Accounts Payable Associate

Company Description

ABOUT ALU

ALU provides higher education for a higher purpose. Our students declare missions, not majors.
They develop the real-world skills to take on the world’s most pressing challenges. And they take ownership of their learning from day one through our peer and student-led approach – because ALU believes in the power and agency of young people to start shaping the future right now.
Together with a world-class faculty and staff, our students are igniting a ripple of positive impact across Africa and the world.

We are dedicated to fostering an open yet secure environment, balancing the safety of students, staff, and visitors with respect for individual rights, and safeguarding responsibilities.

HOW WE WORK

As a high-growth start-up, the ALU Team works in starkly different ways to traditional academic bureaucracies. We approach education from first principles, empower individuals to design, test, and implement creative new ideas, and work closely together to craft transformative learning experiences. We are deeply passionate about our students and excited by the challenge of building something entirely new.

The African Leadership University is committed to ensuring the safety and Well-being of all students under our care. As part of this commitment , we have a comprehensive safeguarding policy in place , which outlines our Zero-tolerance approach to any violation of safeguarding.

Job Description

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Accounts Payable Associate plays a vital role in the finance team, ensuring the smooth and efficient management of vendor payments, financial records, and compliance with internal controls. This position is responsible for processing supplier invoices, reconciling accounts, preparing tax returns, and supporting financial reporting activities. The ideal candidate will have a keen eye for detail, a strong grasp of accounting principles, and the ability to work collaboratively across departments.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Invoice Processing and Payments

• Ensure all supplier invoices received are processed according to set procedures.
• Adhere to supplier payment terms by preparing bi-monthly payment runs.
• Execute monthly payment runs for all STC expenses due after review with the People Ops team.
• Allocate approved payments from the bank to vendor accounts on accounting software.
• Dispatch remittance advice/swift confirmations to suppliers promptly as payment confirmation.

Account Reconciliation and Vendor Management

• Reconcile supplier statements monthly, resolve discrepancies, and maintain an up-to-date vendor database.
• Regularly review open purchase orders and collaborate with the procurement team to clear them.
• Prepare and post entries to various nominal ledgers for accounts payables.

Financial Reporting and Compliance

• Actively review spend reports on the income statement and ensure there are no variances in the general ledger.
• Prepare monthly withholding tax return files and ensure compliance.
• Prepare yearly withholding tax returns and distribute certificates to vendors.
• Maintain month-end schedules and account for monthly accruals, Fixed Asset Register, and prepayment releases.
• Prepare accrual and prepayment schedules on a monthly basis.
• Run allocation schedules for expenses in line with internal accounting rules.

Ad Hoc Support

•  Assist finance with ad hoc projects.
• Perform other duties as reasonably assigned by the team manager.

Ensure the safety and well-being of all young persons and vulnerable adults with whom we deal,  by adhering to ALU’s comprehensive safeguarding policy, maintaining a zero-tolerance approach to any violations of safeguarding standards. 

Qualifications

REQUIREMENTS 

Required Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• CPA, ACCA, or other relevant professional certification is an added advantage.
• 4+ years of experience in accounts payable, finance, or accounting.
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles and financial regulations.
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP,, NetSuite or similar ERP systems).
• High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and strong analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Required Competencies

• Strong subject matter expertise:
• Advanced excel, ERP systems
• Stakeholder Management & Communication
• Adaptability and flexibility in a dynamic environment
• Cultural Sensitivity and ability to work in a diverse environment.
• Strong analytical skills