The Chief Accountant is responsible for managing and overseeing all accounting and financial operations of the UEPC Kazakhstan Project, ensuring compliance with UCC Holding policies, International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), local Kazakhstan regulations, tax requirements, and project financial controls. The role is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, preparing financial reports, managing audits, monitoring budgets, controlling costs, and leading the project accounting team.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management & Reporting
- Oversee daily accounting operations, including General Ledger, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Fixed Assets, and Bank Reconciliations.
- Ensure timely and accurate preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
- Prepare project financial reports, management reports, and variance analyses for senior management.
- Monitor project cash flow requirements and support treasury activities.
- Ensure all financial transactions are accurately recorded and properly documented.
Budgeting & Cost Control
- Coordinate with the Cost Control and Commercial teams to monitor project budgets and expenditures.
- Analyze budget variances and provide recommendations to improve cost efficiency.
- Support project forecasting and financial planning activities.
- Review project costs to ensure alignment with approved budgets and contractual requirements.
Compliance & Audit
- Ensure compliance with IFRS, UCC Holding financial policies, and Kazakhstan statutory regulations.
- Manage internal and external audits and coordinate audit requirements.
- Ensure all accounting records are maintained in accordance with legal and corporate requirements.
- Monitor compliance with tax regulations, VAT requirements, and statutory reporting obligations.
Accounts Payable & Receivable
- Review and approve supplier payments, employee reimbursements, and subcontractor invoices.
- Monitor receivables and coordinate follow-up actions to ensure timely collections.
- Verify the accuracy and completeness of invoice processing and payment documentation.
Team Leadership
- Lead, supervise, and develop the project accounting team.
- Allocate responsibilities and monitor team performance.
- Provide guidance and training to finance staff on accounting procedures and system requirements.
- Promote a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Financial Systems & Controls
- Ensure proper implementation and maintenance of SAP ERP / SAP SuccessFactors financial processes where applicable.
- Strengthen internal controls to safeguard company assets and reduce financial risks.
- Review and improve accounting procedures and reporting systems.
- Support finance digitalization initiatives and process improvements.
Stakeholder Coordination
- Liaise with project management, procurement, commercial, HR, and corporate finance teams.
- Coordinate with banks, auditors, tax authorities, and external consultants as required.
- Support management with financial analysis and strategic decision-making.
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
- Professional certification such as ACCA, CPA, CMA, CA, or equivalent is highly preferred.
Experience
- Minimum 12–15 years of accounting and finance experience.
- At least 5 years in a senior accounting leadership role within EPC, construction, infrastructure, oil & gas, energy, or industrial projects.
- Experience working on large-scale international projects is essential.
- Previous experience in Central Asia or international project environments is an advantage.
Technical Skills
- Strong knowledge of IFRS and financial reporting standards.
- Advanced knowledge of budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.
- Experience with SAP ERP systems.
- Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Excel and financial analysis tools.
- Familiarity with Kazakhstan tax and financial regulations is an added advantage.
Competencies
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- High attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet strict reporting deadlines.
- Ethical, professional, and highly organized.
