ACCOUNT OFFICER

Job Description

About the Role

Business & Financial Times (B&FT) is seeking a highly motivated, analytical, and detail-oriented Accounts Officer to join its Finance Department. The successful candidate will play a critical role in maintaining accurate financial records, supporting financial reporting processes, managing receivables and payables, ensuring statutory compliance, and contributing to sound financial management practices.

This position offers an excellent opportunity for finance professionals looking to build a rewarding career within a fast-paced and reputable media organization.

Key Responsibilities

1. Bookkeeping & Financial Reporting

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date accounting records and financial transactions.
• Record daily financial activities in accordance with approved accounting standards and company policies.
• Assist in the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and reports.
• Support the preparation of management accounts and financial performance reports.
• Reconcile bank accounts, cash books, petty cash, and general ledger accounts regularly.
• Ensure all financial transactions are properly documented and filed.
• Assist with month-end and year-end closing activities.

2. Accounts Receivable Management

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• Generate invoices for advertisements, subscriptions, events, publications, and other revenue streams.
• Monitor customer accounts and follow up on outstanding payments.
• Work closely with the Credit Controller to improve debt recovery and collection efforts.
• Maintain accurate records of credit sales and customer balances.
• Prepare receivable aging reports and provide recommendations for overdue accounts.
• Resolve billing discrepancies and customer account issues promptly.

3. Accounts Payable Management

• Verify invoices, purchase orders, and supporting documentation before payment processing.
• Process supplier payments accurately and within approved timelines.
• Maintain records of creditors, vendor accounts, and outstanding obligations.
• Reconcile supplier statements and investigate discrepancies.
• Ensure compliance with internal procurement and payment procedures.
• Support cash flow planning by monitoring payment schedules and obligations.

4. Statutory Compliance & Tax Administration

• Prepare and file statutory deductions and tax obligations including:
  • PAYE
  • SSNIT Contributions
  • VAT
  • NHIL
  • GETFund Levy
  • COVID Levy (where applicable)
  • Other regulatory taxes and deductions
• Ensure compliance with all Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and statutory reporting requirements.
• Maintain proper records of tax filings and statutory payments.
• Support external audits and regulatory inspections.

5. Budgeting & Cost Control

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• Support the preparation and monitoring of departmental and organizational budgets.
• Monitor operational and production costs related to newspaper publishing and business operations.
• Analyze expenditure trends and identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements.
• Assist management in implementing cost-control initiatives.
• Prepare variance analyses and budget performance reports.

6. Audit & Internal Control Support

• Ensure proper documentation, filing, and maintenance of financial records.
• Support the implementation and monitoring of internal control procedures.
• Assist internal and external auditors by providing required financial information and documentation.
• Ensure compliance with accounting policies and financial procedures.
• Identify areas of financial risk and recommend corrective actions.
• Perform other finance-related duties assigned by the Finance Manager.

Required Qualifications

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in:
  • Accounting
  • Finance
  • Economics
  • Business Administration (Accounting/Finance Option)
  • Or a related discipline

Professional Qualification

• Part-qualified Chartered Accountant (ACCA, ICA Ghana, CIMA, CPA, or equivalent) is highly desirable.
• Professional accounting certification will be an added advantage.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum of 3–4 years’ experience in an accounting or finance role.
• Experience working in a fast-paced corporate environment.
• Previous experience within media, publishing, professional services, or related sectors is an advantage.
• Demonstrated experience in financial reporting, reconciliations, receivables, payables, and tax administration.

Required Skills & Competencies

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of accounting principles and financial reporting standards.
• Proficiency in advanced Microsoft Excel.
• Experience using accounting and financial management software.
• Budgeting and financial analysis skills.
• Tax administration and statutory compliance knowledge.
• Financial reconciliation and reporting expertise.