Job Details

Job Description

Simalaha Community Conservancy (SCC) is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented accountant to join our Conservancy Management Unit (CMU) team at Simalaha Community Conservancy. As the Community Conservancy Accountant, you will play a crucial role in managing our financial resources / and ensuring the responsible and transparent use of funds. Your primary responsibility will be to support SCC’s sound and sustainable financial management in line with the organization’s strategic goals and donor guidelines,maintain accurate financial records and prepare financial reports.

• You will fall under the direct responsibility of the Conservancy Manager within the Conservancy Management Unit. Your role will involve close collaboration with various members of the CMU, fostering a strong working relationship. Additionally, you will be required to maintain a close and effective working connection with the PPF Financial Manager, who is stationed in Sesheke. Therefore the purpose of the job will involve the following:Provide sound financial advice to the Board of Trustees, CMU and other Programme staff.
• Provide an effective financial management service to the organisation and its other entities if any.
• Ensure robust financial control environment to safeguard organisation’s assets.

Key Performance Areas

• Budgeting and Financial Planning: Collaborate with members of the CMU to develop project budgets, aligning them with the SCC goals and donor guidelines; Contribute to the development of financial strategies and plans to support the long-term sustainability and growth of the conservancy.
• Fund Management: Monitor and manage funds received through grants, donations, conservancy enterprises and other sources, ensuring proper allocation and use in line with the conservancy’s objectives and international best practices.
• Bookkeeping and Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records, ensuring compliance with accounting principles and best practices.
• Cash Flow Management: Monitor and maintain cash flow, ensuring sufficient funds are available for operational needs and planned projects.
• Bank Reconciliations: reconcile SCC’s bank accounts, comparing the recorded bank transactions with the bank statements to identify any discrepancies and ensure accurate financial reporting.
• Financial Reporting: Prepare regular financial reports, including monthly, quarterly, and annual statements, for presentation to management, board and stakeholders.
• Compliance and Regulations: Ensure adherence to all relevant financial regulations and compliance requirements, keeping abreast of changes and updates; ensure adherence to donors requirements.
• Risk Management: Identify potential financial risks and suggesting strategies to mitigate them.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to the preparation of the organisation’s strategic plan.
• Prepare the annual budget and forecasts.
• Maintain regular liaison with the CM and OM.
• Maintain records to meet legal and tax requirement and to measure both the inputs and the outcomes of the organisation’s operations.
• Prepare the statutory annual accounts.
• Plan and manage cash flow and investment activity
• Maintain contact with bankers, investment managers, pension advisers and auditors.
• Prepare monthly analysis of cost of goods sold and operational expenses against prior year and budget, providing explanations and solutions to help mitigate the risks.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Professional accounting certification (e.g., CPA) is preferred but not mandatory.
• Proven experience as an accountant, preferably in the non-profit or conservation sector.
• Proficient in accounting software and MS Office applications.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Knowledge of financial regulations and compliance standards.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

We offer a supportive and collaborative work environment dedicated to conservation efforts and community empowerment. If you are passionate about financial management and making a positive impact, we welcome you to apply and be part of our team at Simalaha Community Conservancy Association.

Remuneration: A competitive salary package will be negotiated, based on qualifications and experience

Please find the advert and detailed terms of reference on the Peace Parks Foundation website: www.peaceparks.org

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter detailing their interest in and suitability for the position, as well as a curriculum vitae in English and contact details of three references by 11 January 2024 to: [email protected]

Only SHORTLISTED CADNDIDATES will be contacted to attend an interview