Senior Accounting Associate

Company Name: Charles Ardor & Company

Job Description:

The Senior Accounting Associate at Charles Ardor & Company plays a pivotal role in ensuring financial accuracy, efficiency, and strategic insight across client accounts. This position requires a blend of technical accounting expertise, leadership in team management, and proficiency in accounting software (Zoho Books preferred) to drive high-quality financial reporting and decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership & Ownership

Proactive Management: Take charge of assigned client accounts, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting without excessive oversight.

Team Supervision: Lead and review the work of junior accountants, ensuring financial reports meet professional standards before client submission.

Client Financial Oversight: Develop a strong understanding of each client’s financials, identifying key trends, risks, and insights to support strategic decision-making.

Stakeholder Communication: Engage with clients confidently, discussing financial performance, addressing concerns, and providing recommendations.

Process Improvement: Identify inefficiencies and recommend improvements in accounting workflows, leveraging automation where possible.

2. Accounting Software & Process Automation

Zoho Books Proficiency: Actively use Zoho Books (or similar ERP/accounting software) for full-cycle accounting, including invoicing, payables, receivables, and tax filings.

Bank Reconciliations & Journal Entries: Oversee accurate reconciliations, ensure proper classification of transactions, and resolve discrepancies efficiently.

Process Automation: Leverage system functionalities to reduce manual tasks, improve reporting efficiency, and ensure data consistency.

Data Accuracy & Internal Controls: Conduct thorough system checks, proactively identifying and correcting common accounting errors.

3. Technical & Financial Expertise

Advanced Financial Analysis: Review financial statements, assess profitability, identify risks, and provide actionable insights.

Regulatory Compliance: Ensure VAT, PAYE, WHT, and CIT filings are accurate and timely, maintaining compliance with tax regulations.

Internal & External Oversight: Act as the primary financial controller for both Charles Ardor’s in-house team and, where applicable, client-side accountants.

Cost Management: Implement best practices in expense tracking, cost allocation, and cash flow optimization.

Requirements

Must-Have Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
• Professional certification (ICAN, ACCA, CPA, or equivalent) preferred
• 3+ years of experience in accounting roles, preferably in a professional services or outsourced accounting firm
• Strong knowledge of Zoho Books or similar cloud-based accounting software
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate financial data into strategic insights

Proven experience managing junior accountants and reviewing financial reports

• Strong understanding of Nigerian tax regulations (VAT, PAYE, WHT, CIT)

Soft Skills & Work Style

• Proactive & Independent: Can take initiative without needing constant direction
• Detail-Oriented: Ensures accuracy in financial records and reconciliations
• Excellent Communicator: Can explain financial concepts clearly to clients and non-accountants
• Tech-Savvy: Comfortable with automation and digital accounting solutions

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with businesses in sectors such as retail, e-commerce, food & beverage, or professional services

• Prior exposure to management accounting and financial planning

Benefits

Hybrid work environment tailored to your needs.

Leadership opportunities mentoring junior accountants and acting as a Financial Controller.

Professional growth with exposure to complex client portfolios.

Regular training sessions to stay updated on accounting standards and tools.

Performance-based incentives and transparent career progression.

Paid leave and recognition for exceptional performance.

Job Type: Full time  Hybrid

Job Posted: 27th March 2025