JOSEPH VAITA
Nairobi
Summary
Dynamic Senior Accountant with extensive experience at Bowmans Coulson Harney LLP, excelling in financial reporting and tax compliance. Proven track record in streamlining processes and enhancing accuracy, while fostering team collaboration and training. Adept in managing accounts payable and mitigating financial risks, ensuring timely vendor payments and regulatory adherence. Experienced professional with several years of experience providing administrative, clerical and project support to accounting departments. Enterprising, cost-driven and well-organized with good project management skills. Sophisticated understanding of accounting systems and procedures. Hardworking senior accountant proficient in providing cost-effective and accurate accounting oversight in industry. Exceptionally talented at preparing financial statements, reconciling transactions and assisting with internal and external audits.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Accountant
Bowmans Coulson Harney LLP
02.2015 - Current
- Managed the complete accounts payable function, including invoice processing, matching supporting documents, and booking transactions on the 3E system according to Bowman’s policies, ensuring adherence to firm policies and timely payment of local and foreign vendors.
- Ensured 100% compliance with monthly tax filings and payments (PAYE, VAT, NHIF, NSSF, Withholding Tax) and accurately processed client stamp duty payments, effectively mitigating regulatory risks.
- Proactively identified and resolved errors or discrepancies in financial documentation prior to payment processing, enhancing accuracy and preventing financial losses.
- Streamlined month-end financial reporting processes and journal adjustments for accrual accounting compliance.
- Actively participated in the preparation of the firm's annual budget, monitored adherence, and provided insightful explanations for variances, contributing to sound fiscal management.
- Developed and delivered training programs for new accounting staff on firm policies and industry statutory regulations, fostering team proficiency and ensuring compliance within the legal industry.
- Managed the follow-up and recovery of staff cash advances through payroll, maintaining a disciplined financial environment.
Group Accountant
Governor’s Camp-Musiara Ltd
10.2007 - 02.2015
- Directed comprehensive monthly tax computation and filing for both Kenyan and Rwandan operations (VAT, Withholding Tax, PAYE), ensuring multi-jurisdictional compliance and adherence to statutory deadlines.
- Maintained all intercompany transaction reconciliations, ensuring financial accuracy and transparency across group entities.
- Served as the primary liaison with auditors, facilitating efficient audit processes and ensuring timely resolution of inquiries.
- Oversaw accounts payable, ensuring timely posting of supplier invoices and accurate reconciliations to optimize cash flow and maintain financial integrity.
- Prepared detailed cash flow statements to support strategic financial planning and operational decision-making for the subsidiary company.
- Managed payroll preparation for the subsidiary company.
Auditor Assistant
Upin Vasani and Co. (CPA)
01.2007 - 09.2007
- Implemented effective accounting systems at client premises.
- Executed external audits for major clients, including Super Foam Limited and Global Flight International.
Auditor Trainee
Kig’ang’i Kamau and Co. (CPA)
01.2006 - 12.2006
- Performed tax computations (Corporate taxes, VAT, and individual taxes) and drafted financial statements.
- Executed external audits and ensured an up-to-date filing system for client documentation.
Education
Bachelor of Business Management - Finance and Banking
Moi University
01.2014
Certified Public Accountant (CPA-K) -
Visions Institute of Professionals
01.2005
Skills
- Invoice processing and accounts payable
- Financial statement preparation
- Payroll processing and administration
- Statutory payments management
- Intercompany transaction reconciliation
- Bank reconciliation
- Financial risk mitigation
- Stakeholder relationship management
- Analytical and numerical skills
- Budget preparation and cash flow management
- Problem solving and project management
- Microsoft Office Suite proficiency
- Tax compliance and financial reporting
- Auditing processes and regulatory compliance
- Team training
References
- Miss. Jackline Migwi, Chief Accountant, Hamilton Harrison & Mathews, 0723-238 235, jackline.migwi@gmail.com
- Mr. Thomas K. Karuri, Internal Auditor, MHASIBU Sacco Society Ltd, P.O. Box 31295, Nairobi, Nairobi, 00600, Kenya, 0723-913349
- Eric Jones Murithi, Chief Accountant, Bowmans Coulson Harney, P.O. Box 10643, Nairobi, Nairobi, 00100, Kenya, eric.jones@bowmanslaw.com, +254-720700047
Additional Information
Time management and temperament training by Summit Training., Communication Skills training by Lantern training., Completed Man Enough Programme 2017 at Citam Woodley., Leadership Development Programme 2018 at Citam Woodley., Agility Learning Programmes., Traveling, Walking, Praying
Timeline
Senior Accountant
Bowmans Coulson Harney LLP
02.2015 - Current
Group Accountant
Governor’s Camp-Musiara Ltd
10.2007 - 02.2015
Auditor Assistant
Upin Vasani and Co. (CPA)
01.2007 - 09.2007
Auditor Trainee
Kig’ang’i Kamau and Co. (CPA)
01.2006 - 12.2006
Bachelor of Business Management - Finance and Banking
Moi University
Certified Public Accountant (CPA-K) -
Visions Institute of Professionals