Why Hire an Accountant?

Hiring an accountant can be a game-changer for any organization. Accounting forms the financial backbone, ensuring smooth operations, strategic planning, and compliance. Whether it’s a CPA, auditor, tax accountant, or investment accountant, here’s why you might need one:

1. Accurate Reporting: Accountants provide precise financial reports that help in making informed decisions aligned with company goals.
2. Security: They safeguard financial data and lead special projects within and across departments.
3. Compliance: Accountants ensure adherence to financial laws and regulations, advising management on necessary actions.
4. Forecasting: They predict market trends and consumer behavior, helping your company stay ahead.

Accountants are invaluable assets, providing expertise and peace of mind in managing your financial landscape.

9 Steps to Hire an Accountant

Hiring an accountant is a crucial task for any business. Follow these 9 steps to ensure you find the right fit for your organization:

Step 1: Identify Your Needs

Determine the specific accounting skills and qualifications you need. Consider whether you require a general accountant, a CPA, or a specialist in areas like tax or auditing.

Step 2: Create a Detailed Job Description

Write a clear and concise job description that outlines the responsibilities, required qualifications, and skills. Include information about your company culture and what makes the role attractive.

Step 3: Choose the Right Recruitment Channels

Select the platforms and tools best suited for your recruitment needs. Utilize job boards like LinkedIn Jobs, Indeed, and MyJobMag, as well as professional networks and recruitment agencies.

Step 4: Screen Applications

Review resumes and cover letters to shortlist candidates who meet your criteria. Look for relevant experience, certifications, and educational background.

Step 5: Conduct Interviews

Schedule interviews with shortlisted candidates. Prepare questions that assess their technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit with your organization.

Step 6: Test Their Skills

Consider giving candidates a practical test or assignment related to accounting tasks they will perform on the job. This can help you gauge their competency and accuracy.

Step 7: Check References

Contact the references provided by your top candidates. Verify their work history, performance, and reliability through these references.

Step 8: Make an Offer

Choose the best candidate and make a formal job offer. Ensure the offer includes details about salary, benefits, and job expectations.

Step 9: Onboard the New Accountant

Once the candidate accepts the offer, start the onboarding process. Provide necessary training and resources to help them integrate smoothly into your team.

Skills and Qualifications to Look for in an Accountant

Although every organization has different needs, many recruiters and hiring managers look for accountants with the following skills and qualifications. Understanding which skills and qualifications are required and which are preferred can help you determine the best-fit candidate
Typically Required Skills and Qualifications

1. Master’s Degree or Equivalent:
   • In accounting, business accounting, or finance, providing a strong educational foundation.
2. Corporate Accounting Experience:
   • Five or more years, ensuring practical knowledge and proficiency.
3. Personal Integrity:
   • Ability to maintain customer and company confidences, emphasizing trustworthiness.
4. Accounting and Finance Knowledge:
   • Comprehensive understanding of principles and procedures, essential for accurate financial management.
5. Audit and International Accounting Experience:
   • Experience in auditing and international accounting practices, crucial for global operations.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

1. Accounting Software Proficiency:
   • Working knowledge of specific accounting platforms, enhancing efficiency.
2. Mathematical Skills:
   • Proficient or passionate about math, ensuring accuracy in financial calculations.
3. Detail and Deadline Orientation:
   • Strong focus on details and meeting deadlines, critical for timely and precise reporting.
4. GAAP Knowledge:
   • Extensive understanding of generally accepted accounting principles in the US, ensuring compliance.
5. CPA License:
   • Certification as a Certified Public Accountant, demonstrating advanced expertise and credibility.

Job Experience to Look For When Recruiting an Accountant

When reviewing profiles of candidates keep your eyes open for roles which may have required a solid foundation of accounting skills to ensure financial accuracy, compliance, and strategic financial planning. Some of the experiences are summarized below

Bank Teller

Bank tellers handle financial transactions such as deposits, withdrawals, and transfers. They must accurately record transactions and ensure compliance with banking regulations. Their role requires strong attention to detail and basic accounting knowledge.

