Accountant

SICPA (SL) Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of SICPA SA, headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland.  As global leader in security inks for banknotes, value documents and brand name goods, SICPA has developed a strong international position as creator of innovative security solutions.

Operating in partnership with the National Revenue Authority (NRA) of Sierra Leone, SICPA (SL) Limited delivers a state-of-the-art Digital Tax Stamping (Direct Marking) program aimed at enhancing domestic revenue mobilization, curbing illicit trade, and ensuring product authenticity across excisable goods.

We are seeking a professional  for the role of an Accountant. 

The Accountant will be an integral member of the Finance & Risk Department, providing accurate financial accounting support, ensuring compliance with Sierra Leone's fiscal and statutory regulations, and contributing to the efficiency and integrity of SICPA (SL) Limited's financial operations.

Reporting to: Finance Manager

Key Responsibilities:

1.  Financial Accounting & Bookkeeping

•            Maintain accurate filing system

•            Post and reconcile all general ledger entries, ensuring completeness and accuracy of journals across income, expenditure, assets, and liabilities.

•            Process accounts payable and accounts receivable transactions in a timely and accurate manner.

•            Perform monthly bank reconciliations and resolve all discrepancies in a timely fashion.

•            Maintain fixed asset registers, calculate depreciation schedules, and reconcile to the general ledger.

•            Manage the petty cash fund, conduct periodic counts, and prepare petty cash reconciliation reports.

2.  Financial Reporting & Analysis

•            Prepare accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual management accounts for review by the Finance Manager and senior leadership.

•            Prepare and submit periodic general ledger reports

•            Generate ad-hoc financial reports as required by the Finance Manager or company management.

•            Support the preparation of annual budgets and rolling financial forecasts in liaison with the Finance Manager.

3.  Taxation & Statutory Compliance

•            Compute, prepare, and file all statutory tax returns including Pay As You Earn (PAYE), Goods and Services Tax (GST), corporate income tax, and withholding tax in accordance with the National Revenue Authority's requirements and Sierra Leonean tax laws.

•            Ensure timely payment of all tax liabilities to avoid penalties and interest charges.

•            Consult with external auditors and the National Revenue Authority (NRA) during tax audits and assessments, providing required documentation and responses.

•            Monitor changes in Sierra Leonean tax legislation, regulatory frameworks, and Finance Act provisions, and advise the Finance Manager of relevant implications.

•            Maintain accurate records of all tax filings, correspondence with regulatory authorities, and related documentation.

4.  Payroll Administration

• Assist the Finance Manager in processing the monthly payroll, ensuring accuracy of salaries, allowances, deductions, and NASSIT contributions for all staff.
• Prepare payroll journals and post to the general ledger monthly.
• Reconcile payroll costs to the income statement and ensure all statutory deductions are remitted on time.
• Maintain confidential and accurate records of employee compensation and payroll history.

5.  Cash Management & Treasury Support

•            Process approved payments through banking platforms and ensure appropriate authorization controls are observed.

•            Consult with the company's banking institutions on routine transactional and administrative matters.

•            Ensure all cash and bank transactions are fully documented, authorized, and recorded in the accounting system.

6.  Procurement Support & Vendor Management

•            Review supplier invoices against purchase orders and delivery notes prior to processing payment.

•            Maintain an accurate vendor master file and ensure all vendor records are current and complete.

•            Assist in the preparation and monitoring of procurement budgets in line with company policies.

•            Support the Finance Manager in reviewing and enforcing internal procurement controls and approval thresholds.

7.  Internal Controls & Audit Support

•            Maintain and observe robust internal financial controls to safeguard company assets and ensure the integrity of financial data.

•            Support internal and external audit processes by preparing schedules, reconciliations, and supporting documentation as required.

•            Identify and report control weaknesses or process gaps to the Finance Manager with recommended remedial actions.

•            Ensure all financial transactions are properly authorized, documented, and filed in accordance with the company's document management policies.

8.  Intercompany Transactions & HQ Reporting

•            Process intercompany invoices and monthly reconciliation of intercompany balances with SICPA SA and other group entities

9.  General Finance Administration

•            Maintain an organized and secure filing system for all accounting records, contracts, and financial correspondence in both physical and digital formats.

•            Perform any other duties assigned by the Finance Manager or General Manager that fall within the scope of the role.

•            Participate in finance team meetings, providing updates on assigned tasks and flagging emerging issues proactively.

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

Education: Degree in Accounting/ Finance or ACCA (Part 2 completed)

Experience: Experienced Accountant with minimum 5 years’ experience in accounting and finance within a reputable organization.

•           Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., SAP, QuickBooks, Sage, or equivalent ERP systems)

•           Advanced Microsoft Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, financial modelling)

•           Strong knowledge of IFRS and local GAAP

•           Tax computation and statutory compliance (NRA, PAYE, GST, NASSIT)

•           Financial analysis, budgeting, and variance reporting

•           Bank and general ledger reconciliation.

•           Fixed asset and depreciation management

•           Payroll processing and administration

•           Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)   

•           High degree of integrity, honesty, and professional ethics

•           Meticulous diligence and accuracy

•           Strong organizational and time management skills with ability to meet deadlines.

•           Analytical and problem-solving mindset

•           Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English

•           Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

•           Discretion in handling sensitive and confidential financial information

•           Initiative-taking approach and willingness to take initiative.

•           Adaptability within a dynamic, international corporate environment