Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Job Description and Duties

The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is responsible for accurate financial reporting, statutory compliance and audit readiness. This role is suitable for a qualified CPA with strong technical accounting knowledge, proven analytical ability and effective stakeholder communication skills.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Job Profile

The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) provides oversight of accounting activities to ensure the integrity of financial information, compliance with applicable accounting standards and timely completion of reporting cycles. The role supports senior management with financial insight, risk mitigation and decision support.

The CPA operates within the finance function and collaborates with operational teams, internal audit and external advisors to maintain robust controls and deliver reliable management information.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Job Description

The CPA is expected to manage month end and year end close processes, prepare statutory and management financial statements, and ensure that accounting treatments comply with relevant standards and regulations. The role requires preparing schedules and reconciliations, analysing variances and producing commentary to explain financial performance.

In addition to reporting duties, the CPA will coordinate and support internal and external audits, maintain and test internal controls, and implement improvements to accounting policies and procedures. Effective communication of financial information to non-financial stakeholders and the ability to prioritise multiple deadlines are essential.

The position also involves advising on tax compliance matters, contributing to budgeting and forecasting activities, and mentoring junior accounting staff to build team capability and ensure consistent application of accounting practices.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA): Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate monthly, quarterly and annual financial statements in accordance with applicable accounting standards.
• Lead month end and year end close processes and deliver financial reporting on schedule.
• Reconcile general ledger accounts and prepare detailed account analyses and schedules.
• Manage statutory reporting and ensure compliance with tax and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate and support external audits and respond to auditor queries.
• Maintain, test and improve internal controls and accounting policies.
• Perform variance analysis and provide explanatory reports to management.
• Prepare cash flow analysis and assist with treasury and working capital management.
• Contribute to budgeting, forecasting and long range financial planning activities.
• Review and apply accounting treatments for complex transactions and ensure appropriate disclosures.
• Provide technical accounting guidance and ensure consistent application of standards across the organisation.
• Support tax filings and ensure timely submission of statutory documents.
• Identify process improvements to increase efficiency and strengthen controls.
• Coach and review the work of junior accounting staff to maintain quality and compliance.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA): Requirements and Qualifications

• Qualified CPA designation or equivalent professional accounting qualification.
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance or a related discipline.
• Minimum of three years post-qualification experience in public accounting or corporate finance.
• Strong knowledge of relevant accounting standards such as IFRS or local equivalents.
• Demonstrable experience of financial reporting, month end close and statutory compliance.
• Experience supporting external audits and implementing internal controls.
• High level of numerical accuracy and advanced analytical skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for stakeholder reporting.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing deadlines.
• Professional integrity and adherence to ethical and regulatory requirements.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and staying current with accounting standards.