The Initiative for Climate Action and Development (ICAD) is a fully registered NGO with NGORA and an independent think tank working at the intersection of climate, energy, water, agriculture, migration, economics and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Based in Lilongwe, we generate evidence, influence policy, and work with District Councils, Government of Malawi, and regional and international partners to advance impactful climate action, effective climate policies and resilient development.
ROLE PURPOSE
We seek a proactive and detail-oriented Accountant to manage ICAD’s project finances, ensure compliance with statutory and donor requirements, and strengthen financial systems for a growing portfolio of our programs.
Job Summary
- Employer: Initiative for Climate Action and Development (ICAD)
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Accounting
- Closing Date: 2026-10-15
Key Responsibilities
- Manage day-to-day accounting, bookkeeping, budgeting and expenditure control for ICAD as an institution and its projects and programs.
- Prepare monthly management accounts, cashflow forecasts, bank reconciliations and variance reports.
- Support management of payroll, PAYE, pension, withholding tax, VAT and NGORA annual returns in compliance with Malawi laws.
- Maintain accurate records in QuickBooks/Sage, manage procurement payments, assets register and stores.
- Lead donor financial reporting, grant tracking, and audit preparation for multiple projects including CDF/DDF-linked climate financing.
- Strengthen internal controls, financial policies and compliance with NGO Board and donor guidelines.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance or Business Administration – ICAM/ACCA/CIMA registered or pursuing.
- Minimum 3 years experience in NGO or think tank accounting, with multi-donor grant management.
- Strong knowledge of Malawi tax laws, NGORA compliance, and public finance procedures.
- Proficiency in QuickBooks/Sage, Advanced Excel and online/bank reconciliations.
- Experience in grants management, donor proposal development and climate finance processes.
- High integrity, confidentiality and ability to meet tight deadlines.
How to Apply
Apply by email: gift.icad@outlook.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications do I need to become an accountant at a Malawian NGO like ICAD?
Most employers require a Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration from a recognized institution like the University of Malawi or Mzuzu University. Professional certification such as ACCA, CIMA, or ICAM membership significantly strengthens your candidacy and is often preferred for senior roles.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an accountant in a Malawian development organization?
Daily tasks include processing payments, reconciling bank statements, preparing financial reports for donors, and maintaining compliance with NGO financial regulations. You will also support budget preparation, conduct petty cash management, and liaise with auditors during annual reviews.
How does workplace culture and employer expectations differ in Malawian NGOs compared to private sector accounting?
NGO culture emphasizes transparency, donor accountability, and collaborative teamwork with program staff. Employers expect punctuality, strong ethical standards, and flexibility to meet reporting deadlines that align with international donor schedules.
What career progression opportunities exist for accountants working in Malawi's development sector?
With experience, you can advance to Finance Manager, Operations Director, or Regional Finance roles across multiple NGOs. Specializing in grant management or obtaining additional certifications opens doors to international organizations with competitive packages.
What benefits should I expect when working as an accountant for a Malawian NGO?
Standard benefits typically include annual leave as prescribed by Malawi labour law, medical insurance coverage, and pension contributions through NICO or other registered schemes. Some international NGOs may offer additional benefits like housing allowances or professional development funding.
How do I apply for accounting positions in Malawi, and what do employers prioritize in candidates?
Submit applications through job portals like MyJobo Malawi, LinkedIn, or directly via organization websites with a tailored CV and cover letter. Employers prioritize demonstrated experience with accounting software like QuickBooks or SAP, strong references, and proven integrity handling funds.