Accountant at Discovering Talents Academy

Discovering Talents Academy, a fast-growing Nursery and Primary School in Gwarinpa, Abuja, offers first class education from preschool to primary levels. Discovering Talents Academy uses the Blended Nigeria-Montessori curriculum in Early Years and a Blended Nigeria-British curriculum at the primary level. Discovering Talents Academy does not only focus on best practices in the teaching and learning process, it also builds talents in a wide range of skills and this in a short while affirms their ego and builds their confidence. At Discovering Talents Academy we believe that every child is unique and talented, this drive leads us to establishing rich skill aquisition programmes for students.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Accountant

Location: Gwarinpa, Abuja (FCT) 
Employment Type: Full-time

Job Summary

• The Accountant at Discovering Talents Academy (DTA) is responsible for managing all financial transactions, maintaining accurate financial records, and ensuring the fiscal health of the organization.
• This role is critical in supporting DTA's operational efficiency and strategic growth by providing timely and reliable financial information.
• The Accountant will ensure strict adherence to financial policies, contribute to a culture of transparency, and support the school's mission and vision through sound financial management.

Key Responsibilities
Financial Record Keeping & Reporting:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records, including ledgers, journals, and financial statements.
• Process all financial transactions, including receipts, payments, invoices, and payroll, ensuring proper categorization and documentation.
• Prepare regular financial reports, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, for management review.
• Reconcile bank statements and other financial accounts regularly to ensure accuracy.
• Ensure all financial records are balanced and kept up to date, addressing any discrepancies promptly.

Fee Management & Collection:

• Manage the invoicing and collection of school fees from parents/guardians, ensuring timely payments.
• Track outstanding balances and implement follow-up procedures in accordance with school policy.
• Liaise with parents/guardians regarding fee inquiries and payment plans, while adhering to DTA's strict policy of direct bank payments (no physical cash collection).

Budgeting & Financial Planning Support:

• Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and financial forecasts.
• Monitor budget adherence, identify variances, and provide insights to management for financial planning and decision-making.
• Contribute to financial strategies that support the school's growth and sustainability.

Payroll Management:

• Process monthly payroll for all staff, ensuring accurate calculations of salaries, deductions (including compulsory savings scheme contributions), and benefits.
• Ensure timely disbursement of salaries and adherence to all relevant tax and labor regulations.
• Manage records related to the DTA Compulsory Savings Scheme, including staff contributions and school matching funds, ensuring compliance with the scheme's regulations.

Compliance & Audit:

• Ensure all financial operations comply with DTA's internal policies, accounting standards, and relevant regulatory requirements.
• Prepare necessary documentation and provide support for internal and external audits.
• Implement and maintain strong internal financial controls to safeguard school assets.

Communication & Collaboration:

• Provide financial insights and advice to the Head of School and other management staff as needed.
• Collaborate with the Admin Officer and other departments to ensure seamless financial processes and information flow.
• Respond to financial queries from staff and management in a professional and timely manner.

Compulsory Savings Scheme Management:

• Oversee the financial aspects of the DTA Compulsory Savings Scheme, ensuring accurate deductions, matching contributions, and record-keeping.
• Manage loan applications from the scheme, ensuring adherence to the 2% flat interest rate and the 200% borrowing limit (terms and conditions apply).
• Facilitate the distribution of interest allocations to staff at the end of the accounting year, pro-rated based on savings.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. Professional accounting qualification (e.g., ICAN, ACCA) is highly preferred.
• Experience:Minimum of [e.g., 3-5] years of proven experience as an Accountant, preferably within an educational institution or a similar service-oriented organization.
• Knowledge:Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting standards, payroll management, and relevant tax regulations. Familiarity with financial management of savings schemes is an advantage.
• Technological Proficiency:Advanced proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Sage), spreadsheet software (Microsoft Excel), and school management software (e.g., DTA software).
• Analytical Skills:Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with keen attention to detail and accuracy in financial data.
• Communication:Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly.

Key Competencies:

• Financial Accounting & Reporting
• Data Accuracy & Attention to Detail
• Financial Analysis & Budgeting
• Compliance & Internal Controls
• Payroll & Benefits Administration
• Problem-Solving & Decision-Making
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills
• Confidentiality & Integrity
• Time Management & Punctuality
• Commitment to DTA's Vision and Mission

Application Closing Date
31st August, 2025.