Chief Accountant

1. Job PurposeThe Chief Accountant is responsible for leading and managing the full accounting function of GreenSM's operations in the Coast Ivory (Côte d'Ivoire) market. This role ensures the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial records, compliance with local statutory and tax regulations (OHADA accounting standards), and the provision of reliable financial information to support business decision-making across the retail/supermarket operations.2. Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Reporting & Accounting OperationsOversee the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in compliance with OHADA/SYSCOHADA accounting standards and group reporting requirements.Manage the full accounting cycle: general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, fixed assets, inventory costing, and bank reconciliations.Ensure timely month-end and year-end closing processes, with accurate accruals, provisions, and reconciliations.Consolidate financial data across GreenSM store locations/branches within the Coast Ivory market.Prepare management reports, variance analysis, and financial dashboards for the CFO and senior leadership.Tax & Statutory ComplianceEnsure full compliance with Ivorian tax laws (VAT, corporate income tax, payroll tax, withholding tax) and timely filing with local tax authorities (DGI).Liaise with external auditors, tax consultants, and regulatory bodies during audits and statutory filings.Maintain up-to-date knowledge of OHADA accounting regulations and local labor/finance legislation affecting the business.Manage relationships with banks, local authorities, and statutory bodies as required.Internal Controls & Risk ManagementDesign, implement, and monitor internal control procedures to safeguard company assets and ensure accuracy of financial data.Conduct periodic internal audits/reviews of store-level cash handling, inventory, and expense processes.Identify financial risks and recommend corrective actions or process improvements.Budgeting, Cash Flow & Cost ControlSupport the annual budgeting and forecasting process in coordination with the CFO/Finance Director.Monitor cash flow, working capital, and cost of goods sold (COGS) across retail outlets.Analyze store-level and category-level profitability to support commercial and operational decisions.Team Leadership & Stakeholder ManagementLead, coach, and develop the accounting team, ensuring capability building and succession readiness.Act as the key finance liaison for internal departments (Operations, Commercial, Supply Chain) and external stakeholders (auditors, banks, tax authorities, suppliers).Drive process automation and system improvements (ERP/accounting systems) to enhance efficiency and reporting accuracy.3. Qualifications & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; professional accounting certification (DECOFI, DSCG, ACCA, CPA, or equivalent) is a strong advantage.Minimum 7–10 years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 3 years in a Chief Accountant / Accounting Manager role.Experience in retail, supermarket, FMCG, or multi-site operations is highly preferred.Strong working knowledge of OHADA/SYSCOHADA accounting standards and Ivorian tax regulations.Proven experience managing external audits and statutory filings.Proficiency in ERP/accounting software (e.g., SAP, Sage, Oracle, or similar) and advanced Excel skills.Fluency in French required; working proficiency in English is an advantage given regional/group reporting.4. Key Competencies & SkillsStrong analytical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail and accuracy.Solid understanding of internal controls, risk management, and compliance frameworks.Effective leadership and people management capability.Strong communication and stakeholder management skills across all levels.Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced retail environment.High integrity, confidentiality, and professional ethics.5. Working ConditionsBased in Coast Ivory Market (Côte d'Ivoire), with periodic travel to other locations as required.Standard office hours with flexibility to support month-end/year-end closing periods and audits.