Senior Accountant at Fenot Associates, Ethiopia

Fenot Associates is a health-focused organization based in Ethiopia, dedicated to advancing global health—particularly in sub-Saharan Africa—through services in healthcare financing, policy, system improvement, research, evaluation, and training. With a team of experienced professionals, Fenot supports better health system performance and healthier communities through tailored consulting and implementation support.

Fenot Associates seeks a highly skilled and experienced Senior Accountant to join the Fenot team. The ideal candidate will oversee the day-to-day accounting operations, ensure compliance with Ethiopian tax laws and financial regulations, and prepare accurate financial reports to support strategic decision-making. The role requires strong accounting, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting skills to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting and analysis.

Key Responsibilities

A. Financial Management

• Manage general ledger functions and ensure accurate financial record-keeping.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in compliance with IFRS and Ethiopian financial reporting standards.
• Ensure timely preparation and submission of tax reports, including VAT, income tax, withholding tax, and pension contributions, with the Ministry of Revenue E-tax system.
• Coordinate internal and external audits and provide necessary documentation and explanations.
• Monitor and manage cash flow, bank reconciliations, and expense reporting.
• Ensure compliance with the Ethiopian Ministry of Revenue (MOR) requirements.
• Liaise with banks, auditors, and other external stakeholders as needed.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records for multiple concurrent projects.
• Set up project budgets in accordance with contract terms and donor requirements.
• Monitor project expenditures against approved budgets and report variances.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for individual projects.
• Track and manage all project-related payments, including salaries, subcontractor payments, and procurement.
• Ensure all project financial activities comply with Ethiopian tax regulations and donor agreements.

B. Budgeting and Planning

• Support the preparation of project proposals with accurate financial projections and cost estimates.
• Assist in developing annual budgets and forecasts for the organization and projects.
• Revise budgets as necessary to reflect scope changes or donor feedback, ensuring alignment with project objectives.

C. Audit and Compliance

• Prepare documentation for internal and external audits.
• Ensure that all financial documentation is complete, well-organized, and easily accessible.
• Provide support during audits and implement recommendations as required.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements, including VAT, withholding tax, and pension contributions.

D. Donor Financial Reporting

• Prepare donor-specific financial reports in the required formats and within the specified timelines.
• Collaborate with program and operations teams to ensure financial reports reflect actual program implementation.
• Respond to donor queries regarding financial matters and provide clarifications as needed.

E. Payroll and Staff Expense Management

• Manage payroll preparation and ensure timely disbursement of salaries.
• Ensure proper tax and pension deductions are made in compliance with Ethiopian labor laws.
• Verify and process staff travel advances, expense claims, and reimbursements.

F. Financial Systems and Controls

• Maintain and update accounting systems and tools used for project financial management.
• Strengthen internal controls to safeguard the organization’s assets and ensure proper use of funds.
• Recommend improvements to financial systems, policies, and procedures as needed.

G. Coordination and Communication

• Liaise with project Directors, Project Managers, consultants, and external partners to ensure alignment between financial and programmatic activities.
• Provide financial advice and training to project staff and partners as needed.
• Participate in internal planning and review meetings, providing financial insights.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (Master’s Degree or ACCA/CPA certification is a plus).
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in a senior accountant role.
• Strong knowledge of Ethiopian tax laws, financial regulations, and reporting standards.
• Experience working with international donors, including the Gates Foundation and USAID.
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., Peachtree, QuickBooks, ERP systems).
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.