SLL Accounts Assistant Akros Research

Akros is a cutting-edge organization that establishes data-driven systems that improve the health and wellbeing of disadvantaged communities. We pride ourselves in our ground-level knowledge of the health systems where we work, and our ability to provide novel, lasting solutions implemented in developing regions.

Background

Akros Research is supporting a 3-year program, funded by the Mastercard Foundation and in partnership with the Africa CDC, to increase Covid19 vaccine uptake in Africa. This initiative, called Saving Lives and Livelihoods, includes multiple components and partners working to procure, distribute, and promote vaccine uptake in a safe manner.  As a part of this consortium Akros Research will support Africa Union members states in the Eastern and Southern African regions to strengthen COVID-19 vaccine safety surveillance systems.

The Accounts Assistant will assist the Finance Manager in the implementation of internal control systems and financial procedures, ensuring full compliance of Akros Research, Africa CDC, and Mastercard Foundation regulations, policies, and procedures; and in preparing financial documentation for transactions as required by Africa CDC and Mastercard Foundation.

Specific Responsibilities

1. Financial controls and record keeping

• Support the Finance Manager in recording financial transactions, preparing financial statements and reports and keeping the accounts records up to date.
• Ensure travel requisitions are prepared in accordance with organization authorizations and procedures;
• Ensure travel requisitions and purchase requests are appropriately retired, and track the status of outstanding requisitions / requests
• Ensure appropriate electronic and hard copy documentation is retained and filed in accordance with organization policy and donor / regulatory requirements,
• Process project transactions in a timely manner;
• Maintain a electornic tracker for all requisitions and requests with daily updates;

2. Cash, bank and payments

• Prepare monthly bank reconciliations
• Monitor regional payment platforms
• Ensure that Quickbooks is kept up to date with financial postings
• Process timesheets required for Payroll

3. Other Duties

•  Prepare analysis and summary information as requested by the Finance Manager
• Carry out any other duties that may be assigned to you from time to time

Minimum Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree (minimum) in accounting, finance or a related field may be preferred with at least five years of accounting experience
• Proficiency in accounting software.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Broad knowledge of accounting principles
• Excellent computer skills with fluency in Excel, Quickbooks and other web-based regional financial platforms
• Candidate should be highly productive and internally motivated
• Ability to remain focused on deadlines and targets
• Good communication skills.

Due to the nature of the project, Akros is limiting project staff members to those who have been vaccinated for Covid19 or those who are able to provide a valid medical exemption for Covid vaccination. This documentation will be required before commencing work.

This position is contingent upon securing and maintaining program funding. It is also contingent upon donor approval.

Location and Term

This position will be based at Akros Research offices in Lusaka, Zambia for the duration of this assignment. The position will be for three years.

Reporting

This position reports directly to the Finance Manager, who will review and approve time records.