Senior Accounting Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank is a prominent global institution established to provide funding and knowledge to developing countries. It is a unique partnership of five institutions: IBRD, IDA, IFC, MIGA, and ICSID, all dedicated to ending extreme poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. With 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the World Bank plays a crucial role in addressing the most pressing global challenges through innovative projects and data-driven solutions. The organization emphasizes collaboration with both public and private sector partners to achieve impactful results.

Job Overview:
The Senior Accounting Assistant position at the World Bank is integral to the payroll team in Chennai, focusing on the processing of salary and benefit payments for World Bank Group staff. This role requires meticulous attention to detail and adherence to the Bank's policies and procedures. The Senior Accounting Assistant will be responsible for ensuring the accuracy of payroll payments, coordinating with various stakeholders, and completing tasks within defined timelines. The position demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities effectively, contributing to the overall efficiency of the payroll process.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Accounting Assistant will undertake a variety of duties, including verifying worklist transactions for accuracy, reviewing retro earnings and deduction reports, creating retro earnings/deductions, performing peer reviews, and making necessary adjustments to staff paychecks. The role also involves communicating with staff and managers regarding payroll-related issues, resolving discrepancies with HR, and handling staff queries. Additionally, the Assistant will monitor general ledger accounts, prepare periodic reconciliations, and provide inputs for management reporting. The position requires continuous improvement of processes and participation in the design and implementation of new systems and tools to enhance operational efficiency.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant discipline such as Finance or Accounting. A professional accounting qualification (CA, CPA, ACCA) is mandatory. The ideal candidate should have a minimum of one year of relevant work experience, preferably in a payroll function within the financial services industry. Familiarity with banking transactions and experience in a multinational organization are advantageous. Proficiency in SAP and Microsoft Office tools is essential, and experience with PeopleSoft systems is a plus.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Finance or Accounting. Additionally, candidates must hold a professional accounting qualification such as CA, CPA, or ACCA, which demonstrates a solid foundation in accounting principles and practices necessary for the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant work experience in the functional area, particularly in payroll processing within the financial services sector. Experience in a multinational organization is preferred, as it provides insight into diverse operational practices and compliance requirements. Familiarity with payroll systems and financial transactions is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, which is essential for effective communication within the organization and with stakeholders. While not required, proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in a multicultural work environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of three years. The role is full-time, and the World Bank offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or disability. The closing date for applications is July 30, 2025, at 11:59 PM UTC.