Principal Accountant - Tax at Safaricom Kenya

JOB DESCRIPTION

• We are pleased to announce the following vacancy , Principal Accountant - Tax, in the Tax department of the Finance Division. In keeping with our current business needs, we are looking for a person who meets the criteria indicated below.

Brief Posting Description                      

• Reporting to the Senior Manager; Group Tax, the role holder will ensure tax compliance is adhered to by complying with tax controls, procedures and processes that are in place, in addition to identifying and supporting areas of tax planning to enhance operation efficiencies within the business.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Proactively advise and support the wider business in providing and coordinating tax advice on the implications of key transactions and ad hoc projects, including related party transactions.
• Identify and ensure that legislative changes are reviewed and adopted in a timely manner, including implementation of system changes where necessary.
• Manage relationships with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and external tax service providers for tax-related queries and changes in tax legislation specific to the telecommunication industry.
• Research solutions and risk mitigation for any emerging tax issues across the Group. 
• Prepare the Group’s periodic (monthly and annual) accounting (income and deferred tax) provisions and related financial statement disclosures, including tax planning and forecasting reports.
• Coordinate with external tax advisors on Kenya corporation tax computations and returns and ensure timely submissions.
• Ensure monthly tax returns (VAT, excise duty and withholding tax) are prepared and submitted to the KRA within prescribed timelines, including payment of the corresponding tax liabilities.
• Manage payment of customs duties and levies.
• Oversight of PAYE for payroll purposes.
• On an ongoing basis, review the overall management of tax compliance processes within the Group (tax health check).
• Work with, and where required provide training to the Finance, Support and Commercial Functions’ teams to ensure optimization of tax efficiencies and mitigation of tax exposures within the controls environment. 

QUALIFICATIONS

• University degree in Law, Finance or business-related fields from a recognized university.
• At least one full professional qualification in accounting e.g., CPA, ACCA, CTA or an equivalent.
• 8 years’ experience in progressive tax finance roles covering tax planning, reporting, compliance, and accounting, 5 years of which should have been spent in a professional tax firm.
• In depth experience and technical knowledge of tax accounting and disclosures for accounting purposes, including deferred tax and prior year adjustments.
• Experience in proactive management of tax matters, keeping up to date with changes in the regulatory environment and dealing with Tax Authorities will be an added advantage.
• Proactive, confident, energetic with the ability to work under pressure, to tight schedules/deadlines and monitor and follow up on all actions taken.
• Ability to collaborate and communicate with confidence and influence diverse stakeholders.
• A proven team player with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.