COST ACCOUNTANT

SUMMARY:
COST ACCOUNTANT
Worcester, Western CapeOur client, an established business operating in the transport and logistics industry, is seeking an experienced and commercially minded Cost Accountant to join its finance team in Worcester.Reporting to the Financial Manager, the successful candidate will be responsible for supporting the financial accounting and control function, maintaining accurate financial records, strengthening internal controls and contributing to improved financial reporting and operational efficiencies.The role also offers an opportunity to contribute to the integration and automation of financial systems and processes. Candidates with an interest in technology, artificial intelligence (AI) and process automation will be particularly well suited.

POSITION INFO:
PURPOSE OF THE ROLE To support the effective management of the financial accounting function, with a focus on general ledger management, reconciliations, financial reporting, cost control and the continuous improvement of financial systems and processes. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Prepare, process and review general ledger journals and monthly reconciliations. Maintain accurate accounting records and investigate financial discrepancies. Manage supplier reconciliations, creditors-related transactions and payment allocations. Perform monthly bank reconciliations and review outstanding reconciling items. Review and process diesel adjustments and related cost reconciliations. Prepare and load supplier payments for authorisation, ensuring compliance with internal controls. Assist with cash flow monitoring and short-term cash flow projections. Support the preparation of monthly management accounts, financial schedules and reports. Assist with budget preparation, expense monitoring and variance analysis. Analyse costs and investigate significant variances to support effective financial and operational control. Prepare audit schedules and supporting documentation for annual external audits. Assist with VAT reconciliations and statutory compliance requirements. Identify opportunities to improve financial processes, internal controls and operational efficiencies. Explore and implement opportunities for systems integration, workflow automation and the practical application of AI in financial processes. Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external service providers on system enhancements and process improvements. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Relevant tertiary qualification in Accounting, Finance or a related field. Completed accounting articles and\/or 3-5 years' relevant experience in a similar accounting or financial control position. Sound understanding of accounting principles, general ledger management and financial reconciliations. Strong Microsoft Excel skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office. Practical experience with accounting software or ERP systems. Strong analytical, organisational and problem-solving abilities. High level of accuracy and attention to detail. Ability to work independently, take ownership and meet deadlines. Good communication and interpersonal skills. High level of integrity, accountability and confidentiality. Willingness to embrace technology and contribute to continuous process improvement. ADVANTAGEOUS EXPERIENCE Experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. Working knowledge of Xero accounting software. Previous experience in the transport, logistics or related industry. Experience with management accounts, budgeting and cash flow forecasting. Exposure to external audits, VAT and financial compliance. Practical knowledge of AI tools and their application in accounting and finance. Experience with workflow automation and systems integration, particularly Microsoft Power Automate, Power Query or Power BI. Knowledge of APIs, data integration and automation tools. Experience developing automated financial reports, reconciliations or data-processing workflows. REMUNERATION: Market-related, depending on qualifications and experience. Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV via Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.