Country Accountant
Summary:  
Description:  

Who We Are


Mercy Ships is a global faith-based charity that uses hospital ships to bring life-changing surgeries and transformational medical training to people in some of the most challenging contexts along the African coast. For over 40 years, Mercy Ships has been delivering lasting hope and healing through safe surgical care, while working alongside partners and stakeholders to strengthen local healthcare systems in more than 55 countries. Since the inception of this dream by founders Don and Deyon Stephens in 1978, Mercy Ships has served more than 2.7 million direct beneficiaries without regard for race, gender, or religion.

 

The Opportunity

This is a full-time, on-site position based in Sierra Leone. 

The Country Accountant will oversee and manage the financial operations of Mercy Ships Sierra Leone office. The role involves ensuring accurate accounting practices, compliance with financial regulations, effective budget management, and financial reporting to support the mission and objectives.

 

How You’ll Contribute

  • Manage and oversee all accounting functions, including the preparation and maintenance of financial records
  • Ensure compliance with local financial regulations and international NGO financial standards
  • Process and record daily financial transactions, including validation of expense coding and in-country spending
  • Produce monthly financial status reports through certification
  • Maintain in-country inventory of Mercy Ships equipment
  • Reconcile banking transactions using the Abila accounting system
  • Prepare and submit monthly returns to relevant government agencies (e.g., tax and pension institutions)
  • Prepare mid- and year-end financial statements, including General Ledger (GL), Trial Balance (TB), Profit & Loss (P&L) statement, and Balance Sheet, ensuring compliance with local regulations
  • Support local banking activities, including processing accounts payable (AP) and liaising with banks to ensure smooth operations
  • Assist in the development, monitoring, and reporting of the country office budget
  • Prepare for and facilitate external audits, providing necessary documentation and explanations
  • Address audit findings and implement recommended changes
  • Demonstrate strong cultural intelligence and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment
  • Perform additional duties as required by the Country Director and ASC Finance Director

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
  • Minimum of 2–3 years of relevant accounting experience; experience with an international NGO or in a similar role preferred
  • Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial regulations, and budgeting practices
  • Proficient in accounting software and financial systems
  • Excellent attention to detail and strong organizational skills
  • Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team
  • Proficient in spoken and written English; proficiency in French is an asset
  • Supportive of Mercy Ships’ mission, vision, and core values
  • Demonstrates servant leadership, integrity, collaboration, and accountability

Pour your God-given talents into a mission with eternal return on investment -- join the Mercy Ships Crew, today!

This is a paid position. To explore our many Mercy Ships volunteer opportunities, please visit us at: https://www.mercyships.org/get-involved/volunteer/

 

**This position is compensated in alignment with local salary standards in Sierra Leone and is reflective of the nonprofit and international NGO sector. Details will be shared with shortlisted candidates during the interview process.