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The Malawi School of Government (MSG) is a statutory higher education institution established under the Malawi School of Government Act No. 33 of 2022. The School is mandated to provide high-quality human resource development programmes, through training, research, consultancy and advisory services aimed at strengthening their capacity and promoting effective governance, leadership and institutional performance in the public and private sectors.

The Malawi School of Government invites applications from suitably qualified, competent and motivated candidates to fill the following position:
SENIOR FINANCE OFFICER-MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTING

Job Summary

Type: full-time
Location: Lilongwe
Category: Finance
Closing Date: 2026-09-03

Key Responsibilities

Implement and monitor effective financial control systems and mechanisms.
Generate, review and analyse general ledger reports.
Review and verify accounting codes used in financial transactions.
Support the preparation of sectional budgets and monitor their implementation.
Support in the preparation of the institutional budget and annual performance Management plans and their review
Prepare periodic financial and management reports.
Conduct regular financial analysis and project appraisal
Allocate work to Finance Officers and monitor their performance.
Participate in staff performance appraisal and development.
Review payment requests and supporting documentation to ensure compliance with approved procedures.
Ensure proper maintenance and filing of accountable documents.
Monitor revenue collection and ensure timely banking of receipts.
Monitor outstanding receivables and support appropriate follow-up and recovery actions.
Prepare and review bank reconciliations.
Prepare and review general ledger reconciliations.
Investigate and resolve reconciling items in a timely manner.
Facilitate and coordinate the preparation of audit schedules and supporting documentation.
Respond to audit queries and ensure timely implementation of agreed audit recommendations.
Prepare timely and accurate financial reports.
Prepare, complete and submit tax returns in accordance with applicable tax laws and regulations.
Support both internal and external audit processes and other financial reviews as required.

Requirements

A Bachelor’s Degree in Accountancy from a university accredited or recognised by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE).
A professional accounting qualification such as ACCA, CIMA or CPA.
At least five (5) years of relevant post-qualification experience in a comparable organisation in either the public or private sector.
Demonstrable experience in financial planning and management, financial reporting, management accounting, financial accounting and/or capital development projects.
Demonstrable ICT proficiency, particularly in the use of accounting and financial management systems and the preparation of financial reports.
Membership of and registration with a relevant professional accounting body in Malawi.
Strong analytical, communication and interpersonal skills.
High levels of integrity, professionalism and attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team while meeting tight deadlines.

How to Apply

Interested and suitably qualified candidates should submit an application letter, detailed Curriculum Vitae and the names and contact details of three (3) traceable referees.
Applications should be addressed to:
The Director General
Malawi School of Government
P.O. Box 30801
Lilongwe 3
Malawi
Email: recruitment@msg.ac.mw
Closing Date: 3rd September 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

About the Company

The Malawi School of Government operates as a specialized institution under the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), dedicated to enhancing public sector capacity. Building upon the legacy of the former Malawi Institute of Management (MIM), it offers comprehensive professional development programmes, executive training, and consultancy services. Its core mandate is to equip public service leaders and professionals across Malawi with essential skills in governance, leadership, public policy, and management. The School contributes significantly to the efficiency and effectiveness of the Malawian public sector through applied research and tailored interventions. With a commitment to national development, it serves as a crucial hub for fostering excellence in public administration throughout Malawi.

Empowering public service leaders and enhancing governance in Malawi.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications and certifications are typically required for the Senior Finance Officer role at the Malawi School of Government?

Applicants usually need a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field from a Malawian university or equivalent accredited institution. A professional accounting qualification such as ACCA, CIMA, or CA (Malawi Institute of Accountants) is strongly preferred, and registration with MIA is often expected for senior finance roles in public institutions.

What does a typical day look like for a Senior Finance Officer at the Malawi School of Government?

Daily tasks include preparing monthly financial reports, processing payments in line with Public Financial Management Act requirements, supporting budget preparation and monitoring, and liaising with the Ministry of Finance and National Treasury. You’ll also supervise junior finance staff and ensure compliance with internal controls and donor-funded project financial guidelines common in government training institutions.

How does the work culture and professional expectations differ in Malawian public sector finance roles compared to private sector or international organisations?

Public sector finance roles in Malawi emphasise procedural adherence, accountability to national frameworks like PFMA and the Public Procurement Act, and strong interpersonal engagement with diverse stakeholders across ministries. Punctuality, respect for hierarchy, and consensus-building in decision-making are culturally valued, and flexibility is needed when adapting to shifting government priorities or audit cycles.

What realistic career progression paths exist after serving as a Senior Finance Officer at the Malawi School of Government?

Successful officers may progress to Finance Manager or Head of Finance within the School or other government training institutions, or transition into broader public financial management roles such as Budget Officer or Internal Auditor in line ministries. Some pursue secondments to the Ministry of Finance, National Treasury, or donor-funded governance programmes, especially with demonstrated expertise in capacity building and financial systems strengthening.

What benefits—such as leave, medical aid, and pension—are typically offered in this role?

Officers are covered under the Malawi Public Service Pension Scheme and entitled to 30 days’ annual leave, sick leave, and maternity/paternity leave per the Employment Act. Medical benefits usually include access to government health facilities and sometimes a contributory medical aid scheme administered through the Civil Service Commission or Ministry of Finance.

How do I apply, and what do employers in Malawi specifically look for in candidates for this role?

Applications are submitted through the Civil Service Commission portal or via official announcements on the Malawi Government Gazette and Ministry of Finance website—always include certified academic and professional certificates. Employers prioritise candidates with proven experience in public sector financial reporting, familiarity with Malawi’s Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS), and evidence of integrity, stakeholder engagement, and capacity to train non-finance staff on financial procedures.

Accounting Audit Finance Management Accounting Tax