Stocks Accountant

We are looking for a detail-oriented and analytical Stocks Accountant to safeguard the accuracy, integrity and proper valuation of the Company's inventory. The role will be responsible for stock reconciliations, inventory valuation, variance analysis, cost accounting and reporting across raw materials, packaging, work-in-progress and finished goods.

The successful candidate will work closely with Finance, Stores, Production and Supply Chain teams to ensure accurate stock records and reliable inventory information for financial and operational decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

Stock & Inventory Accounting

• Maintain accurate stock records for raw materials, packaging, work-in-progress and finished goods.
• Ensure stock is properly valued in line with Company policies and applicable IFRS requirements.
• Post stock-related accounting entries, including receipts, issues, transfers, write-offs and provisions.
• Reconcile inventory records with the general ledger on an ongoing basis.
• Maintain accurate perpetual inventory records across warehouse and depot locations.

Stock Reconciliation & Variance Control

• Reconcile Stores/Warehouse records with the general ledger on a monthly basis.
• Investigate and resolve stock variances, shortages, excesses and damages.
• Coordinate and participate in cycle counts and physical stock takes.
• Work with the Stores Manager to identify the causes of stock discrepancies and implement corrective actions.
• Monitor stock ageing and identify slow-moving or obsolete inventory.
• Recommend appropriate provisions or write-offs for management approval.

Cost Accounting & Margin Support

• Support the maintenance of standard costs and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Analyze production variances, including material usage, yield and price variances.
• Prepare COGS and gross margin analysis by product line or SKU.
• Provide inventory and costing information to support pricing and profitability decisions.
• Support annual stock count planning and coordination, including external auditor attendance.

Controls & Compliance

• Monitor internal controls over stock receipt, storage, issuance and disposal.
• Help minimize stock losses, theft, damage and accounting errors.
• Ensure appropriate segregation of duties between Stores/Warehouse and stock accounting functions.
• Support external audits by preparing stock schedules, reconciliations and supporting documentation.
• Ensure compliance with Company policies and applicable requirements relating to inventory valuation and write-offs.

Reporting & Business Support

• Prepare monthly stock reports covering stock value, location, ageing and variances.
• Provide accurate inventory information to the Senior Accountant or Finance Manager.
• Work closely with Production, Supply Chain and Stores to improve stock accuracy and planning.
• Support budgeting and forecasting with accurate inventory and COGS information.
• Provide inventory analysis and reports to support management decision-making.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Economics or a related field.
• CPA Part II/III minimum, with active progression towards CPA(K), ACCA or an equivalent professional qualification.
• Full CPA(K)/ACCA qualification is an added advantage.
• Membership in good standing with ICPAK is desirable.

Experience & Skills

• Minimum 3 years' accounting experience with significant exposure to stock or inventory accounting.
• Experience in FMCG or manufacturing is strongly preferred.
• Good understanding of standard costing, Bills of Materials and production variance analysis.
• Proficiency in ERP and inventory management systems.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Strong reconciliation, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• High level of integrity and strong understanding of internal controls.
• Ability to work closely with Stores, Production and Supply Chain teams.
• Good communication and reporting skills.

Desirable Experience

• Previous experience in FMCG or manufacturing stock/inventory accounting.
• Experience coordinating cycle counts and full physical stock takes.
• Experience working with external auditors during stock counts.
• Knowledge of Kenyan statutory and tax requirements relating to inventory valuation and write-offs.