Chief Accountant, Nicosia – CAN/01/26

The Chief Accountant, reporting to the CFO, will be responsible for overseeing and managing the full accounting function of a group of companies operating in the fashion trading industry. This role combines team leadership, technical accounting expertise, tax compliance, and hands-on operational accounting. The Chief Accountant will ensure accurate financial reporting, compliance with statutory and tax requirements, and timely month-end and year-end closings.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee and perform day-to-day accounting activities, including posting of invoices and journal entries in ERP Business Central
Ensure accurate general ledger maintenance for all group entities
Perform and review monthly reconciliations (Bank, AR, AP, inventory, intercompany, payroll, VAT, etc.)
Lead and execute month-end and year-end closing processes
Prepare trial balances and support in preparation of management accounts
Support audits and implement audit recommendations
Ensure accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of financial data

Supervise accounting across multiple group companies
Manage and reconcile intercompany transactions and balances
Ensure consistent accounting policies across the group

Ensure full compliance with tax and statutory requirements, including:
- VAT returns
- Intrastat declarations
- VIES reporting
- Corporate tax support and filings
Monitor changes in tax regulations and ensure timely implementation
Act as main contact for tax authorities, auditors, and external advisors
Oversee and monitor of internal payroll processing

Ensure payroll postings, reconciliations, and related tax/social contributions are accurate
Coordinate with HR on payroll-related matters

Lead, supervise, and mentor a team of accountants
Allocate tasks, review work, and ensure deadlines are met
Support professional development and performance management of the team
Improve accounting processes, controls, and efficiencies

Qualifications & Experience

Degree in Accounting, Finance, or in any other related field
Professional accounting qualification (e.g. ACCA, ACA, CPA, or equivalent) preferred
Minimum 5 years of experience in accounting, preferably in:
- Trading / retail / fashion industry
Strong knowledge of VAT, Intrastat, VIES, and EU tax compliance
Experience leading and managing an accounting team

Strong technical accounting knowledge
Hands-on, detail-oriented, and well-organized
Leadership and people management skills
Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
Strong Excel and accounting system skills