Alliance Française Nairobi, a premier language and cultural institution in Kenya, invites applications for the role of Accountant within its Finance Department. This full-time position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the financial operations of an internationally recognized organization that champions French language education and cross-cultural engagement in East Africa.
About Alliance Française Nairobi
Located in the heart of Nairobi at Utalii Lane, Alliance Française is a not-for-profit entity and part of a global network that promotes French language and Francophone culture. The institution is one of the largest Alliance Française branches in Africa and remains the only accredited center in Kenya for international French language certification and certified translation services. Each year, thousands of students pass through its doors to learn French, and it hosts a vibrant program of artistic and cultural events that reflect and celebrate diversity.
Alliance Française Nairobi is committed to high standards of education, administration, and financial stewardship. To support this mission, the organization seeks an experienced, results-driven, and ethical individual to take on the role of Accountant.
Overview of the Role
The Accountant will play a key role in supporting day-to-day financial operations and ensuring adherence to accounting standards and internal controls. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in financial management, reconciliation, and reporting, with the capability to contribute to the effective running of the Finance Department. The Accountant will also act as a deputy to the Head of Department and provide financial oversight for multiple program areas including language courses, translation services, and cultural events.
Key Responsibilities
Invoicing and Collections
- Preparation of invoices and debit notes as required by internal departments.
- Scheduling payments and ensuring timely verification and disbursement to suppliers and service providers.
- Regular dispatch of collection schedules and debtors’ statements to departments such as Classes, Cultural Affairs, and Translation/Interpretation.
Banking and Reconciliation
- Preparation of monthly bank reconciliations for all local and international accounts.
- Daily bank deposit reconciliation against receipts and validation of M-Pesa transactions.
- Transfer of daily M-Pesa receipts to designated student bank accounts.
- Receipting of client payments and verification of mobile money entries in the system.
Internal Financial Coordination
- Continuous engagement with the Courses Department for daily data reconciliations and accurate postings using the accounting system (SAGE ACCPAC).
- Preparation and management of monthly reports on private class hours covered and related payments.
- Regular reconciliation of daily registration receipts and preparation of variance reports to compare budget against actuals.
Credit Card and Cash Management
- Overseeing institutional credit card transactions including ensuring proper documentation, monthly reconciliations, and timely balance settlements.
- Enforcing adherence to internal spending policies and managing both cash sales and expenditures for the Nairobi and Eldoret branches.
Management of Program-Specific Accounts
- Monitoring and reconciliation of various accounts including Campus France, Sciences Po, and EUNIC, among others.
- Coordination with service providers for quotations and ad hoc supply requisitions such as office stationery and cleaning materials.
Audit and Financial Reporting
- Supporting annual audit processes by preparing schedules and facilitating access to records.
- Assisting in drafting financial statements and disclosures in line with international accounting standards and local regulations.
- Coordinating with external auditors, tax authorities, and regulators to ensure full compliance.
Internal Controls and Risk Management
- Maintaining and improving internal control systems, including asset management protocols.
- Identifying and mitigating financial risks such as exchange rate fluctuations, interest rate risks, and general market risks.
- Supporting operational continuity by liaising with banks to address any financial transactional concerns.
Leadership and Departmental Support
- Performing any other financial duties as assigned by the Head of Department.
- Deputizing the Head of Department in their absence or upon delegation.
Candidate Requirements
Technical Knowledge and Professional Skills
- In-depth understanding of financial accounting principles, taxation rules, and regulatory frameworks relevant to Kenya and the non-profit sector.
- Demonstrated analytical skills with an ability to interpret complex financial data, identify insights, and support decision-making.
- Experience in working with ERP systems such as Sage, SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft Dynamics, with a strong preference for SAGE ACCPAC.
- Sound understanding of financial modelling and reporting tools.
Work Ethics and Interpersonal Abilities
- Commitment to ethical conduct, transparency, and professional integrity.
- Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
- Strong communication skills to convey financial concepts to both finance and non-finance staff.
Educational Background
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance.
- Professional certification such as CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is mandatory.
- Membership in ICPAK (Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya) is required.
- Proficiency in the French language at B1 level is preferred, given the institution’s linguistic orientation.
Why Work with Alliance Française Nairobi
Working at Alliance Française offers more than just a job — it provides an opportunity to be part of an institution that fosters cultural appreciation, intellectual exchange, and social impact. As part of a diverse and dynamic team, the Accountant will contribute directly to enhancing financial efficiency and supporting the mission of French language promotion and cultural engagement across Kenya.
Employees of Alliance Française Nairobi enjoy a collaborative and respectful workplace where professionalism, creativity, and cultural inclusivity are highly valued. With strong internal governance structures and a commitment to professional development, the institution is ideal for individuals looking to grow their careers in a structured yet creative environment.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their applications no later than 16th July 2025.
Click here to Apply
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Alliance Française Nairobi is an equal opportunity employer and encourages qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply.
Deadline: 16th July 2025
