Bookkeeping Manager - ( CPA FIRM) at Bridge Talent Management

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Bookkeeping Manager to oversee operations and drive excellence across client delivery, compliance, and internal processes. This role requires a leader with strong technical bookkeeping expertise, proven experience in public practice (CPA firm), and the ability to build scalable systems while supervising a growing team.

The successful candidate will combine hands-on technical credibility with the ability to mentor and lead bookkeepers, ensuring accurate records, VAT compliance, and consistent delivery of client deadlines.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead, mentor, and supervise a team of bookkeepers.
• Oversee workload allocation, performance reviews, and professional development.
• Foster a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Client Delivery & Oversight

• Manage bookkeeping across multiple industries and clients.
• Review and sign off on ledgers, reconciliations, and management accounts.
• Track and enforce client deliverables for monthly, quarterly, and annual deadlines.

VAT & Compliance

• Build and maintain robust VAT processes to ensure accurate and timely reporting.
• Review VAT reconciliations and filings before submission.
• Stay updated on Kenyan and international VAT rules, ensuring compliance.

Process Development & Quality Control

• Design, document, and implement bookkeeping checklists and review controls (e.g., bank reconciliations, AR/AP tie-ins, VAT control checks, month-end processes).
• Develop internal control frameworks, staff checklists, and workflow standards.
• Standardize processes for scalability and efficiency across teams.
• Collaborate with colleagues locally and internationally to align best practices and service delivery standards.

Requirements

Essential

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.CPA (K), ACCA, or equivalent professional qualification is mandatory.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a CPA/public practice firm managing multiple clients
• Strong technical bookkeeping knowledge, including VAT and compliance.
• Proven experience in process building, including detailed checklists, control documents, and review frameworks.
• Demonstrated team leadership, performance management, and staff development.
• IT proficiency with accounting software, Excel, and workflow tools.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Desirable

• Experience supporting international clients.
• Knowledge of IFRS and cross-border compliance.
• Prior exposure to automation tools and process improvement projects.

Personal Attributes

• Proven process-builder: Able to explain detailed bookkeeping controls (bank recs, AR/AP tie-ins, VAT checks, month-end processes).
• Hands-on VAT knowledge: Practical understanding of VAT rules, with the ability to set and enforce checks to prevent errors.
• Quality-control mindset: Naturally thinks in terms of evidence, controls, and review standards for junior staff.
• Manager with technical credibility: Leads by example and can roll up sleeves to demonstrate working processes.
• Deadline-driven and organized: Skilled at tracking and enforcing statutory deadlines (VAT, payroll, client deliverables) across multiple clients.
• Highly organized, analytical, and detail-oriented.
• Confident communicator, able to engage senior clients with credibility.
• Proactive, hands-on, and adaptable.