I have spent most of my working life at mineral sands producer Sierra Rutile, starting as a cost analyst in May 2013. I was promoted to treasurer a year later, and made treasury manager in November 2016. My inspiration for accounting came at an early age when I considered becoming a banker. I had a strong liking for numbers and was good at maths.
A key aspect of my job is cashflow management. I do weekly cashflow forecasts covering the entire business and also ensure the company complies with all debt agreements. I see that all financial risks are identified and recommend measures to mitigate them.
Rutile, a mineral composed primarily of titanium dioxide, has many uses. For example, as a fine powder, it is a brilliant white pigment used in paints, plastics, paper and food. As nanoscale particles, it is effective at absorbing ultraviolet radiation and widely used in sunscreens.
The mineral sands sector creates jobs for many Sierra Leoneans and generates significant tax revenue for the government
The mining sector is very dynamic. The price of rutile peaked in 2012 at around US$2,500 a tonne but has since slipped back to around US$1,000 a tonne. These fluctuations in price affect cashflow, and Sierra Rutile has to regularly update its strategic business plans to reflect the changing market price of products as a result. The sector is a major contributor to the Sierra Leone economy, creating jobs for many Sierra Leoneans and generating significant tax revenue for the government.
Obtaining ACCA membership was a major milestone in my life and my biggest achievement. The ACCA Qualification has given me sound knowledge of accounting and finance, contributing significantly to my career growth. I have been promoted twice in the past five years. When you are an ACCA member, organisations value you because they know you can deliver.
I have worked in management accounting, headed up treasury and assisted in preparing year-end financial reports. My main career goal is to head the finance department of a major institution within the next three years.
I enjoy travelling. It teaches you a lot; you meet people, interact with them and learn from them. You also get exposed to new cultures. The experience of travelling goes a long way in shaping one’s life and career. I also enjoy watching and playing football.