The Assistant Accountant – Payables is responsible for supporting the effective management and administration of the University’s accounts payable function.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Accounting
- Closing Date: 2026-09-17
Key Responsibilities
- Supervision of the Group payments function.
- Preparing daily cash reports for the Bursar and SBU Finance Managers;
- Checking on completeness of receipts and arithmetic calculations on accounting forms;
- Preparing supplier reconciliations reports, including supplier control reconciliations
- Processing TT payments
- Liaising with banks for payment of suppliers;
- Creditors Recoveries and processing staff clearances;
- Preparing audit schedules and attending to audit queries;
- Acting as the custodian of University security items;
- Validating and updating accounts payables batches;
- Verifying and checking of expenditure on accounting forms before posting;
- Posting monthly journals and preparing month-end schedules;
- Attending to stakeholder inquiries;
- Ensuring all other creditors have contracts and they are being adhered to;
- Any other duties as may be assigned from time to time.
Requirements
- A Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting degree or its equivalent;
- Knowledge of Pastel would be a distinct advantage;
- A thorough understanding of the Shared Services Model in group operations
- An excellent understanding of the payables function in group entities.
- Applicants must have at least three (3) years hands on experience in an accounting environment
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: jobs.buse.ac.zw
About the Company
A university is an institution of tertiary education and research which awards academic degrees in several academic disciplines. University is derived from the Latin phrase universitas magistrorum et scholarium, which roughly means "community of teachers and scholars". Universities typically offer both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Website: https://www.uz.ac.zw/
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for an Assistant Accountant – Payables role at a university in Zimbabwe?
Most universities require a degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Studies, plus at least part completion of a professional qualification such as ACCA, CIMA, or CIS. Practical knowledge of accounting software like Pastel or SAP and strong Excel skills are usually essential.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for this role?
You will mainly process supplier invoices, prepare payment runs, reconcile creditor statements, and respond to supplier queries. The role also involves maintaining accurate payables records and assisting with month-end accruals and reports.
What career progression can I realistically expect from this position in Zimbabwe?
With experience and completion of a professional qualification, you can progress to Accountant, Senior Accountant, or Finance Manager roles within the university or other organisations. Some professionals also move into specialised areas like treasury, management accounting, or financial reporting.
What benefits are typically offered for accounting roles at Zimbabwean universities?
Benefits often include medical aid, pension or NSSA contributions, annual leave, and sometimes study assistance for professional exams. The exact package varies by institution and employment contract type.
What do employers in Zimbabwe look for when hiring an Assistant Accountant – Payables?
Employers value accuracy, integrity, and the ability to work under pressure, especially during month-end and audit periods. Familiarity with local tax requirements such as VAT and withholding tax on supplier payments is also highly regarded.
How should I apply for this role and what should I include in my application?
Submit a tailored CV and cover letter through the university's official recruitment portal or email address stated in the advert. Highlight your accounting qualifications, payables experience, software skills, and any professional body registration or progress.