Accountant-Retail

About Us We are an expanding multi-branch retail operations chain based in Zanzibar, Tanzania. The Role We are seeking a motivated and results-driven Tanzanian Accountant, who will be based in Zanzibar to manage our day-to-day accounting and finance requirements. The successful candidate will be able to close books of accounts, prepare monthly reports to management, cash-flow forecasts, and oversee reconciliations. They should be comfortable with the ambiguity of a scaling business and able to build systems, not just maintain them. Experienced in a retail or inventory-intensive business, with ERP experience; Odoo is a strong advantage. The role requires experience in inventory valuation accuracy, cash control assurance, gross-margin visibility and accuracy, landed-cost validation, budgeting and forecasting, SOP/audit compliance, P&L and Tanzanian tax knowledge and statutory compliance. Key Responsibilities Maintain accurate, complete and up-to-date accounting records. Monitor revenue, expenses, cash flow and overall financial performance. Provide management with relevant financial analysis and insights to support informed decision-making. Maintain proper financial documentation and audit trails for all transactions. Support external audits as required. Prepare monthly financial reports and summaries for management. Process monthly payroll accurately and within stipulated timelines. Ensure accurate computation, deduction and remittance of statutory contributions and taxes. Liaise with relevant statutory bodies, auditors and tax advisers as required. Maintain accurate accounting records for operational stock. Support regular stock-taking, stock reconciliations and investigations into inventory variances. Maintain accurate inventory records and prepare periodic stock reports. Work closely with Warehouse, Retail Stores, Procurement, Operations and other relevant teams to strengthen inventory controls and accountability. Monitor operating expenses and identify opportunities to improve cost efficiency. Manage petty cash and other business-related expenditures. Monitor operational costs and ensure accurate recording in the accounting system. Ensure effective financial controls, approval procedures, documentation and filing systems are maintained. Provide management with timely and accurate financial information to facilitate planning and decision-making. Identify gaps in existing financial processes and recommend practical improvements. Key Qualifications and Experience Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. At least 3–5 years of relevant accounting experience. Experience working in a retail or inventory-intensive business is an added advantage. Demonstrated experience in financial reporting, reconciliations and cash-flow management. Practical experience in costing, inventory valuation, variance analysis and cost control. Hands-on experience with ERP systems; Odoo is a strong advantage. Knowledge of Tanzanian tax and statutory compliance requirements. Key Competencies Strong analytical, numerical and problem-solving skills. High level of accuracy, integrity and attention to detail. Ability to work independently, take initiative and meet strict deadlines. Strong understanding of financial controls and accountability. Must be based in or willing to move to Zanzibar at your own arrangements.