Chief Accountant (Manufacturing)

Summit Recruitment & Search, established in 2009, specializes in recruitment, executive search, outsourcing, and training for companies in Kenya, East Africa, South Africa, and the broader African market. They have a leading proven track record in their field.

The Chief Accountant role is a strategic leadership position designed for a finance professional with strong technical skills and commercial acumen. The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic manufacturing setting, partnering closely with operational teams to drive overall business performance and achieve strategic objectives.

1. Manage the general ledger and ensure accurate month-end and year-end financial closures within 10 days.
2. Prepare IFRS-compliant financial statements, management reports, and detailed financial analysis for senior management.
3. Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, banking operations, and reconciliations across various business units including dairy, agrovet, retail, and events.
4. Drive product costing, stock valuation, and margin analysis for raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods.
5. Manage cash flow, receivables, and working capital, aiming to keep receivables below 60 days.
6. Lead the budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis processes to support business growth and informed decision-making.
7. Develop, maintain, and strengthen internal controls across finance, stock management, procurement, payroll, and banking.
8. Coordinate internal and external audits, ensuring timely resolution of all audit findings.
9. Ensure full compliance with all statutory and tax requirements, including VAT, PAYE, WHT, corporate tax, NSSF, SHA, eTIMS, and KRA regulations.
10. Lead, mentor, and foster the development of a high-performing finance team.

1. Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Commerce, or a related discipline.
2. Possess strong experience in cost accounting, product costing, and stock valuation.
3. Demonstrate robust knowledge of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
4. Have proven experience in establishing internal controls, preparing for audits, and ensuring statutory compliance.
5. Exhibit hands-on experience with ERP systems and advanced proficiency in Excel.