Financial Assistant

About SMART

SMART is a prominent research initiative founded through a collaboration between the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the National Research Foundation of Singapore (NRF). It acts as a nexus for global research partnerships, extending beyond MIT and Singapore to include regional and international scholars. The organization focuses on tackling significant societal challenges through advanced research and fosters a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship within Singapore. Currently, six interdisciplinary research groups are active, spanning topics like antimicrobial resistance, personalized medicine manufacturing analytics, precision agriculture technologies, sensor device innovation, and elderly care imaging. SMART also operates an Innovation Centre.

Position Overview

SMART Headquarters is looking for an energetic and adaptable Financial Assistant who can multitask efficiently and has a willingness to learn.

Key Responsibilities

• Handle Accounts Payable, including payments, employee reimbursements, and corporate credit card transactions.
• Verify invoices, credit notes, and receipts for accuracy, completeness, and correct general ledger coding; ensure all approvals and supporting documents are in place.
• For Accounts Payable, perform three-way matching with Purchase Orders supported by Delivery Orders or Service Reports.
• Manage scheduled payment cycles, ensuring payments align with established schedules and that cash management references are accurately reconciled in the system.
• Review and authorize Employee Travel Requests in compliance with Travel Management Guidelines.
• Perform monthly bank reconciliations comparing bank statements to accounting records.
• Maintain fixed asset records both in SAP and manually, and conduct asset verification exercises as required.
• Ensure adherence to Financial, Procurement, and Travel policies.
• Prepare journal entries for adjustments and corrections when necessary.
• Address supplier payment queries, employee reimbursement questions, and clarify Financial, Procurement, and Travel guidelines.
• Carry out other ad-hoc tasks as assigned.

Candidate Requirements

• Possess a Diploma or Degree in Accounting.
• Have 1 to 2 years of relevant experience.
• Exhibit strong communication skills and a positive disposition.
• Be a good team player capable of working with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrate attention to detail and meticulousness.
• Maintain focus despite frequent interruptions.
• Proficient in English, both spoken and written.
• Experience with SAP or Coupa financial systems is advantageous.
• Competent in Microsoft Excel and Word.

Additional Information

This role is offered on a contract basis for two years, with the option to renew.