Financial Accounting Manager

Financial Accounting Manager

Location: Kenya

REPORTS TO: Regional Manager (Regional Africa) & Regional Finance Director (AMEP)

PRIMARY POSITION PURPOSE

The Accounting Manager will lead the financial accounting function for Regional Africa, based in Kenya, overseeing multiple countries. The role focuses on ensuring accurate financial records, compliance with accounting standards and regulations, and delivering timely financial reporting. It also involves managing the accounting team and collaborating with finance leadership, auditors, and key business stakeholders.

Key responsibilities:

Financial Reporting & Compliance

• Manage month‑end close processes

• Manage the preparation of annual financial statements

• Maintain compliance with SJ Group accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls

• Ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards (e.g. IFRS / AASB / GAAP) and statutory requirements

• Coordinate external audits

• Ensure timely and accurate statutory, regulatory, and tax-related reporting

Accounting Operations

• Lead general ledger management, including reconciliations and journal entries

• Oversee balance sheet integrity and resolve complex accounting issues

• Review and approve accounting treatments for complex transactions

• Ensure accurate accounting for accruals, provisions, fixed assets, leases, and revenue recognition

Team Leadership and Stakeholder Management

• Manage, mentor, and develop the financial accounting team

• Allocate workloads, set performance objectives, and conduct performance reviews

• Promote a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and technical excellence

• Act as a key point of contact for auditors, tax advisors, and regulators

• Partner with SJ Finance team to support financial decision‑making

• Provide clear explanations of financial results and accounting matters to senior management

Process Improvement & Systems

• Drive continuous improvement in accounting processes, controls, and reporting timelines

• Support system upgrades, automation initiatives, and process standardisation

• Ensure data accuracy and integrity across financial systems

• Oversee the registration and deregistration processes of legal entities within the region, aligning with strategic business objectives and ensuring full regulatory compliance.

• Serve as Company Secretary for all regional entities or coordinate the appointment of external Co-Sec providers where applicable. Facilitate and document board meetings in line with governance standards.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related discipline

• CA, CPA, or equivalent professional accounting qualification (required)

• 5+ years’ experience in financial accounting or audit

• Prior experience managing or mentoring a team

• Experience in a large corporate, listed, or complex organisational environment preferred

SMEC is committed to developing its people by providing opportunities, resources, and a supportive environment for growth and success. Hiring is based on skills, qualifications, and experience, ensuring fairness and equal opportunity. The company values diversity, equity, and inclusion as a core part of its culture, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are welcomed, innovation is encouraged, and every individual is empowered to contribute and make a meaningful impact.

At Surbana Jurong, we put talent, hard work, teamwork and a fun workplace together to approach problems and solve them creatively and collaboratively. Join us in making a positive impact on the world!