Senior Accountant

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Matric / Grade 12 certificate.
• Bachelor’s Degree or Diploma in Accounting, Finance or a related field.
• Completed SAICA, SAIPA or equivalent articles will be advantageous.
• Minimum 5-8 years’ relevant experience within an accounting environment, preferably within an accounting practice.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles, practices and financial reporting requirements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Word and Outlook.
• Experience with accounting and financial software such as Sage, Xero, Syft, Draftworx or similar platforms.
• Previous experience reviewing junior staff members’ work.
• Proven ability to manage multiple clients, priorities and accounting deadlines.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare and review accurate annual financial statements and management reports.
• Review bank, debtors, creditors and other account reconciliations.
• Maintain and review accurate general ledger accounts and accounting records.
• Oversee VAT, PAYE and other statutory submissions.
• Manage monthly, quarterly and annual accounting deadlines across the client portfolio.
• Assist with audit preparation and liaise with auditors where required.
• Review accounting work completed by Junior Accountants and provide constructive feedback.
• Train, mentor and provide ongoing support to junior team members.
• Ensure client accounting records comply with relevant accounting standards, regulatory requirements and company policies.
• Manage client communication and professionally resolve accounting-related queries.
• Identify and address discrepancies, accounting issues and areas requiring corrective action.
• Assist management with workflow planning, workload allocation and improving operational efficiency.
• Monitor outstanding client information and ensure deadlines are consistently met.
• Perform ad hoc accounting and administrative duties as required.

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

• Strong leadership, decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent numerical and analytical skills.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and consistently meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently while effectively contributing to and managing a team environment.
• Professional verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong client service and relationship management skills.
• Ability to mentor, develop and support junior team members.
• Proactive, professional and dependable approach.
• Strong ability to prioritise workloads and manage multiple client requirements simultaneously.