The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) seeks to recruit an Accounts Assistant to manage VAT exemption processes end-to-end, ensure timely application, tracking, and reconciliation of VAT transactions, maintain accurate records and reporting, and safeguard the organization’s tax exemption benefits by minimizing financial risk and ensuring compliance.

ILRI is an international organisation working for better lives and better planet through livestock. ILRI’s mission emphasises the interconnections between people, animals, and the environment, aiming to improve the lives of more than 300 million people in low- and middle-income countries through livestock science that supports equitable and resilient livestock systems, ultimately contributing to food systems transformation with climate and environmental benefits. This mission is delivered through two core strategic objectives: co-designing and deploying sustainable, science-based livestock solutions, and leveraging science to inform and influence policy and investment decisions.

ILRI is a member of the CGIAR, a global research alliance that works to transform food, land and water systems in a climate crisis and is the only CGIAR centre dedicated to addressing multiple development challenges through sustainable livestock solutions.

Responsibilities:

VAT Management:

• Prepare VAT exemption applications on real time basis and share with liaison at least twice a week in addition, liaise with Liaison officer for their filing.
• Tracking submitted applications to ensure approved certificates are received promptly and within the validity period.
• Informing suppliers when certificates are ready for collection and ensuring timely follow-up, so they are collected before the validity period lapses
• Reverse accrued VAT amounts once suppliers have collected their certificates.
• Preparation and sharing of Vat schedule/progress reports on a weekly basis with the relevant stakeholders.
• Conduct monthly reconciliations to ensure all VAT applications are accounted for and prompt action is taken on any discrepancies.
• Ensure all time-barred applications are addressed within the first month.
• Maintain accurate VAT records and prepare monthly aging schedules to ensure that balances in VAT account (62500) are not outstanding for more than six months. Monthly reports should be shared with the Supervisor.

Risk Management:

• Proactively identify risks arising from delayed, expired, or unclaimed VAT certificates and take timely action to mitigate them.
• Monitor VAT account (62500) to prevent prolonged outstanding balances and revenue leakage.
• Ensure timely escalation of high-risk or non-compliant VAT items to management.

• Support mitigation measures to minimize financial exposure and maintain compliance.
• Ensure proper filling of all documentation relating to this function both in physical and soft copy forms.
• Provide additional support on demand to the clients of the unit.
• Train the alternate position holder in all aspects of this job to ensure continuity.
• Help other unit members to learn and excel in their work
• Support audit processes by providing the VAT schedules and relevant support documents as required.
• Any other assigned activities within the Unit as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business or a related field
• At least CPA Intermediate level
• Strong computer skills, with solid proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• At least 1 year of experience in a relevant role

Post location: The position will be based in Nairobi, Kenya