Illovo Sugar (Malawi) plc is the country’s leading producer of raw, refined and specialty sugars; employing more than 9,000 employees. Illovo Sugar (Malawi) plc is part of Illovo Sugar Africa Group; a wholly-owned subsidiary of Associated British Foods plc (ABF).
Job Summary
- Employer: Illovo Sugar (Malawi) plc
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Accounting
- Closing Date: 2026-09-18
Key Responsibilities
- Meticulously manage tax compliance and the timely submission of all returns for the illovo group to prevent penalties.
- Prepare and reconcile all tax-related journal entries to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the illovo group financial transactions.
- Collaborate with the Treasury team to prepare comprehensive tax forecasts for the group’s budgets and strategic plans.
- Maintain all tax documentation, returns and ensure regulatory compliance to effectively mitigate business tax risks.
- Engage in the monthly meetings and on-the-job coaching with the finance team.
- Serve as the key liaison to the Malawi Revenue Authority handling all tax transactional and operational relationships including tax certifications.
- Reconciliation of tax accounts with MRA to ensure all transactions and balances are agreed and any long outstanding items are followed up and resolved.
- Promote and adhere to illovo’s procedures, policies and guidelines, including, without limitation, those relating to SHERQ, Competition Law and Anti-Bribery and Corruption (ABC).
Requirements
- A Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy is required, with professional qualifications such as in CIMA, ACCA, or CA Malawi is an added advantage.
- A deep understanding of Malawi tax legislation and its impact on a large corporate group.
- A highly proactive self-starter with the ability to work independently and anticipate changes impacting the functional area.
- Outstanding business analysis skills to generate key insights and add measurable value to the business.
- Proven accounting and reporting abilities, with a detailed process and analytical mindset.
- A goal-oriented professional committed to delivering high-quality outputs consistently.
- The ability to work effectively with people at various levels of the business and foster a positive team culture.
- Strong verbal and interpersonal skills for building and maintaining with both internal and external stakeholder relationships.
- Excellent leadership skills to guide others and embrace continuous personal and professional development.
How to Apply
Apply by email: MWcorporatehr@illovo.co.za
Address: Private Bag 580, Limbe
Address: Private Bag 580, Limbe
About the Company
Illovo Sugar (Malawi) plc is a key player in Malawi's agricultural and industrial landscape, primarily engaged in sugar production. This prominent Malawian company maintains a public listing on the Malawi Stock Exchange. The majority of its issued share capital, precisely 76%, is held by the Illovo Group, a significant entity in the African sugar sector. The remaining shares are accessible to the public, fostering local investment and broader participation in the company's operations within Malawi.
Malawi's key producer of sugar, listed on the local exchange.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Tax Accountant role in Malawi?
A bachelor's degree in accounting or finance is typically required, along with professional certification such as ACCA, CPA, or a local tax qualification. Candidates should have a solid understanding of Malawi’s tax legislation, including corporate, income, and VAT regulations. Practical experience with tax software and data analysis tools is highly valued.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Tax Accountant at a company like Illovo Sugar in Malawi?
The role involves preparing and filing corporate tax returns, ensuring compliance with Malawi Revenue Authority deadlines. You will also conduct tax research, advise management on tax planning, and reconcile tax accounts. Regular interaction with external auditors and tax officials is common.
What is the typical work culture and expectations for a Tax Accountant in Malawi?
Malawian workplaces value punctuality and respect for seniority, so arriving on time and addressing supervisors formally is expected. Team collaboration is encouraged, but individual accountability for deadlines remains paramount.
What realistic career progression or growth paths exist for a Tax Accountant in Malawi?
Starting as a junior tax accountant, you can advance to senior tax accountant after gaining experience and demonstrating accuracy. With further expertise and leadership skills, promotion to tax manager or finance director roles becomes possible.
What typical benefits can a Tax Accountant expect in Malawi?
Standard benefits include statutory annual leave, sick leave, and a company-sponsored medical aid scheme. Many employers also contribute to a pension fund and offer professional development allowances.
How should a job seeker apply for a Tax Accountant position in Malawi and what do employers look for?
Submit a tailored CV and cover letter highlighting tax experience and relevant qualifications to the company’s HR portal or email. Prepare for a competency-based interview that tests your knowledge of Malawi tax law and problem‑solving skills.