Job Summary


Our client in the FMCG industry is looking for a skilled Senior Tax Accountant. The Senior Tax Accountant is responsible for overseeing the company’s tax compliance and strategic tax planning in a high-volume FMCG environment. This includes managing direct and indirect tax obligations, leading interactions with tax authorities, and working cross-functionally to align tax with business operations. The role also involves mentoring junior team members, implementing tax process improvements, and ensuring tax efficiency across the supply chain, distribution, and procurement functions.


Key Responsibilities

Tax Compliance & Reporting


Lead the preparation, review, and filing of all statutory tax returns including VAT, WHT, PAYE, AHL, SHIF, NSSF, NITA, and Excise Duty.
Ensure all filings are accurate, complete, and submitted within required timelines in compliance with KRA regulations.
Oversee tax accounting entries in the ERP and ensure GL accuracy for all tax-related accounts.


Strategic Tax Planning & Risk Management


 Advise the business on tax-efficient structuring of commercial transactions, supply chain, and new product launches.
Monitor changes in tax laws and assess their business impact; ensure timely implementation of necessary changes.
Identify and implement legal tax-saving opportunities including deductions, incentives, and exemptions.


Audit & Relationship Management


Act as the primary liaison with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), handling audits, queries, and tax disputes.
Prepare all required documentation and lead responses during tax audits or investigations.
Build strong relationships with local tax consultants, external auditors, and regulatory authorities.


Leadership & Collaboration


Supervise and mentor junior tax/accounting staff on best practices and compliance standards.
Conduct tax training and awareness sessions for internal stakeholders including sales, procurement, and logistics.
Collaborate with finance, legal, procurement, and commercial teams to ensure tax is integrated into business processes.


Process & Technology


Lead tax automation and digitalization efforts in collaboration with IT and finance systems teams.
Drive continuous improvement in tax reporting and internal controls.
Maintain robust documentation and processes to support future audits and tax planning.


Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)


 Timeliness and accuracy of tax filings
 Amount of tax penalties avoided or recovered
 Tax savings from planning initiatives
 Audit issue resolution time
 Staff development and tax awareness sessions conducted


Requirements

Qualifications


Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics or related field.
CPA-K, ACCA or equivalent full qualification.
Minimum 5 years of experience in tax, with at least 3 years in a senior or supervisory role .
Experience working in FMCG, manufacturing, or similar high-compliance sectors is a strong advantage.
 In-depth knowledge of Kenyan tax laws (Income Tax, VAT Act, Excise Duty, PAYE, Customs).
Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g. SAP, Oracle, Sage).
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Strong leadership and ability to influence across departments.
Up-to-date knowledge of KRA systems (iTax, Simba) and electronic invoicing requirements.