Finance Associate
Resume:
SUMMARY
Analytical Economics and Finance professional specializing in corporate financial analysis, emerging market investment strategies, and development finance. Adept at leveraging diverse experiences gained in various industries to contribute to innovative solutions in the finance and business sector, with a focus on emerging markets. Proven capability in translating complex data into actionable investment theses that optimize both financial returns and sustainable economic impact. P R O F E S S I O N A L S K I L L S
• Financial analysis
• Accounting (IFRS)
• Strategic planning and performance optimization
• Insurance & Trust Services (pensions, estate planning, trusteeship)
• Socio-economic development
• Client relationship management
• Credit analysis basics (interpreting accounts, variance analysis)
• Market research and trend analysis
• Data analytics & numeracy
• Advanced numeracy and critical thinking
• Sustainability & ESG integration
• Systems and process improvement
• Microsoft Office, spreadsheets and financial tools WORK EXPERIENCE
Accounts Assistant/ Accounts Associate Sep 2024 – Present ICEA LION Group Nairobi, Kenya
• Performed financial analyses to identify trends and support strategic decision-making.
• Optimized capital allocation by investing surplus funds into liquid, yield-bearing instruments, maximizing short-term portfolio returns while preserving corporate liquidity.
• Monitored a long-term investment portfolio comprising [equities/bonds/real estate], performing regular asset valuations, impairment testing, and financial health assessments of target entities.
• Conducted variance and root-cause analysis to identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Supported preparation of monthly management reports, financial reports, variance analysis between performance & budgets in addition to interim and annual audit preparations.
• Oversaw financial operations to ensure accuracy in accounting processes and compliance with regulations.
• Prepared and maintained detailed financial records, including accounts payable and receivable management.
• Managed daily and monthly financial operations, ensuring accurate cash handling, efficient petty cash management, timely bank reconciliations and executed month-end closing procedures accurately and within set deadlines.
• ESG reporting and integration into financial processes, embedding sustainability metrics into decision-making, supporting responsible investment practices and sustainable business practices.
• Supported bid bond processing, expenses management, cash flow monitoring, and investment of surplus funds.
• Processed payroll, employee benefits and commissions.
• Generated and distributed financial statements.
• Preparing audit schedules and answering to audit queries.
• Provision of ad-hoc data requests for various management evaluations.
• Developed and maintained effective relationships with vendors and suppliers.
• Supported the preparation of financial reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Assisted in streamlining financial processes to improve efficiency and resource allocation.
• Supported the development of multiple finance-related projects by gathering and analyzing business requirements.
• Prepared comprehensive documentation, including FRDs, BRDs, test cases, and user stories, to effectively guide technical teams.
• Collaborated with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure the alignment of system functionality with business needs.
• Applied IFRS standards to ensure compliance, accuracy, and transparency in financial reporting. Graduate Management Trainee Jun 2023 – August 2024 ICEA LION Trust Company Ltd Nairobi, Kenya
• Developed cross-functional expertise through intensive training spanning Pension Administration, Trust Administration, Corporate Trusteeship, Estate Planning & Estate Administration, Business Development & Client Relations, Trust Funds, and financial operations, with exposure to investments, fund flows, and fiduciary oversight.
• Developed strong analytical and problem-solving skills, enabling the optimization of financial performance and the crafting of innovative business strategies.
Emeldah Kimathi
Nairobi, Kenya
**************@*****.***
• Successfully navigated complex legal frameworks while safeguarding client interests and ensuring compliance.
• Provided tailored solutions to clients, blending technical knowledge with empathy and enriching my understanding of fiduciary responsibilities.
Intern Nov 2021 – Dec 2022
Flashmak Kenya Ltd Nairobi, Kenya
• Worked as a finance, business development, and administrative intern at Flashmak Kenya Limited, a company specializing in manufacturing and distribution.
• Coordinated logistics for company events, ensuring all details were managed efficiently.
• Assisted in the development of business plans and strategies.
• Contributed to the development of new products and service offerings, expanding market reach.
• Analyzed financial data to identify improvement areas and proposed actionable solutions.
• Ensured timely recording of transactions and accurate coding in the general ledger system, facilitating smooth account reconciliations.
• Maintained high level of organization in a fast-paced office environment.
• Provided exceptional customer service to internal and external stakeholders.
• Assisted in the preparation of reports, presentations, and other materials.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline processes and improve workflow. EDUCATION
Bachelor of Economics and Statistics, University of Nairobi Dec 2021 KCSE, Statehouse Girls' High School Dec 2016
CERTIFICATIONS
• ACCA Candidate, ACCA Global (Jan 2025 – Present)
• CFA Candidate, CFA Institute (Sep 2026 – Present)
• Data Analytics, ALX Africa Completed (Feb 2026)
• Young Insurance Professionals Program (YIPP), London School of Insurance &Africa Re Completed (Jan 2025)
• ICDL Certificate, KCA University Completed (Dec 2017) C O R P O R AT E A P P O I N TME N T S & L E A D E R S H I P
• ESG Committee at ICEA LION GROUP (2024 – Present)
• Culture & Change Committee at ICEA LION GROUP (July 2026 – Present)
• Creative Marketing Committee ICEA LION GROUP (2026 – Present)
• Kenya Model United Nations (2018 – 2021) - Held leadership roles including Conference Director and Project Manager at the University of Nairobi Charter. Advocated for diplomacy, sustainability, and structured development. AWARDS
• Second Place – AKI Future Leaders of Insurance Competition (2024) - Won second place in the prestigious AKI Future Leaders of Insurance competition with the presentation 'Life Insurance for Sustainable Futures: Integrating with the SDG Mission.' An idea/project that explored innovative approaches to align life insurance with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs), emphasizing sustainability and social responsibility within the insurance industry. The experience allowed me to engage deeply with key issues affecting our society and develop a compelling vision for the future of insurance that prioritizes environmental and social impact.
• Top in class award winner (2026) – attained top position in class in two units in the ACCA Programme I am currently enrolled in at Oshwal College.
REFERENCES
• Benson Wakaba – Group Head of Risk – ICEA LION GROUP Cell phone: +254-*********
Email: ******.******@********.***
• Nelson Wahiu Maina – Investment Analyst – BluePeak Private Capital Cell phone: +254-*********
Email: ***********@*****.***
• Sylas Ochieng – Assistant Manager – Association of Kenya Insurers (AKI) Cell phone: +254-*********
Email: ************@*****.***
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