Accounting & Process Improvement Assistant

About Our School The Metropolitan School of Panama is a top international school in Panama City, serving students from Early Childhood 3 to 12th grade. With 800 students from 45 nationalities and 120 globally experienced educators, our diverse community is one of our greatest strengths. Our History Founded in 2011, the MET was built on a vision of academic excellence, exceptional teachers, small class sizes, and a joyful, inspiring environment where every student can thrive. LOCATION: The Metropolitan School of Panama JOB TITLE: Accounting & Process Improvement Assistant CONTRACT TYPE : Fixed-Term Contract JOB PURPOSE Supports the day-to-day operations of the Finance Department, including accounts payable, purchasing, reconciliations, and financial administration. In addition to transactional responsibilities, the role is expected to contribute to process improvement initiatives by leveraging technology, data analysis, and automation tools to simplify manual activities, improve reporting, and increase operational efficiency. This position is ideal for an early-career finance professional with strong analytical skills, an interest in technology, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. REPORTING TO : Accounting Manager OTHER KEY RELATIONSHIPS : Director of Finance; Finance Team; School Leadership; Parents’ Community; School Departments : Local and International Vendors KEY RESULT AREA Accounting and Bookkeeping Support Process invoices, payments, and other financial transactions accurately and timely. Assist with accounts payable and purchasing activities. Support monthly bank and account reconciliations. Maintain organized financial records and supporting documentation. Assist with month-end close activities as required. Support internal and external audit requests. Purchasing and Operational Support Support the purchasing cycle from requisition to payment. Ensure invoices and purchasing documentation are properly maintained. Follow up with vendors regarding invoices, payments, and outstanding documentation. Assist in monitoring open purchase orders and supplier balances. Maintain appropriate records in the accounting system and register orders against the appropriate budget line. Support departmental tasks and special School projects as required. Perform other duties directly related to the role as reasonably assigned by the employer. Reporting & Analysis Prepare recurring financial and operational reports. Support budget tracking and expenditure monitoring. Assist in gathering, validating, and analyzing financial data. Develop reports and dashboards that improve financial visibility and decision-making. Process Improvement & Automation Identify opportunities to simplify and streamline manual processes. Create and maintain Excel-based tools and automated trackers. Assist in the development of dashboards using Power BI. Support workflow automation initiatives. Document processes and maintain standard operating procedures. Contribute with ideas that improve efficiency, accuracy, and internal controls. PERSON SPECIFICATIONS Qualifications / Training Bachelor’s degree in accounting preferred. Experience / Knowledge / Skills 1-3 years of experience in Accounting, Finance, Administration, or a similar role. Strong numerical and analytical capabilities Strong IT skills, particularly proficiency with Microsoft applications. High level of accuracy, organization, discretion, and administrative capability. Accounting, reporting, and general math skills. Good written and verbal communication skills in English; bilingual English and Spanish. Experience working with accounting systems. Deadline-oriented with excellent time management and ability to work calmly under pressure. High level of integrity and confidentiality with sensitive information. Exposure to business reporting or process improvement initiatives is considered an advantage Process Improvement Mindset and data-Driven Decision Making ADDITIONAL EXPECTATIONS Comply with all adopted School policies and administrative procedures. Participate actively in relevant meetings, workshops, training, and School activities. Maintain ambitious standards of professional behavior, punctuality, confidentiality, and accountability. Follow appropriate communication channels and carry out other reasonable duties related to the role as requested by the supervisor. SAFEGUARDING Complete all required Nord Anglia University safeguarding training and comply with the school’s safeguarding policies and procedures. Promote the welfare of children and young people and report any safeguarding concern promptly through the appropriate School channels