The National Research Fund (NRF), a premier government institution mandated to mobilize, allocate and manage financial resources for scientific research and innovations in Kenya, is pleased to announce a key job vacancy within its Finance Division. This opportunity offers a highly rewarding professional environment for individuals committed to excellence in public finance management and eager to contribute to the advancement of research and development in Kenya.
As part of its mission to strengthen its internal capacity and maintain sound financial stewardship, the NRF invites qualified, competent, and highly motivated candidates to apply for the position of Principal Accountant. This senior-level post is ideal for experienced finance professionals looking to take the next step in their public service careers.
Position: Principal Accountant
Reference Number: NRF/04/2025
Number of Vacancies: One (1)
Job Group: NRF 5
Terms of Service: Permanent and Pensionable
Remuneration Package:
- Basic Salary Scale:
- KShs. 96,813 x 3,873 – 100,686 x 4,027 – 104,713 x 4,712 – 109,425 x 4,924 – 114,349 x 5,146 – 119,495 x 5,377 – 124,872 x 5,427 – 130,299
- House Allowance: KShs. 35,000
- Commuter Allowance: KShs. 8,000
This is a competitively compensated position with significant responsibilities and growth opportunities. The appointed candidate will join a dynamic team working to ensure the efficient use of public funds in support of Kenya’s research ecosystem.
Job Purpose
The Principal Accountant will be responsible for planning, directing, coordinating, and supervising all accounting functions within the organization. The role entails ensuring strict adherence to financial policies, regulations, and government guidelines, as well as delivering timely and accurate financial reports to support the organization’s operations and accountability obligations.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be expected to:
- Coordinate Implementation of Accounting Policies and Strategies
- Provide leadership in formulating and implementing sound financial and accounting procedures in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.
- Regularly review financial strategies to ensure they align with NRF’s objectives and government directives.
- Ensure Timely Payment of Expenditures
- Oversee payment processing and ensure all organizational expenditures are managed in a timely and accurate manner.
- Maintain oversight of fund disbursements while ensuring adherence to approved budgets.
- Verify Internal and External Audit Queries
- Lead the preparation and review of audit responses.
- Coordinate internal and external audits and ensure implementation of recommendations.
- Ensure Safe Custody of Financial Records and Assets
- Guarantee the security and confidentiality of cash, cheques, financial records, and all accountable documents.
- Implement proper internal controls to minimize risks related to fraud or financial loss.
- Evaluate and Scrutinize Expenditure Proposals
- Analyze requests for expenditure to ensure they align with strategic objectives and financial plans.
- Verify that funds requested meet policy and procedural compliance before approval.
- Interpret and Implement Financial Regulations
- Provide expert interpretation and consistent application of financial laws, circulars, and regulations issued by the National Treasury and other relevant authorities.
- Verify Payment Vouchers and Committal Documents
- Scrutinize financial documents and ensure compliance with established rules and procedures prior to payment approval.
- Provide Quality and Timely Accounting Services
- Ensure that financial services provided to various departments meet standards for accuracy, responsiveness, and timeliness.
- Coordinate Preparation of Financial Reports
- Supervise the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial and management reports.
- Ensure that reports meet statutory requirements and are submitted within the required timelines.
- Maintain Inventory of Bank Accounts and Signatories
- Maintain an up-to-date inventory of all bank accounts held by NRF and the corresponding signatory mandates.
- Monitor changes and ensure accuracy of banking records.
- Ensure Effective Tax Handling
- Handle all taxation matters relating to the organization, including tax deductions, filings, remittances, and compliance.
- Liaise with the Kenya Revenue Authority and other relevant bodies on taxation matters.
- Authorize Payments and Identify Suitable Signatories
- Authorize payments within the delegated financial authority and recommend appropriate cheque signatories.
- Uphold segregation of duties and ensure compliance with financial controls.
Minimum Requirements
To be considered for appointment to this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A cumulative minimum of nine (9) years of relevant work experience, with at least three (3) years served at the level of Senior Accountant or a comparable role in a recognized institution.
- Bachelor’s degree in Commerce (Accounting or Finance Option), Business Management/Administration (Accounting or Finance Option), or any other equivalent and relevant qualification from a recognized university.
- Must possess CPA (K) or equivalent qualification.
- Must be a registered member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) or another recognized professional accounting body.
- Successful completion of a Management Course of not less than four (4) weeks from a recognized institution.
- Proficiency in computer applications, particularly accounting and financial software.
- Proven merit and ability as demonstrated in performance and results.
Work Environment and Organizational Culture
The National Research Fund offers a professional and empowering work environment where dedication, innovation, and accountability are highly valued. The Fund upholds principles of good governance, inclusivity, and gender equality. Teamwork, collaboration, and continuous improvement are integral to NRF’s operational ethos.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates who meet the stated criteria are required to submit:
- A completed Application for Employment Form
- A cover letter detailing suitability for the position
- A current and detailed curriculum vitae (CV)
- A copy of the National ID or Passport
- Copies of academic and professional certificates and other testimonials
Applications can be submitted through either of the following methods:
By Email:
Send your application to: [email protected]
Ensure that the subject line clearly states the reference number and position applied for, e.g., “NRF/04/2025 – Principal Accountant”
OR
By Hand Delivery:
Submit hard copies of your application documents in a sealed envelope clearly marked Ref No: NRF/04/2025 – Principal Accountant to the address below:
Chief Executive Officer
National Research Fund
NACOSTI Plaza, 3rd Floor, Upper Kabete
P.O. Box 26036 – 00100
NAIROBI
Deadline for Application: Monday, 30th June, 2025
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Any form of canvassing will result in automatic disqualification. The National Research Fund remains committed to fair and open competition in its hiring process.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The National Research Fund is an equal opportunity employer. It is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, persons with disabilities, marginalized groups, and regional balance. All qualified persons, regardless of age, race, religion, sex, or nationality, are encouraged to apply.
Take this opportunity to advance your career in public service finance by contributing to the national research agenda.
