Small and Medium Enterprises Development Corporation (SMEDCO) is a parastatal organization under the Ministry of Industrialization, Business, Trade & Tourism. It was established under section 3 of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Act of 2024 with a mandate of regulating, promoting and developing the Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector in Malawi.
SMEDCO intends to recruit the services of well-qualified, experienced and result oriented persons to fill various positions tenable at its Head Office and various satellite offices across the country as follows:
SMEDCO intends to recruit the services of well-qualified, experienced and result oriented persons to fill various positions tenable at its Head Office and various satellite offices across the country as follows:
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Lilongwe
- Category: Accounting
- Closing Date: 2026-08-04
Key Responsibilities
- Processing payments according to the established policies, procedures and budget;
- Supervising and checking bank reconciliations;
- Responding to audit queries arising from internal and external auditors and providing information to internal or external Auditors in times of audit activities;
- Participating in reviewing accounting systems, practices and procedures in the Institute;
- Participating in the preparations of annual budgets and other related documents;
- Monitoring expenditure to avoid deviations and overruns;
- Maintaining books of accounts;
- Assigning tasks, supervising and appraising performance of accounts staff under him/her;
- Maintaining and updating fixed assets register;
- Preparing periodic management reports.
Requirements
- Bachelor of Accountancy or any related field from a recognized and accredited tertiary institution. Those with full professional qualifications such as ACCA, CIMA, ACA shall have an added advantage;
- Membership of professional bodies such as ICAM, ACCA;
- A minimum of three (3) years’ practical experience in a very busy office, preferably with various satellite offices;
- Sound knowledge of Public Financial Management;
- Strong analytical and interpersonal skills;
- Strong organizational skills, versatility, ability to multi-task and meet deadlines;
- Self-starter;
- High levels of honesty and integrity;
- Excellent communication skills.
How to Apply
Applications with detailed curriculum vitae with at least three names of relevant and traceable referees, including that of an immediate past employer if applicable, should be sent to:
The Chief Executive Officer,
SMEDCO,
Private Bag 393,
Lilongwe 3
or through: smedi@smedi.mw
To reach him not later than close of business on Tuesday 4th August 2026.
The Chief Executive Officer,
SMEDCO,
Private Bag 393,
Lilongwe 3
or through: smedi@smedi.mw
To reach him not later than close of business on Tuesday 4th August 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and professional certifications are generally expected for a Senior Accountant role in a Malawian parastatal like SMEDCO?
Typically, a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting or Finance is required, often coupled with professional certifications such as ACCA, CIMA, or ICAM. Significant practical experience in a similar financial role, usually 3-5 years, is also a key expectation for senior positions in Malawi.
What would be the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Senior Accountant focusing on SME development in Malawi?
Daily tasks would involve overseeing financial transactions, preparing management accounts, and ensuring compliance with Malawian financial regulations and internal policies. This also includes budgeting, financial reporting, and potentially guiding junior accounting staff within the organization.
What is the typical work culture and professional expectation for a Senior Accountant within a Malawian public sector or parastatal organization?
Expect a professional environment that values adherence to established procedures, teamwork, and strong ethical conduct in financial management. Meeting deadlines and ensuring accountability in financial reporting are paramount in the Malawian public sector context.
What are the realistic career progression opportunities for a Senior Accountant within an organization like SMEDCO in Malawi?
A Senior Accountant can typically advance to roles such as Chief Accountant, Assistant Finance Manager, or Finance Manager, depending on performance and further professional development. Gaining experience in various financial aspects and demonstrating leadership skills are crucial for upward mobility.
What kind of benefits package is usually offered for a Senior Accountant position within a reputable organization or parastatal in Malawi?
Standard benefits generally include medical aid coverage, contributions to a pension scheme, and annual leave allowances as per Malawian labour laws. Some organizations may also offer professional development support or study leave for relevant certifications.
What do Malawian employers, particularly in the parastatal sector, look for in a Senior Accountant application, and how can one stand out?
Employers seek candidates with strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of Malawian accounting standards, and demonstrable experience in financial reporting and compliance. Highlighting professional qualifications, relevant industry experience, and a commitment to ethical financial practices will help your application stand out.