Accounting Assistant

Summary

The Accounting Assistant will be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records and processing transactions pertaining to bookkeeping and accounts receivable at CGIAR's Accounting Services unit in Montpellier, France. The position requires a Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field, with proven starter level experience in accounts receivable, general accounting, or a similar role.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field
• Proven starter level experience in accounts receivable, general accounting, or a similar role within a reputable organization
• Experience in bank reconciliations and VAT compliance
• Experience in account reconciliations and adjusting journals
• Mid to advanced user of Unit 4 ERP or other Accounting ERP system

Responsibilities

• Oversee, monitor and verify System Organization shared services and hosting activities invoicing and other CGIAR inter-center accounts receivables transactions
• Follow up on outstanding receivables and reconcile discrepancies, maintain an up-to-date cash book for efficient bank reconciliations
• Record and update transactions in relevant systems and databases and update the General Ledger (GL) with receipts from clients in a timely manner
• Prepare monthly accruals, prepayments, and payroll costs journals
• Review, verify and process VAT compliance processes
• Prepare bank and other accounts reconciliations and Reclassify expenses according to established procedures
• Propose improvements to accounting guidelines, systems, and processes for enhanced operational efficiency and internal controls
• Respond to queries related to accounts receivable status promptly and professionally
• Escalate accounts receivable issues to the supervisor for appropriate action
• Foster collaborative teamwork and communication within the Unit and across the CGIAR System
• Collaborate with Digital and Data teams to resolve system breakdowns and implement improvements in accounts receivable management
• Prepare monthly revenue recognition journals and management accounts under the Accounting Officer’s oversight
• Provide data, information and reports, including for preparation of financial management reports and year-end processes, for internal and external audits related to accounts receivable
• Identify, communicate, and manage risks associated with accounting activities in alignment with organizational objectives
• Perform any other tasks as assigned by supervisor

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional certifications such as CA, ACCA, CPA, or equivalent is preferred
• Familiarity with other ERP systems (e.g. SAP, Oracle, MS Dynamics) used for financial transactions and reporting is an advantage
• Previous experience in an international organization or multicultural environment is an advantage

Benefits

The CGIAR System Organization offers competitive compensation with favorable taxation arrangements in France and, subject to eligibility, comprehensive employee benefits comprising extensive insurance coverage, a retirement plan, an education grant, and relocation support at the start of the appointment and upon conclusion of appointment for staff members and eligible dependents