The Accountant manages and oversees the accounting processes for Business Barbados, ensuring timely and accurate billing, collection of receivables, and reconciliation of accounts, processing of vendor invoices, payments, and reconciliation of accounts. The Accountant maintains strong relationships with stakeholders, ensures compliance with financial policies, and supports the overall financial operations of the organization.
Key Responsibilities
1. Invoice Processing (Payables)
- Receive, review, and verify vendor invoices for accuracy, completeness, and proper authorization.
- Enter invoices into the accounting system and ensure correct coding to appropriate accounts and cost centers.
- Match invoices with purchase orders and receiving documents to verify receipt of goods or services.
2. Payment Processing
- Prepare and process payments to vendors, including checks, electronic transfers, and other payment methods.
- Ensure timely and accurate payment of invoices according to agreed-upon terms and conditions.
- Maintain and reconcile the accounts payable ledger, ensuring all transactions are recorded and balanced.
3. Invoice Processing (Receivables)
- Generate and issue invoices to customers in a timely and accurate manner.
- Ensure that all invoices are properly recorded in the accounting system.
- Verify the accuracy of billing information and resolve any discrepancies.
4. Customer Account Management
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date customer records, including contact information, payment terms, and transaction history.
- Liaise with Customer Experience team to respond to customer inquiries regarding invoices, payments, and account balances.
- Resolve billing disputes and discrepancies in a professional and timely manner.
5. Vendor Management
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date vendor records, including contact information, payment terms, and account details.
- Communicate with vendors to resolve invoice discrepancies, payment issues, and other inquiries.
- Establish and maintain positive relationships with vendors to ensure smooth and efficient transactions.
6. Reconciliation and Reporting
- Perform regular reconciliation of accounts payable balances with vendor statements and internal records.
- Prepare accounts payable reports and analyses for management review.
- Assist in the month-end and year-end closing processes by providing necessary accounts payable information and reports.
7. Compliance and Controls
- Ensure compliance with internal financial policies, procedures, and controls related to accounts payable.
- Adhere to relevant regulatory requirements and accounting standards.
- Assist with internal and external audits by providing documentation and explanations related to accounts payable transactions.
8. Expense Management
- Monitor and control company expenses to ensure they are within budget and properly authorized.
- Assist in the development and implementation of expense management policies and procedures.
- Provide support for expense reporting and reimbursement processes.
9. System and Process Improvement
- Identify opportunities to streamline and improve accounts payable processes and systems.
- Participate in the implementation of new accounting software or upgrades as needed.
- Stay updated with industry best practices and trends in accounts payable management.
10. Collaboration and Support
- Work closely with the finance team to ensure alignment and consistency in financial operations aligned to team KPIs.
- Provide support for special projects and initiatives related to accounts payable and financial management.
- Assist with other accounting and finance duties as assigned.
11. Other Duties
- Perform any other job-related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
- Professional certification (e.g. CPA) preferred.
- Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in accounts payable or general accounting.
- Knowledge of accounting principles, accounts payable processes, and financial reporting standards.
Skills and Competencies
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- High level of integrity and professional ethics.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Key Attributes
- Proactive and solution-oriented approach.
- Detail-oriented and highly organized.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships with vendors and stakeholders.
- Commitment to continuous professional development and staying updated with accounting trends and changes.
Working Conditions
- This position operates primarily in an office environment, with occasional travel for meetings or presentations.
- Flexibility in working hours may be required to accommodate client needs or deadlines.
- Professional demeanour and adherence to confidentiality standards are essential.
