Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Redcliff
- Category: Finance
- Closing Date: 2026-09-03
Key Responsibilities
- Supervising staff and ensuring that all financial records are accurate and compliant with International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) and regulations.
- Managing day to day accounting operations inter alia accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger and tax reporting.
- Preparing financial statements in a timely and accurate manner.
- Maintaining and enforcing internal controls to safeguard Council assets and ensure compliance with financial regulations.
- Coordinating and leading audits, liaising with external auditors and addressing audit findings.
- Preparation and monitoring of annual budget and budget performance.
- Responsible for forecasting, financial planning, analysing performance and providing recommendations for cost control and efficiency improvements.
- Supervising, training and mentoring accounting staff, monitoring team performance and ensuring professional development.
- Managing tax compliance, including filing returns and liaison with ZIMRA.
- Providing strategic financial insights to support management decision making and long term planning.
- Provide and Implement debt collection strategies to enhance revenue collection.
- To perform any other duties as assigned by the Director of Finance.
Requirements
- An Accounting Degree or Finance Degree from a recognised University.
- A Post Graduate Degree will also be an added advantage
- At least three (3) years of post-qualification experience at Middle Management Level.
- A clean record of service and no criminal record.
- A citizen of Zimbabwe.
- Possession of a minimum clean Class 4 driver’s license.
- A registered Public Accountant with Public Auditors and Accountants Board (PAAB)
Salary
competitive salary and benefits
How to Apply
Job Code: NC D/671402
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and professional certifications are typically required for the Chief Accountant (Grade 14) role in a Zimbabwean municipality?
Applicants usually need a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field from a Zimbabwean university or equivalent accredited institution. Membership with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Zimbabwe (ICAZ) or the Association of Certified Accountants (Zimbabwe) (ACAZ) is strongly preferred, and many municipalities require at least five years of progressive public sector finance experience.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Chief Accountant in a Zimbabwean municipality like Redcliff?
The role involves overseeing financial reporting, budget preparation and monitoring, internal controls, statutory compliance (including PFM Act and Local Authorities Act), and supervising junior accounting staff. You’ll also liaise regularly with the Municipal Finance Committee, audit institutions like the Auditor General’s Office, and central government departments such as the Ministry of Local Government.
How does workplace culture and professional expectations differ for accountants in Zimbabwean local authorities compared to private-sector firms?
Municipal finance roles emphasize procedural adherence, transparency, and accountability due to strict public financial management laws and frequent external audits. Decision-making tends to be hierarchical and documentation-heavy, with strong emphasis on ethical conduct, political neutrality, and service delivery alignment — traits actively assessed during interviews and performance reviews.
What realistic career progression paths exist after serving as Chief Accountant (Grade 14) in a Zimbabwean municipality?
Successful incumbents may progress to Director of Finance (Grade 15) within the same or larger municipality, or transition to senior finance roles in provincial or national government structures. Some pursue secondments to institutions like the Local Government Finance Agency (LGFA) or move into advisory positions with development partners, though advancement often depends on continued professional development and demonstrated leadership in reform initiatives.
What standard benefits — such as leave, medical aid, pension, and housing allowances — can a Chief Accountant expect in a Zimbabwean municipality?
Employees are covered under the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) pension scheme and entitled to 30 days’ annual leave, sick leave, and maternity/paternity leave per the Labour Act. Medical aid is typically provided through a municipal group scheme (e.g., Zimnat or NEL), and housing allowances or accommodation may be offered depending on municipal policy and availability, but are not guaranteed across all councils.