Senior Accounting Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a unique global partnership of five institutions established with the mission to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. It is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, helping to solve the world’s greatest development challenges. The organization has 189 member countries and operates more than 120 offices worldwide, working with both public and private sector partners to invest in groundbreaking projects and utilize data, research, and technology to bring about transformative changes globally. For more information, visit http://www.worldbank.org/

Job Overview:
The Senior Accounting Assistant position is part of the World Bank's Finance & Accounting (CTR) Vice Presidency, which is responsible for financial reporting and internal control frameworks for IBRD and IDA, as well as managing the extensive Trust Fund/Partnership portfolio. The role is crucial in supporting fiduciary control frameworks and administering disbursements for Bank lending. The CTR is divided into three departments: Corporate Accounting and Reporting, Trust Funds and Loans, and Financial Controls. The CTR Financial Operations (CTRFO) division is tasked with the fair recording and reporting of the World Bank Group’s administrative expenses and fixed assets, which have a combined financial statement value of nearly $4.0 billion. The Senior Accounting Assistant will be responsible for processing payments to vendors and staff, requiring extensive interaction with accounting staff at HQ and country offices, as well as vendors. This role is integral to ensuring accurate financial operations and reporting within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Accounting Assistant will have a variety of responsibilities, including: continuously monitoring all General Ledger (GL) accounts and preparing periodic reconciliations; following up with clients and other units on aged and critical items; preparing monthly Trial Balances and analyzing variances; providing inputs for Management Reporting and Analysis; compiling and monitoring KPIs and metrics monthly; liaising with the Data Analytics team to obtain and explain monthly MIS reports; implementing relevant accounting policies; undertaking General Ledger Accounting entries; participating in user testing and implementation of new systems; processing payments to staff and vendors; applying US GAAP provisions for accrual accounting; responding to vendor queries; and maintaining excellent client rapport while demonstrating strong client service skills.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a professional accounting qualification such as CA, CPA, ACCA, or an equivalent. Fresh graduates are welcome to apply, although having post-qualification experience is an advantage. A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant discipline such as Finance, Accounting, or Taxation is also beneficial. Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in accounting or finance roles, demonstrating a solid understanding of accounting principles and policies, as well as internal control frameworks.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a professional accounting qualification (CA, CPA, ACCA, or equivalent) and a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Finance, Accounting, or Taxation. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to perform the duties of the role effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in accounting or finance. Candidates should have experience with GL posting, reconciling bank accounts, and preparing basic accounting reports. Familiarity with accounting systems, particularly SAP FI, is desirable, as well as experience with data analysis tools such as Power BI and Tableau. Candidates should also have hands-on experience with transaction processing using integrated, automated accounting systems, similar in complexity to SAP.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. While no additional languages are specified as preferred, proficiency in other languages may be beneficial in a diverse workplace such as the World Bank Group.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly and without discrimination based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.