Z24146/Z24148 Accounting Assistant

CIMMYT is a cutting edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow’s problems today. It is entrusted with fostering improved quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops through applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South, through building strong partnerships. This combination enhances the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers, while working towards a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries.

We are seeking 2 highly skilled and motivated candidates for the position of Accounting Assistant to be based in Harare, Zimbabwe. This is a nationally recruited position and is open to all Zimbabweans with excellent academic records and relevant experiences. The successful candidate will support the programs to ensure proper financial management and accountability of assets for the organization.  

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Payment Processing
• Ensuring timely payments to vendors and staff
• Review and verify invoices and payment details for accuracy and completeness.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date payment records and file all vouchers accordingly.
• Staff Advances /Vendor management
• Reconciliation of advance/supplier accounts and follow-up on outstanding balances with staff.
• Analyze accounts receivables/payables age analysis and ensure compliance with liquidation policies; recommend areas for improvement.
• Respond to supplier payment inquiries / queries and resolve any issues/discrepancies with guidance from the accountant.
• Collaborate with HR to onboard new staff and update receivables information and procurement team to onboard new suppliers and update supplier information.
• Maintain accurate and updated staff/vendor account information.
• Financial Analysis and Reporting
• Prepare monthly bank reconciliation statements.
• Follow up on long outstanding unreconciled items.
• Contribute to the month-end closing process by providing accurate and timely information.
• VAT
• Monthly review of VAT Receivable account, prepare invoices and schedules for submission to ZIMRA.
• Produce a list of Withholding tax payments processed for reconciliation.
• Prepare payments of taxation returns and follow-up submissions regularly.
• Internal controls and compliance
• Support the implementation and enforcement of finance policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with CIMMYT guidelines, accounting principles, and regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to audit processes.
• Asset management
• Maintain an updated Equipment and Asset register.
• Support in asset verifications and counts; reviewing asset condition.
• Maintain accurate filed records for all assets.

• Hold a Degree in Accounting or related field.
• Familiarity with information management systems and IFRS.
• Knowledge of tax legislation.
• At least 1 year of work-related learning experience in related field.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Must be a reliable employee who is able to perform routine tasks without supervision.
• The selected candidate must be able to demonstrate the following competencies: Communication, Creative thinking, Teamwork, Client Orientation, and ability to work in a multi-cultural environment.

Kindly fill and submit the online form no later than Wednesday 8th May 2024.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equality. Women candidates are encouraged to apply.