The Company

Stears is an intelligence startup of 30+ people using data to answer questions about Africa. Our mission is to become the world's most trusted provider of African data and insight to global businesses, finance, and policy professionals. We make this possible by integrating all our intelligence (proprietary data, aggregated public data, licensed data, forecasts, and reports) into a searchable web platform.

Our customers currently pay for access to Stears’ intelligence through a web platform, which goes beyond data to provide deep insights and context based on knowledge of local markets and on-the-ground research teams.

We are looking for a Finance Associate with in-depth knowledge of accounting principles and tax laws, as well as experience working with accounting software. This individual should ideally have experience within the tech and innovation space.

The Role
Why it’s important: This role will be important for building out our capacity to execute our operational and financial strategy within the Operations team. You will be responsible for working with the members of the Operations team and the COO to deliver on key results to drive financial efficiency across-board.

What it covers: As a Finance Associate, you will play a key role in assisting with financial reporting, account reconciliation, budget preparation, and other accounting functions. This position offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced and supportive environment.

Who you will work with: This role is part of the Operations team, and you will be reporting to the Senior Finance Associate. In addition to working with the core team, you will also engage with other amazing stakeholders like the People & Culture Team and the leadership of the Company.

We are looking for someone with:

• • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
  • At least two (2) to three (3) years work experience in a finance, accounting and operations role, preferably in a technology/innovation company.
  • Professional accounting qualifications (ACCA, ACA or ICAN) preferred.
  • Strong understanding of accounting principles, financial analysis, and bookkeeping processes.
  • Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Excel.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • The proven ability to manage tight deadlines and prioritise tasks effectively.

• Exceptional attention to detail and analytical skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a deadline-driven environment.

Responsibilities

Financial Reporting

• Assist in financial reporting, including preparing accurate and complete monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Collaborate closely with the Senior Finance Associate to manage all financial processes in the company, with a focus on tracking and reporting in accordance with the company’s financial plan.
• Support the budgeting and forecasting processes.
• Maintaining accurate financial records.
• Provide insights through financial analysis to support strategic decision-making.

Financial Operations

• Oversee day-to-day financial operations, including accounts payable and receivable.
• Streamline financial processes to improve efficiency and accuracy.
• Monitor and manage cash flow and expenditure.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with internal processes and best practices.

Compliance

• Complying with all company, local, state, and federal accounting and tax regulations.
• Collaborate with external tax advisors to provide relevant source documents and ensure compliance.
• Assist with the collation and preparation of company data for audits, account opening, due diligence reviews and statutory filings
• Stay abreast of current tax and accounting legislation relevant to the Company.

Perks

• Hybrid working (office and remote as required)
• Special emphasis on learning and development

• Comprehensive health insurance

• Competitive salaries at junior, intermediate and senior levels

• Paid time off - 25 days excluding public holidays and sick days

• Access to an expert Intelligence team - Stears Intelligence team includes some of the brightest knowledge experts in Nigeria covering a wide range of sectors, all with a passion for delivering the highest quality of intelligence on the African continent.
• The Stears Experience - These are the top reasons our team members highlight as contributing to having the best experience of their careers at Stears:
  • Deepen their analytical & critical thinking skills which apply beyond a specific domain
  • Gain a high level of autonomy and responsibility by taking on responsibility for an entire industry
  • Do something meaningful by being part of a team making African data more widely available

Diversity

Stears is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants regardless of colour, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital or family status, disability, gender identity or expression, veteran status, actual or presumed belonging to an ethnic group, or any other legally protected status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.