Controller

Controllers oversee the accounting operations of a company, including financial reporting, budgeting, and auditing. They ensure accuracy in financial statements and compliance with regulations, leveraging their extensive accounting expertise.

Director of Donor Relations

This role involves managing relationships with donors and ensuring the proper allocation and tracking of donations. Accounting skills are crucial for preparing financial reports and ensuring transparency in fund usage.

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts evaluate financial data to assist in decision-making processes. They use accounting skills to analyze financial statements, forecast future performance, and provide insights on investments.

Fundraiser

Fundraisers organize campaigns to raise funds for organizations. They use accounting skills to manage budgets, track donations, and report on financial outcomes to stakeholders.

Loan Officer

Loan officers evaluate and approve loan applications. They use accounting principles to assess the financial health of applicants and determine their creditworthiness.

Account Manager

Account managers maintain client relationships and ensure their financial needs are met. They use accounting skills to manage budgets, prepare financial reports, and offer financial advice.

Accounts Receivable Specialist

These specialists manage incoming payments and ensure that accounts are paid on time. They use accounting skills to track invoices, process payments, and maintain accurate financial records.

Chief Revenue Officer

The Chief Revenue Officer is responsible for all revenue-generating processes within an organization. They use accounting skills to forecast revenue, analyze financial data, and develop strategies to increase profitability.

What Tools can Help Recruiting an Accountant in Kenya?

LinkedIN Jobs

LinkedIn Jobs service allows you to create job posts quickly and target them to relevant members. It helps you get matched with the right candidates, providing insights to prioritize those to interview. Additionally, you can manage your job listings based on your hiring needs, promoting priority and hard-to-fill roles to attract more qualified candidates.

BrighterMonday

BrighterMonday was founded in Kenya in 2006 and operates in all major East African markets, the goal of the company is to maximise the opportunities for East Africa’s job seekers and employers. Their website attracts over 900,000 views monthly. BrighterMonday has a strong presence in the East African market with over 20,000 followers on Twitter and almost 300,000on Facebook. BrighterMondays is easy-to-use for both talent and employers.. As far as job boards for professionals in Kenya go, this is one of the simplest and most efficient.

New Kenya Jobs

New Kenya Jobs is another popular job site in Kenya. Previously called Kenyan Jobs Blogspot, this job board is designed for candidates to search for jobs by category. The website is easy to use and candidates can find specific jobs using keywords. There is also an emailing subscription service where job seekers can get a relevant job opening notifications in their inbox.

MyJobMag

MyJobMag is a comprehensive job board in Kenya that focuses on various fields, including accounting and auditing, particularly in the Kenyan job market. By posting your accounting job vacancies on MyJobMag, you can tap into a targeted pool of local professionals. The platform allows you to create detailed job listings and access a database of qualified candidates actively seeking positions in accounting and auditing. MyJobMag also offers additional services such as resume reviews and job listing promotions, which can help attract more qualified candidates and streamline your recruitment process.

Upwork

For freelance or temporary accounting needs, Upwork is an excellent platform. You can post specific projects and review bids from accountants worldwide. Upwork’s rating and review system helps you gauge the reliability and expertise of potential hires, ensuring you find a suitable candidate for your accounting tasks.

Recruitment Agencies

Sometimes, the traditional approach of working with a recruitment agency can be highly effective. Agencies specializing in accounting and finance can provide access to a network of pre-screened candidates. They handle the initial stages of recruitment, including screening and interviewing, saving you time and effort.

Social Media Platforms

Utilizing social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram can help you reach a broader audience. Share job postings on your company’s social media pages and encourage your employees to share within their networks. Engaging content and company culture posts can attract passive candidates who might not be actively looking for a job but are open to new opportunities.

Business Services Providers

Partnering with business services providers like Revise Finance can be an effective strategy for recruiting an accountant. These providers offer specialized services tailored to the accounting and finance sector. Revise Finance, for instance, not only provides part time or full time outsourced accountant services find but also provides financial consulting, bookkeeping, and audit services. Business services providers often offer insights and advice on best practices in finance management, adding further value beyond accounting.