Financial Administrative Assistant

Administrative and Finance Assistant

Contract: Full-time; fixed term (1 year), renewable

Remuneration: Competitive, based on experience and competence

Location: Lagos

Reports to: Senior Consultant

About us

Africa Practice is a mission-led strategic consulting firm advising investors and development partners across the continent. Our mission is to shape a prosperous Africa that inspires the world. For over 20 years, we have been partnering with global investors, policy-makers, development partners and other changemakers to drive transformation on the continent.

Our insights and advocacy solutions are rooted in detailed systems and stakeholder understanding. We identify, generate, and analyse human-centred systems data to design impactful advocacy interventions. We deliver our world-class insights and advocacy solutions through our local presence.

We operate as one company, with a diverse team working on a hybrid basis in Abuja, Cape Town, Dakar, Dar es Salaam, Gaborone, Johannesburg, Lagos, Nairobi, and London. We are risk analysts, development economists, advocates, storytellers, data scientists, policy experts, systems thinkers and creative minds. Over 80% of our staff are African and over 50% are women. We have been a signatory to the UN Global Compact since 2021 and we have achieved B-Corp status.

About the role

We are seeking a reliable business administration or accounting graduate to play a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless operation and efficiency of our hybrid office environment and to support our dynamic team, based in Lagos and Abuja. This role combines administrative and financial responsibilities, including maintaining office systems, processing payments, managing invoices, and supporting tax payment processes.

The ideal candidate will be proficient in managing organisational finances, entering data, and using accounting software such as SAGE. They will also be responsible for generating cost reports, handling administrative functions, and providing support to colleagues throughout the accounting and administrative processes.

The responsibilities are as follows:

• Update financial spreadsheets with daily transactions and track bank statements.
• Create cost analysis reports for fixed and variable costs.
• Assist with tax returns, VAT payments, and preparation of staff pension schedules.
• Provide administrative support to consulting, finance, people and marketing teams as needed.
• Establish and maintain databases of service providers, contacts, and relevant organisational information.
• Organise travel and accommodation for staff, clients, and visitors.
• Ensure the office operates efficiently by managing procurement, inventory, and maintenance of supplies and equipment.
• Coordinate with facilities management to ensure a safe, clean, and functional workspace.
• Support onboarding processes, including setting up workspaces, providing tools, and delivering office orientation for new staff.
• Assist in organising company-wide and client meetings, events, and training sessions.
• Manage general clerical tasks such as filing, mail distribution, and equipment supplies.
• Maintain an inventory of fixtures, capital, and fittings.
• Support and deputise for the Finance Manager, including maintaining budget tracking and expenditures.
• Communicate with the wider team on operational and administrative matters to ensure smooth collaboration and foster a positive workplace culture.

What we are looking for

We are seeking a proactive and organised individual with exceptional problem-solving skills to perform the Administrative and Finance Assistant role.

The successful candidate will be passionate about supporting a mission-led organisation and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. They will demonstrate:

• Proven experience in office management, finance and administration, or a related role.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build positive relationships with team members and external stakeholders.
• Proficiency in using office management tools, such as Google Workspace Suite and online scheduling and conferencing platforms.
• Good knowledge of accounting and bookkeeping procedures.
• Advanced skills in using spreadsheets (creating spreadsheets and using financial functions) and familiarity with accounting software (e.g. SAGE)
• Familiarity with hybrid work environments and coordinating remote teams is an advantage.
• Exceptional written, quantitative and verbal communication skills, with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Financial literacy to track budgets and manage office-related expenses.
• A proactive and resourceful approach to problem-solving with a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Understanding of, and alignment with, our mission to shape a prosperous Africa that inspires the world.
• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent in business administration, finance, accounting, management, or a related field is preferred.

What we offer

We offer the successful candidate an opportunity to develop a rewarding career within a dynamic pan-African consultancy advising a prestigious portfolio of clients. This position offers:

• Competitive remuneration
• Immediate opportunities for growth
• Collaboration with a diverse and experienced team of colleagues

Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of colour are much less likely to apply for a position unless they meet every single qualification. So this notwithstanding, if you are excited about this role, we would love to hear from you. At Africa Practice, we are dedicated to building an inclusive, diverse and authentic workplace. You might just be the new team member we are looking for - for this or other roles.

Do you want to contribute to an influential and prosperous Africa, inspiring the world? We’re looking for Africa’s changemakers – smart people with strong analytical and problem-solving skills who can reconcile diverse perspectives to deliver sustainable change.

Please send in your application by clicking on the “apply” button.

Do include a cover letter explaining why you think you are suited to this position and indicating your availability. Your documents must be entitled with “your name, Administrative and Finance Assistant, Nigeria”.

The vacancy is immediately open for suitable applications and will be closed as soon as a suitable candidate is identified. Early applications are advised.