Financial Reporting Lead at Sahel Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition Limited

Sahel Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition Limited (SCANL) is a leading management consulting firm focused on Africa’s agricultural and nutrition sectors. We partner with government agencies, private sector companies, and leading international development organizations to conduct research, analyze policies, develop strategies and implement programs that promote sustainable food security and improved nutrition. We have worked on a variety of projects across West Africa, including in Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Mali, Nigeria, and Senegal.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Financial Reporting Lead

Location:  Abuja (FCT) (with occasional travels across Nigeria)

Key Roles and Responsibilities
Financial Reporting:

• Prepare, review, and oversee the accurate and timely preparation of financial statements, ensuring full compliance with appropriate accounting standards and company accounting policies.
• Ensure accurate financial tracking and reporting for grant-funded projects, meeting donor compliance requirements.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual management reports to provide insights on financial performance.
• Manage the financial close process, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.
• Coordinate external audits and liaise with auditors to ensure accurate and timely completion of financial reporting requirements.

Accounting Functions:

• Oversee all general accounting processes, including accounts payable (AP), accounts receivable (AR), payroll, and fixed assets management.
• Ensure accurate posting and reconciliation of all general ledger accounts, preparing journal entries, and adjustments as required.
• Review and approve reconciliations of bank accounts, intercompany transactions, and key balance sheet accounts.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Financial Planning:

• Lead the budgeting and forecasting process, providing financial insights, scenario planning, and variance analysis for strategic decision-making.
• Develop financial models to support long-term business planning and resource allocation.

Compliance and Internal Controls:

• Ensure all financial practices adhere to applicable regulations and internal control policies.
• Support the design, implementation, and monitoring of financial policies and procedures.
• Coordinate with regulatory bodies to ensure the company meets local and international regulatory requirements, especially around financial reporting.

Process Improvement and Optimization:

• Identify and implement accounting and financial reporting improvements to increase accuracy, efficiency, and timeliness.
• Drive continuous improvements in financial reporting systems, including the implementation of ERP solutions, automation, and digital finance tools to enhance accuracy and efficiency.

Other Responsibilities:

• Collaborate on ad hoc financial analysis, management reporting, and budget support.
• Lead and mentor the finance team, fostering a high-performance culture, providing on-the-job training, and ensuring strong succession planning within the department.

Minimum Required Skills & Experience

• A bachelor’s Degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field (Master’s degree is an advantage).
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in financial reporting, accounting, or financial management, with at least 3 years in a leadership role overseeing financial reporting, audit coordination, or compliance.
• Membership in a professional body (ICAN, ACCA, CFA).
• Strong financial analysis skills and a solid understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting standards, and proficiency in financial modelling.
• Experience in financial reporting for grant-funded projects and compliance with donor regulations is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in financial reporting and accounting software (e.g., SAGE, QuickBooks) and experience in ERP system implementation or enhancements.
• Knowledge of internal controls and risk management frameworks.

Application Closing Date
17th April, 2025.