MFG
Accounting Jobs in Kenya – Career Opportunities
Accounting is one of the most stable and respected careers in Kenya, with opportunities spanning across all sectors — from government ministries to multinational corporations, startups, and NGOs. As regulatory compliance, taxation, and financial reporting become more critical, accounting professionals are in high demand across Kenya.
This 2025 guide covers everything you need to know about accounting jobs in Kenya, including job roles, qualifications, salary expectations, and where to find the latest vacancies.
What Do Accountants Do?
Accountants help organizations manage their finances by recording transactions, preparing financial reports, conducting audits, handling tax compliance, and offering strategic advice.
Key Responsibilities:
- Preparing financial statements and budgets
- Managing ledgers and reconciliations
- Ensuring tax compliance (KRA returns, PAYE, VAT)
- Conducting audits and internal controls
- Analyzing financial data for decision-making
Common Accounting Job Titles in Kenya
Here are popular accounting roles across different career levels:
| Job Title | Level | Common Employers |
|---|---|---|
| Accounts Clerk | Entry | SMEs, NGOs, Gov’t |
| Accounts Assistant | Entry | Startups, Agencies |
| Accountant | Mid-Level | Corporates, NGOs |
| Tax Accountant | Mid to Senior | Audit firms, Gov’t |
| Management Accountant | Senior | Banks, Manufacturers |
| Audit Associate | Entry to Mid | Audit firms (KPMG, Deloitte) |
| Chief Accountant | Senior | Corporates, NGOs |
| Finance Manager | Executive | NGOs, Public Sector |
| Internal Auditor | Mid to Senior | Parastatals, Universities |
Qualifications for Accounting Jobs in Kenya
Academic Requirements:
- Diploma or Degree in:
- Accounting
- Finance
- Business Administration
- Economics
Professional Certifications:
- CPA (Certified Public Accountant) – Most in-demand
- ACCA (UK) – Highly recognized internationally
- CIFA – Ideal for finance and investments
- CPS (Certified Public Secretary) – Often required for governance roles
Key Skills Employers Look For:
- Accuracy & attention to detail
- Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Sage, SAP, Tally)
- Knowledge of IFRS and Kenyan tax laws
- Analytical & reporting skills
- Communication and teamwork
Accounting Job Salaries in Kenya
Accounting salaries vary by experience, industry, and location:
| Position | Monthly Salary (KSh) |
|---|---|
| Accounts Clerk | 25,000 – 50,000 |
| Accountant | 60,000 – 150,000 |
| Tax Associate | 80,000 – 180,000 |
| Senior Accountant | 150,000 – 250,000 |
| Finance Manager | 250,000 – 500,000+ |
| Chief Finance Officer (CFO) | 500,000 – 1.5M+ |
NGOs, multinational corporations, and banks tend to pay the highest.
Top Employers Hiring Accountants in Kenya
Government & Public Sector:
- Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA)
- National Treasury
- Auditor General’s Office
- County Governments
Audit & Consulting Firms:
- KPMG
- Deloitte
- Ernst & Young (EY)
- PwC Kenya
- BDO East Africa
Private Sector & NGOs:
- Safaricom
- Equity Bank
- World Bank & UNDP
- Amref, Red Cross, CARE Kenya
- EABL, Bidco, Bamburi Cement
Where to Find Accounting Jobs in Kenya
Use these top platforms to find current accounting vacancies:
| Platform | Best For |
|---|---|
| BrighterMonday.co.ke | Local job listings |
| Fuzu.com | Entry to mid-level roles |
| MyJobMag.co.ke | NGO & government jobs |
| LinkedIn Jobs | Corporate and multinational roles |
| KRA and PSC Portals | Public sector jobs |
| CPAK (Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya) | Training & job updates |
How to Write an Accounting CV That Gets Noticed
- Highlight CPA/ACCA certifications and progress (e.g., CPA Section 4)
- Emphasize software skills (QuickBooks, SAP, Excel)
- Use data-driven achievements:
“Reduced audit queries by 30% through improved reporting systems”
“Managed monthly payroll for 200+ staff without error” - Include internships or volunteer finance roles if you’re a fresh graduate
Short Courses to Enhance Your Accounting Career
Take these courses to gain a competitive edge:
- Advanced Excel for Accountants
- QuickBooks and Sage Accounting
- Taxation in Kenya (KRA-focused) – Available at KCA University & ICPAK
- IFRS Mastery Course
- Forensic Accounting & Fraud Detection
Most courses are available at:
- Strathmore University
- KCA University
- ICPAK (Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya)
- Online on Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning
Entry-Level Tip: How to Land Your First Accounting Job
- Start with internships or volunteer positions — especially during or right after school.
- Join professional bodies like ICPAK or ACCA Kenya.
- Keep up with tax and finance trends — follow KRA updates.
- Network through events or LinkedIn groups like Young Accountants KE.
- Apply proactively — don’t wait for “perfect” roles.
Real Success Story
“After completing CPA Section 3, I interned at a small audit firm in Nairobi. That experience helped me land a role at KPMG within a year. The journey was tough, but it’s worth it.”
— Daniel K., Audit Associate
Final Thoughts
Accounting jobs in Kenya offer stable and rewarding career paths, especially for those with the right skills, certifications, and work ethic. With the digitization of finance and increased demand for transparency, accountants are more essential than ever across all sectors.
Whether you’re a student, fresh graduate, or seasoned accountant, the opportunities are vast — if you’re prepared.
Need help building your accounting CV or preparing for an interview? Drop a comment below or request a free template.
To apply for this job please visit www.google.com.