Page 125 - JobsPlus - Occupational Handbook

Accountant
Occupation Code: 2411
Alternative titles: Management Accountant, Financial Accountant, Financial Controller
Job description and duties
Accountants are responsible for preparing, analysing and evaluating financial information in order to advise management (or a client) on decisions which impact the financial performance of the firm (or organisation) or which concern the setting up of organisational strategies and goals. Accountants may either be part of a large team of professionals, or be the sole financially trained member of staff in a company. After gaining years of experience as an Accountant, one may progress to a Financial Controller role. Although duties will vary depending on the setting, an Accountant is typically expected to:
• Prepare internal financial reports and/ or management accounts for the client/ management, such as budgets, investment appraisal, performance analysis and business plans
• Preparation, review and timely submission of tax returns and VAT returns
• Oversee the payroll (where applicable)
• Monitor company (or organisation)
performance and be able to effectively
analyse client’s financial position
• Use an array of sophisticated management accounting techniques to be able to generate data and information relevant for
decision making
• Advise management on strategic issues of
the firm to improve business efficiency and
profitability
• Develop financial forecasts as well as risk
analysis reports
• Correctly apply the latest accounting
procedures in line with applicable financial reporting standards (such as IFRS) and relevant legislation
• Manage workload with other colleagues and regularly meeting clients
• Supervise the work of junior employees such as Accounting and Bookkeeping Clerks and Accounts Executives (where applicable)
• Liaise with Auditors at end of year (where applicable)
• Conduct financial investigation in such matters as suspected fraud, insolvency and bankruptcy
• Keep up-to-date with developments in relevant legislation and international financial reporting standards and corporate governance
• Adhere to ethical rules that govern the profession
Work environment
Accountants may either be part of a company’s internal structure to provide accounting services
Occupational Handbook 2018
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