoting sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation.
10. What is the application process for the finance internship program? Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and detailed CV to recruitment@pelumkenya.net with the subject line “FINANCE INTERN” by the specified deadline. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessments and interviews.
Possible Finance Intern Interview Questions With Answers
- Can you describe your experience with financial management software, particularly Sage accounting software? Answer: During my academic studies and previous internships, I gained hands-on experience in using Sage accounting software for various financial tasks, including data entry, reconciliation, and generating financial reports. I am proficient in navigating the software’s features and functionalities, which I believe will enable me to contribute effectively to the finance team at PELUM Kenya.
- How do you prioritize tasks when faced with multiple deadlines? Answer: I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, assessing deadlines and the impact of each task on organizational goals. I utilize time management techniques such as creating to-do lists, setting deadlines for each task, and allocating sufficient time for completion. Effective communication with team members and supervisors also helps in managing priorities efficiently.
- Can you provide an example of a time when you identified and rectified an error in financial records? Answer: In my previous role, I noticed discrepancies in expense reports during the reconciliation process. After thorough investigation, I discovered a coding error that led to misallocation of expenses. I promptly rectified the error, ensuring accurate financial reporting. This experience taught me the importance of attention to detail and proactive error detection in maintaining financial integrity.
- How do you approach budget preparations and monitoring? Answer: I approach budget preparations by analyzing historical data, identifying trends, and aligning projections with organizational goals. During monitoring, I regularly review budget versus actual performance, identifying variances and implementing corrective measures as needed. I believe in proactive budget management to ensure financial sustainability and resource optimization.
- How do you handle confidential financial information? Answer: I adhere to strict confidentiality protocols when handling sensitive financial information. I limit access to authorized personnel, ensure secure storage of documents, and follow established procedures for data encryption and transmission. Upholding confidentiality is paramount in maintaining trust and integrity in financial operations.
- Can you describe a challenging situation you encountered in a team project and how you resolved it? Answer: During a team project, we faced disagreement on the allocation of budgetary resources. I facilitated open communication among team members, encouraging dialogue to understand different perspectives. Through collaborative discussion and compromise, we reached a consensus on resource allocation that satisfied everyone’s concerns. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of effective teamwork and conflict resolution skills.
- How do you stay updated on industry trends and developments in finance? Answer: I stay updated on industry trends by regularly reading financial publications, attending seminars, and participating in professional development programs. Networking with peers and industry professionals also provides valuable insights into emerging practices and innovations in finance, which I leverage to enhance my skills and knowledge.
- What motivates you to pursue a career in finance? Answer: I am motivated by the opportunity to make a positive impact through effective financial management. Finance plays a crucial role in driving organizational growth and sustainability, and I am passionate about contributing my skills to support strategic decision-making and achieve long-term objectives. The dynamic nature of finance challenges me to continuously learn and grow in my career.
- How do you handle pressure and tight deadlines in a fast-paced work environment? Answer: I thrive under pressure and tight deadlines by maintaining a calm and organized approach to tasks. I prioritize tasks based on urgency, break down complex projects into manageable steps, and utilize time management techniques to ensure timely completion. Clear communication with stakeholders and proactive problem-solving help me navigate challenging situations effectively.
- Why do you want to intern at PELUM Kenya specifically? Answer: I am drawn to PELUM Kenya’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental conservation, which aligns with my personal values and career aspirations. I am impressed by the organization’s impactful projects and inclusive work culture, and I am eager to contribute my skills and enthusiasm to support its mission. Interning at PELUM Kenya presents a unique opportunity for me to gain valuable experience and make a meaningful difference in addressing pressing environmental challenges.
We wish you the best in your application process and remind you that PELUM Kenya is committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all races and backgrounds in our continued effort to become a better development partner.
To apply for this job email your details to recruitment@pelumkenya.net
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