Senior Accountant – Benefits

Background

Position : Senior Accountant – Benefits

Reports to : Manager Payroll

Supervises : Payroll Accountant (2)

Supervisees No : 2 staff

Department : Finance

Duty Station : Head Office

Job Purpose

To manage and oversee employee benefits accounting and payroll processes ensuring accurate calculations, timely disbursement and compliance with statutory and organizational policies. The role is critical in maintaining financial accuracy and supporting employee satisfaction by ensuring benefits are managed effectively.

Impact: This role ensures the financial integrity of the organization by accurately accounting for employee benefits and payroll costs. The position supports employee well-being by ensuring timely payment of benefits, fostering trust and maintaining compliance with legal and organizational requirements.

Key Result Areas

• Oversee the accounting and reconciliation of employee benefits including pensions, insurance and other allowances
• Ensure accurate allocation and reporting of benefits-related expenses in compliance with financial standards
• Collaborate with HR to verify and update benefits data in the payroll system
• Supervise the Payroll Accountant to ensure timely and accurate payroll processing
• Review payroll reports for errors and discrepancies ensuring compliance with tax regulations and labor laws
• Coordinate with the Manager – Payroll on payroll budget forecasting and variance analysis
• Ensure compliance with statutory requirements related to employee benefits and payroll taxes
• Prepare detailed benefits accounting reports for management and regulatory bodies
• Facilitate internal and external audits related to benefits and payroll processes
• Provide guidance, mentorship, and performance feedback to the Payroll Accountant
• Identify training needs and implement professional development plans for the payroll team
• Evaluate current benefits accounting and payroll processes, identifying areas for optimization and cost savings
• Implement automation tools and technologies to streamline operations and improve accuracy.

Expected Output

• Benefits Accounting and Management
• Payroll Operations Oversight
• Compliance and Reporting
• Team Leadership and Development
• Process Improvement.

Academic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field
• Professional certification or affiliation with ICPAU, ACCA, or equivalent (required)
• Knowledge of payroll software and financial ERP systems.

Experience

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in payroll processing and management, benefits accounting, or financial accounting
• Experience in the energy or utility sector is highly desirable
• Proven track record of managing teams and enhancing financial processes.

Competencies

• Strong knowledge of payroll and benefits regulations, including tax laws and labor standards.
• Proficiency in financial reporting standards (e.g., IPSAS).
• Advanced skills in MS Excel and other accounting tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Leadership and team management capabilities.
• Attention to detail and high level of accuracy.
• Effective communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines.

Working Environment

The job may involve working for extended hours during peak periods and interacting with external stakeholders such as the Regulator or Revenue Authority to provide clarity on the company’s position and any statutory obligations.