The Human Rights Commission (the Commission), an independent institution established under Chapter XI of the Constitution of the Republic of Malawi, with the primary mandate of the promotion and protection of human rights and investigations of violations of the rights accorded by the Constitution or any other law in Malawi, invites applications from suitable, qualified and experienced persons to fill the following vacant positions.
Title of post: Chief Accountant
Grade: H4
Report to: Director of Corporate Services
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Lilongwe
- Category: Accounting
- Closing Date: 2026-08-11
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinating all the Commission’s accounting functions;
- Advising Management on all aspects of financial management;
- Take a leading role in the preparation of annual budgets estimates for the Commission;
- Facilitate the preparation of Monthly, Quarterly, and Annual Financial Statements;
- Controlling all expenditures and reporting on all variances for both Government and project resources;
- Maintain adequate internal controls from time to time;
- Together with the Internal Auditor, prepare for external audits;
- Carry out such other lawful duties as assigned by the Commission from time to time.
Requirements
- A Bachelor of Accountancy or Commerce and studying towards CIMA, ACCA, or any relevant professional qualification;
- Should be a registered member of ICAM;
- Broad knowledge of Public Financial Management;
- A minimum of seven (7) years’ experience in the accounting field at a senior level;
- Experience of working in a public institution is required;
- Demonstrated knowledge and passion for human rights is an added advantage.
Salary
Grade: H4
How to Apply
The Commission is an equal opportunity employer. Female applicants, as well as persons with disability, who meet the pre-requisite qualifications and experience are encouraged to apply.
The Commission believes in zero tolerance for child abuse and sexual harassment within the institution and further acknowledges that children and females are entitled to full protection from exploitation and abuse. In this regard, all successful candidates will undergo Police checks for any child abuse and sexual harassment criminal record.
Please note that any canvassing shall lead to disqualification. Interested persons should submit their applications, indicating how they are suited to discharge the duties highlighted above, with up-to-date detailed curriculum vitae including names and addresses of three traceable referees to the following address:
The Chairperson,
Upper Appointment and Disciplinary Committee,
Malawi Human Rights Commission,
HB House, Off Paul Kagame Road,
Private Bag 378,
Lilongwe 3.
Or email: info@mhrcmw.org
The dosing date for applications is Tuesday, 11th August, 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Late submissions will not be accepted.
About the Company
The Malawi Human Rights Commission was established in 1994 by the country's constitution to oversee human rights in Malawi. In 2012, the UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights Kyung-wha Kang said that the MHRC had “done exemplary work...".
Website: https://mhrcmw.org/
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and certifications required for a Chief Accountant position in Malawi, especially within a public commission like the Human Rights Commission?
Generally, a Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance is essential, along with a professional qualification like ACCA, CIMA, or PAEC (Public Accountants Examination Council of Malawi). Experience with public sector accounting standards and financial regulations specific to Malawi is also highly valued.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities and challenges a Chief Accountant at the Malawi Human Rights Commission would face?
You would oversee all financial operations, including budgeting, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with national financial regulations and donor requirements. This often involves managing a finance team, preparing statutory accounts, and presenting financial information to management and board members.
What are the key aspects of the work culture and expectations for a senior accounting role within a Malawian public commission?
Expect an emphasis on accountability, transparency, and strict adherence to public finance management guidelines as stipulated by the Malawian government. Professionalism, ethical conduct, and strong communication skills are highly valued in such a public sector environment where public trust is paramount.
What are the realistic career progression or growth paths for a Chief Accountant within the Malawian public sector or similar organizations?
Successful Chief Accountants can progress to roles such as Director of Finance, Head of Internal Audit, or even assume leadership positions within other public institutions or regulatory bodies. Further professional development, continuous learning, and networking are crucial for advancing your career in Malawi's public finance landscape.
What kind of typical benefits, such as leave, medical aid, or pension schemes, can a Chief Accountant expect from a public commission in Malawi?
Public commissions usually offer structured benefit packages including annual leave, sick leave, and often a contributory pension scheme in line with Malawian employment laws. Medical aid coverage, sometimes extending to immediate family, is also a common benefit for senior staff within such organizations.
What should job seekers focus on when applying for a Chief Accountant role in Malawi, and what do employers typically look for in the application process?
Highlight your professional qualifications, relevant experience in financial management, and demonstrable knowledge of Malawian public sector financial regulations and reporting standards. Employers seek candidates with strong leadership potential, integrity, a proven track record of accurate financial oversight, and experience with relevant accounting software.