Job Description
The Senior Accountant – Accounts Payable (Internal/External) will be responsible for executing and controlling the full spectrum of accounts payable activities within the Financial Controlling – ET department. This role ensures accurate, complete, and timely processing of supplier invoices, reconciliations, and payments while adhering to Safaricom policies, Ethiopian tax regulations, and International Accounting Standards. The incumbent will also drive continuous improvement of internal controls and serve as a key liaison with internal stakeholders, external auditors, and tax authorities.
Responsibilities
At Safaricom Ethiopia, we are a purpose-led technology company dedicated to transforming lives through digital connectivity and inclusive financial services. In less than five years, we have grown to serve over 15 million 90 days active customers, with our network now reaching 60% of Ethiopia’s population; a testament to our bold vision and trusted partnerships.
Guided by our core values of Customer Obsession, Innovation, Integrity, and Get It Done Together, we are building a dynamic, inclusive, and empowering workplace. We believe our greatest strength lies in our people. That is why, for three consecutive years, we have proudly earned the Top Employer Award. In addition, we have received the African Top Employer recognition for the first time, reflecting our unwavering commitment to fostering a supportive, innovative, and inclusive work environment.
Join Safaricom Ethiopia and be part of a team shaping the digital future of Ethiopia. Here, your work has meaning, your voice matters, and your growth is our priority. Together, we are transforming lives for a digital future.
Role purpose:
The Senior Accountant – Accounts Payable is responsible for executing and controlling end-to-end accounts payable processes to ensure accurate, complete, and timely processing of supplier invoices, reconciliations, and payments. The role supports compliance with Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia PLC policies, local tax regulations, and International Accounting Standards, while ensuring strong internal controls and effective stakeholder engagement.
Key accountabilities and decision ownership
:
Process supplier invoices accurately and within agreed SLAs, ensuring completeness and correctness.
Ensure nil double payment of invoices and nil invoices processed without an approved PO, except where policy allows.
Verify and match all required documents prior to payment processing, including:
LPO
Supplier invoice
Goods Received Note / Engineer’s certificate / Service delivery confirmation
Contract and Quality Control reports (where applicable).
Reconcile supplier statements and accounts payable ledger, promptly resolving reconciling items.
Support timely and accurate payment to suppliers in line with contractual payment terms.
Key performance indicator:
Accurate, timely, and error-free processing of invoices and payments.
Compliance with AP SLAs and internal control requirements.
Timely completion of supplier reconciliations with minimal reconciling items.
Quality and timeliness of reporting and audit schedules.
Reduction in supplier queries and payment escalations.
Core competencies, knowledge and experience:
Strong knowledge of financial accounting principles and IFRS.
Good understanding of local tax regulations and their application to AP transactions.
Strong analytical and numerical skills with high attention to detail.
Experience working with ERP/accounting systems (e.g. Oracle, SAP, Hyperion, SUN, Sage).
Good communication and stakeholder management skills.
Ability to identify risks and understand accounting implications.
Self-driven, proactive, and able to work with minimal supervision.
Qualifications
Must have technical / professional qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related discipline from a recognized university.
Strong working knowledge of accounts payable processes and financial accounting principles
Practical experience using ERP/accounting systems (e.g. Oracle, SAP, SUN, Sage, Hyperion).
Good understanding of IFRS and basic local tax requirements related to supplier payments.
Desired
Professional accounting qualification (CPA / ACCA / CIMA / ACA) or progress toward certification.
Experience supporting internal and external audits.
Exposure to shared services or high-volume transaction environments.
Knowledge of internal control frameworks and process improvement practices