Accounting Officer

Key Responsibilities:

1. Tax Functions

• Review, prepare, and file monthly, quarterly, and annual tax returns (VAT, withholding tax, income tax, etc.) in compliance with local tax regulations.
• Monitor changes in tax laws and advise on their financial implications.
• Coordinate with tax consultants and authorities during assessments or inquiries.
• Ensure proper documentation and filing of all tax-related records.
• Assist in the implementation of tax planning strategies to optimize the company’s tax position.

1. Audit Functions

• Serve as the primary liaison for external auditors and internal audit teams.
• Prepare audit schedules, financial data, and supporting documentation.
• Coordinate responses to audit findings and support the implementation of audit recommendations.
• Monitor internal controls to ensure compliance with financial regulations and company policies.

1. Financial Reporting, Documentation & Reconciliation

• Review and validate books of accounts for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with IFRS or local GAAP.
• Oversee the preparation of accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Ensure proper classification and recording of financial transactions.
• Reconcile general ledger accounts and assist in bank reconciliation processes.
• Support month-end and year-end closing schedules and related activities.
• Maintain and update fixed asset registers and depreciation schedules.
• Enforce proper documentation and maintenance of complete and accurate financial records.

1. Confidential Transactions & Special Documentation

• Handle sensitive financial data and transactions with discretion, confidentiality, and integrity.
• Process and issue Certificates of Full Payment for car loans and other related financial clearances.
• Safeguard and manage confidential documents and secure files in compliance with data privacy and company policies.

1. Strategy & Policy

• Contribute to the development and execution of financial strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Assist in formulating and enforcing financial policies, procedures, and internal controls to enhance governance.

1. Operational Optimization

• Collaborate with editorial, production, and advertising departments to streamline financial processes.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency across finance-related operations.

1. Risk Management & Compliance

• Monitor financial activities to ensure compliance with internal controls, external regulations, and industry standards.
• Identify, assess, and help mitigate financial and operational risks.

1. System & Platform Oversight

• Administer financial functions within the IES Financial and IES Advertising Systems.
• Coordinate with IT and system providers to maintain system accuracy, functionality, and security.

1. Other Tasks

• Supervise and support junior accounting staff in daily financial operations and reconciliations.
• Monitor accounts payable and receivable to ensure timely and accurate processing.
• Guide and assist in budget preparation, cost tracking, and variance analysis.
• Prepare ad hoc financial reports and analysis for management decision-making.
• Perform other related tasks that may be assigned.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy, Accounting Technology or equivalent.
• At least 4-5 years of relevant accounting experience; experience in the media or publishing industry is a plus.

Competencies and Skills:

• CPA – preferred, but not required
• Experience working with Accounting ERPs
• Background on handling multiple entities and consolidations
• Experience in preparing financial statements and knowledge of taxation and related party transactions
• Knowledge in compliance laws and regulations such as, but not limited to, tax compliance with the BIR, SEC, etc.
• Goal-driven, result-oriented, self-reliant, enthusiastic, creative and resourceful, analytical, organized.
• Comprehensive, Risk Management, Good Oral and Written Communication Skills.
• Time Management Skills, Critical Thinker, Judgement and Decision Making Skills.
• Service Orientation Skills, Systems Analysis and Systems Evaluation Skills.