Senior Accounting Officer (Appropriation Accounts)

JOB PURPOSE

Under the direct supervision of the Final Accountant, the Senior Accounting Officer (Appropriation Accounts) is responsible for preparing and maintaining financial statements on a cash accounting basis, in compliance with the Financial Administration and Audit (FAA) Act, regulations, and instructions. The incumbent ensures accurate recording, monitoring, and reporting of cash transactions, and contributes to effective financial management within the Agency.

KEY RESPONSIBILITY AREAS

Technical/Professional Responsibilities

• Generate from Financial System (Sage 300) report of Cash Transactions and convert data for compilation of monthly Trial Balance and Cash Reports.
• Prepare monthly financial reports on the cash accounting basis for submission to the MoFP and comparison to the Estimates of Expenditure.
• Compile and prepare the Annual Appropriations Accounts in keeping with the FAA Act, Regulations and Instructions.
• Ensure that invoices are properly authorized for payment in keeping with the FAA Instructions and standard operating procedures.
• Compare purchase orders, delivery receipts and invoices to confirm that the goods or services were received by the Agency as ordered.
• Maintain accurate and organized records of transactions to facilitate the preparation of the accounts using the cash accounting basis.
• Prepare and maintain audit schedules to support internal and external audits.
• Review payments made to ensure that they are appropriately recorded and coded in the accounting system.
• Prepare journal vouchers as required to ensure accurate accounting entries.
• Review accounts to ensure that balances remaining on the accounts are cleared timely.
• Follow up with internal and external parties to ensure advances issued are promptly cleared from the accounts.
• Provide guidance and support during financial audits and assist with any queries from auditors.

Customer Service Responsibilities

• Maintains customer service principles, standards, and measurements.
• Excellent customer service skills with a pleasing personality and a demonstration of a high level of professionalism
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing

Other Responsibilities

• Performs all other duties and functions as may be required from time to time.
• May be required to provide witness statements, attend court proceedings, and give evidence.
• Complies with Health & Safety Policies & Procedures.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

Core

• Strong analytical, judgment, and problem-solving skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong time management, organizational, and planning skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and integrity.
• Ability to interact effectively with internal and external stakeholders.

Technical

• Expert knowledge of laws and regulations governing public sector accounting practices, including the FAA Act, FAA Regulations
• Sound knowledge of accounting principles and practices, including International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS).
• Sound knowledge of auditing practices and principles.
• Working knowledge of Jamaica Customs Agency business activities.
• Proficiency in relevant computer systems and accounting software such as Sage 300.
• Working knowledge of the Agency’s operations and financial processes.

MINIMUM REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• First Degree in Accounting, Public Administration, Business Management, or related field with emphasis in Accounting.

OR

• Completion of CAT Level 3 or ACCA-AAT Level 3 or ACCA Level 1
• Any combination of education, training and experience that provides equivalent knowledge, abilities, and skills.
• At least one (2) year’s related experience.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE JOB

• Work will be conducted in an office outfitted with standard office equipment and specialized software.
• The environment is fast paced with on-going interactions with critical stakeholders and meeting tight deadlines which will result in high degrees of pressure, on occasions.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by HRMD