It sounds like Central Poultry is looking for a Senior Accountant in Malawi with a focus on inventory management and financial planning & forecasting. This role would require expertise in accounting principles along with the ability to manage inventory systems and make accurate financial projections for the company.

Here’s how you can structure your approach to this role, whether you’re a hiring manager looking for a candidate or you’re preparing for such a position:

Key Responsibilities for the Senior Accountant (Inventory & Financial Planning)

1. Inventory Management

• Oversee Inventory Systems: Monitor inventory levels, and track inventory movement (purchases, sales, and stock adjustments).
• Inventory Valuation: Implement appropriate inventory valuation methods (FIFO, LIFO, or Weighted Average) to ensure accurate costing.
• Stock Reconciliation: Conduct regular stock audits and reconcile inventory discrepancies.
• Optimize Inventory: Develop strategies to reduce excess stock, minimize stock outs, and ensure efficient use of working capital.
• Cost of Goods Sold (COGS): Regularly calculate and track COGS to ensure accurate gross profit margins.

1. Financial Planning and Forecasting

• Financial Forecasting: Develop and maintain financial forecasts, including sales, cash flow, and expense projections. Use historical data to create realistic and achievable projections.
• Budgeting: Lead the annual budgeting process, including forecasting revenues, expenses, and capital expenditures.
• Scenario Analysis: Prepare multiple financial scenarios (best case, worst case, and base case) to assist in decision-making.
• Cash Flow Management: Ensure adequate cash flow for day-to-day operations while monitoring liquidity levels.
• Reporting: Provide regular financial reports to senior management on performance against forecasts, identifying any variances and recommending corrective actions.

1. Coordination and Collaboration

• Cross-departmental Collaboration: Work with procurement, sales, and production teams to gather accurate data for forecasting and inventory management.
• Compliance and Internal Controls: Ensure that all financial and inventory activities comply with local regulations and accounting standards. Implement effective internal controls to mitigate risks.

Skills and Qualifications for the RoleThe ideal candidate should possess the following skills and qualifications:

• Educational Requirements:
• A degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Professional accounting qualifications (such as ACCA, CPA, or CIMA) are highly desirable.
• Knowledge of inventory management and cost accounting principles.
• Technical Skills:
• Strong proficiency in Excel (advanced formulas, pivot tables, etc.) and financial modeling.
• Experience using accounting software such as Quick Books, SAP, or similar systems for financial reporting, inventory tracking, and forecasting.
• Familiarity with ERP systems for integrated financial and inventory management.
• Experience:
• At least 5-7 years of experience in a senior accounting role, preferably within the poultry or agriculture industry.
• Demonstrated experience in inventory management and financial forecasting, especially in a multi-location or large-scale operation.
• Ability to prepare financial reports and management accounts, analyzing financial performance.
• Other Skills:
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to work with large datasets.
• Ability to present financial information clearly and concisely to both finance and non-finance staff.
• Leadership and team management skills if leading a small finance team.
• Communication skills for interacting with various departments and management.

Job Title: Senior Accountant – Inventory and Financial Planning

Location: Lilongwe, Malawi

Company: Central Poultry

Job Summary:

Central Poultry is seeking an experienced Senior Accountant to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for managing our inventory, overseeing financial planning, and providing accurate forecasts. You will play a key role in ensuring efficient inventory management and accurate financial projections to support business decisions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and optimize inventory systems, ensuring accurate valuation and reporting.
• Prepare and update financial forecasts, including sales, expenses, and cash flow projections.
• Oversee the preparation of monthly financial reports and variance analysis.
• Work closely with the procurement, production, and sales teams to gather data for financial and inventory planning.
• Implement internal controls to safeguard company assets.
• Lead the preparation of the annual budget and periodic rolling forecasts.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Professional certification (ACCA, CPA, or CIMA) preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in an accounting role, with a focus on inventory management and financial forecasting.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in Excel.
• Experience with accounting software (e.g., Quick Books, SAP).
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary package.
• Health insurance and other benefits.
• Opportunity to work in a dynamic and growing company.

How to Apply: Please send your resume and cover letter to [narendrakumar@capsmw.com] by [30-11-2024].