The immediate thought that crosses our minds when we think of Accountants is people who basically count money but there is more to accounting that only the professionals in the field can share. To illuminate your career path to accountacy and any finance related career, we bring Edwin Mugenyi, a time tested Accountant at Jopeg Investments Limited sharing with you what transpires behind the desk of an accountant

Describe an ordinary day for you?

I usually get to my desk by 7:30am, read through some emails while I enjoy a cup of tea. Get on to my daily tasks as listed up with a few breaks of some chit chatting with colleagues. I have my lunch at 1pm sharp then use the remaining minutes to pray and reflect on God's goodness or a brief bible study or an article from my subscriptions. At 2pm I resume my pending tasks and finish at 5:30pm or later depending on what's on my plate.

So what are your main tasks and responsibilities at work?

1. Posting daily transactions in the system and filing the respective vouchers.  
2. Updating and reconciling client accounts weekly.
3. Receipt and banking any monies to company.
4.  Preparation and payment of NSSF and PAYE schedules & Payroll management.
5. Managing petty cash.
6. Raising requisitions with respect to office expenses and initiating the purchases.
7. Computation of withholding taxes on interest and consultancy fees paid monthly.
8. Bank reconciliations and updating bank balances weekly.
9. Drafting monthly budgets with the support of the administrator.
10. Recording invoices and ensuring timely payments to suppliers.
11. Analyzing financial information in the reports generated and advising management accordingly.
12. Preparing final accounts.

What particular skills do you bring to your workplace ?

Initiative, Self motivation and Flexibility

What are some your main challenges at work

A huge work load at times, some conflicts with immediate supervisors on how certain tasks should be executed and monotony

So what's cool about your job

Doing what I studied at campus

What's not cool about your job?

A lot of seriousness most times

So how did you get your current job? 

A Friend from campus recommended me

So which key people influenced your career decision ? 

My teachers at high school and my Family

What subjects did you take in school and how have they influenced your career path ?

Math, Economics( + Commerce in O-Level) are a big composition of the business world and business related studies because of the principles they teach, Geography helps one think global and Fine Art has greatly built my creativity which is crucial in every area of life and career.

What is your Education to date?

Bachelors of Commerce Accounting Option and on Level Two of CPA (Certified Public Accountant) Uganda

Have you considered undertaking, or do you plan to undertake any further training as part of your job?

Yes To Complete CPA Uganda and some particular short courses to build certain specific skills 

What have been the most rewarding events in your career so far?

Building an Accounting system in a new organization from scratch

What personal qualities do you have that help in your career?

Integrity and Excellence

What is your dream job?

Chief Finance Officer in a multi-national firm

What are the most important personal characteristics required for the job?

A Teachable mind, Perseverance and Personal Motivation

What advise would you give someone considering this job?

It is rewarding and worth it since Finance and Accounting is a very important part of Organization

What kind of work experience would provide a good background for this position?

1. Experience in accounting practice
2. Proficiency with Spread sheets and accounting packages
3. Local tax laws and practice