Job Description

The Opportunity

Under the Save the Children–Balaka District Council Project, we are seeking a qualified and motivated Accounts Assistant to support effective financial management and accountability of project funds.

The Accounts Assistant will play a key role in ensuring proper financial record keeping, budget monitoring, payment processing, reporting, and compliance with donor and organisational financial procedures. The role will be based at the Balaka District Education Office.

The successful candidate will work closely with the District Accountant and the Project Coordinator to ensure accurate, transparent, and timely financial management in line with donor requirements and organisational standards.

Reporting to: District Accountant (with matrix reporting to Project Coordinator) Key Responsibilities: Financial Record Keeping

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records.
• Record daily transactions including receipts, payments, and invoices.
• Ensure proper filing and documentation of all financial records.

Budget Management

• Assist in the preparation of project budgets.
• Monitor expenditure against approved budgets.
• Support cost control and ensure compliance with budget limits.

Payment Processing

• Prepare and process payments (cash, bank transfers, cheques).
• Verify supporting documentation before payments are made.
• Ensure all payments are properly authorised.

Financial Reporting

• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports.
• Provide financial summaries for management and donors.
• Support internal and external audit processes.

Bank and Cash Management

• Manage petty cash and ensure timely reconciliation.
• Conduct regular bank reconciliations.
• Monitor cash flow to ensure availability of funds.

Compliance and Accountability

• Ensure compliance with donor and government financial regulations.
• Maintain transparency and accountability in all financial transactions.
• Support audit processes and provide required documentation.

Payroll Support

• Assist in processing salaries and staff allowances.
• Ensure correct deductions (tax and benefits) are applied.
• Maintain accurate payroll records.

Finance Team Support

• Provide administrative and accounting support to senior finance staff.
• Assist in improving financial systems and procedures.
• Support financial planning and forecasting activities.

To be successful, you will bring/have:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accountancy, Finance, Applied Accounting, Auditing and Information Systems, or a related field.
• At least four (4) years’ progressive experience in donor-funded projects.
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles and financial reporting.
• Experience in budget management and financial controls.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in financial and computer applications.
• High level of integrity, confidentiality, and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and organisational skills.

NB; Cvs will be reviewed on rolling basis

Equal Opportunity, Safeguarding and Recruitment Notice

Save the Children is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds, including persons with disabilities. We are committed to safeguarding children and our recruitment process includes strict background checks. Save the Children does not charge any fees at any stage of recruitment.Pease be aware of recruitment scams and only trust official communication channels.