Assistant Accountant – Tax at Technobrain

Job Purpose:

The Tax Accountant will play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with tax regulations , preparing accurate tax returns, and providing expert advice on tax-related matters. The incumbent will be required to support the business in compliance with both general tax laws and industry-specific regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Overseeing the entire tax management process, including calculations and timely execution of tax payments such as VAT, WHVAT, WHT, Reverse VAT, and corporate taxes.
• Monitoring VAT refunds by tracking the status of VAT refunds and initiates the submission of refund claims promptly when applicable.
• Addressing regulatory requests by ensuring timely responses to information requests from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).
• Coordinating audits and compliance by facilitating any KRA audits and reviews related to compliance.
• Examining and reconciling withholding VAT certificates received during the month with customer accounts on a timely basis.
• Monthly reconciliation of VAT, WHT, and WHVAT returns with the General Ledger (GL), and provides explanations for any discrepancies to management.
• Assisting in Corporate tax computations.
• Supervise tax-related accounting procedures across all aspects impacting our business.
• Support Financial Closures during month-end and year-end tax closing procedures for the purpose of the company’s financial reporting.
• Provide assistance for the statutory tax audit and subsequent filing of annual income tax returns with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).
• Prepare and verify that tax filings VAT, PAYE, withholding taxes, corporate income tax and statutory contributions are accurate and are filed before the statutory due dates.
• Ensure tax compliance with the relevant regulators and become an expert in local tax law to ensure optimal planning.
• Serve as lead liaison with the tax authority.

People Management & Leadership

• Providing leadership and guidance to a team of graduate accountants monitoring their performance and quality of work.
• Motivating and coach the team to operational success.
• Consistently promote high standards and ensure each team members understand expected standards and behavior.

Client Engagement and Management

• Develop, manage and maintain strong mutually beneficial relationships with external stakeholders e.g. tax authorities etc.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related field; Master’s degree or relevant tax certification is a plus.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Chartered Accountant (CA) certification.
• At least 5 years of progressive experience in accounting, or finance field; (with at least a minimum of 1 year in a Tax Accountant position.
• Experience as a Tax Accountant in the oil and gas industry, with a strong understanding of Kenyan tax regulations and their application.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting software and experience using financial systems e.g., ERP systems.
• Knowledge of GAAP, IFRS, and other relevant accounting standards.
• Proficiency in Kenyan tax laws, including VAT, Corporation Tax, and customs and excise duties specific to the oil and gas sector.
• Experience with transfer pricing documentation and compliance.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex financial and tax data.
• Excellent communication skills to interact with internal teams, external partners, and tax authorities.
• Detail-oriented approach to managing tax documentation and records.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and adapt to changes in regulations and industry practices.

Governance and Operational Risk Management

• Accountability for role specific duties and responsibilities as defined in various Company Guidelines and Policies:
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Accountabilities and Delegated Authorities Matrix
• Business Requirement Document (BRD)
• Performance Management Policy
• Risk Management Policies and Procedures
• HR Policies and procedures
• Code of Conduct and Ethical Practice.