Job Description

Group Operational Accountant (Mid-Level)

Location: Paulshof, Johannesburg

Employment type: Permanent, full-time

Start date: As soon as possible

Salary: R25,000–R30,000 per month

About the position

An established and diversified group of companies is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Group Operational Accountant to join its Group Finance team based in Paulshof, Johannesburg.

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the accounting functions of allocated group entities, from daily transaction processing and reconciliations through to month-end reporting and the preparation of financial information.

This is an excellent opportunity for a mid-level accounting professional looking to develop their career within a dynamic, multi-company environment. The position involves working closely with the Group Financial Manager and supporting the financial operations of various business entities.

Key responsibilities

General accounting

• Manage day-to-day accounting transactions for allocated group entities.
• Maintain accurate general ledger accounts and accounting records.
• Process journals, accruals and prepayments.
• Review transactions processed by junior bookkeeping staff.
• Investigate and resolve accounting discrepancies.
• Ensure compliance with internal financial controls and approval procedures.

Creditors and debtors management

• Oversee accounts payable and receivable processes.
• Review supplier invoices and supporting documentation.
• Perform supplier statement reconciliations.
• Monitor outstanding debtors and review age analysis reports.
• Follow up on overdue accounts and resolve customer queries.
• Ensure accurate allocation of receipts and payments.
• Prepare supplier payment schedules for approval.

Bank and balance sheet reconciliations

• Perform monthly bank reconciliations.
• Reconcile company credit cards and cash accounts.
• Prepare intercompany reconciliations across group entities.
• Maintain accurate balance sheet reconciliations.
• Investigate and resolve outstanding reconciling items.
• Ensure financial balances are supported by appropriate documentation.

Month-end reporting and management accounts

• Manage month-end accounting procedures for allocated entities.
• Prepare monthly trial balances and supporting schedules.
• Assist with the preparation of monthly management accounts.
• Prepare accrual, prepayment and fixed asset schedules.
• Identify unusual financial movements and variances.
• Ensure financial information is accurate and submitted within reporting deadlines.
• Provide financial information and reports to the Group Financial Manager.

VAT and tax compliance

• Assist with VAT reconciliations and return preparation.
• Review tax invoices for accuracy and compliance.
• Maintain supporting documentation for SARS requirements.
• Assist with PAYE and other statutory reconciliations.
• Identify and escalate potential tax compliance issues.

Group finance and audit support

• Perform intercompany reconciliations and ensure accurate recording of transactions.
• Assist with group consolidation schedules and financial reporting.
• Support annual audit preparation and financial statement schedules.
• Provide financial information for budgeting and forecasting.
• Maintain accurate financial records across allocated entities.
• Liaise with suppliers, customers, auditors and relevant stakeholders.

Junior bookkeeper support

• Provide guidance and support to junior bookkeeping staff.
• Review bookkeeping entries for accuracy and completeness.
• Assist with the correct processing of invoices, receipts and payments.
• Monitor outstanding accounting tasks and deadlines.
• Promote accurate financial record-keeping practices.

Minimum qualifications and experience

• Diploma or degree in Accounting, Finance or a related field.
• CIMA or SAIPA qualification, or currently studying towards either professional designation.
• Approximately 3 years of relevant accounting experience.
• Strong understanding of double-entry accounting principles.
• Practical experience with general ledger, bank, creditors and debtors reconciliations.
• Working knowledge of VAT and South African tax compliance.
• Good Microsoft Excel skills.
• Experience using Sage, Xero or similar accounting software.
• Good written and verbal communication skills in English and Afrikaans.

Advantageous experience

• Experience working within a group of companies or multi-entity finance environment.
• Exposure to intercompany accounting and reconciliations.
• Experience preparing monthly management accounts.
• Experience with month-end financial reporting.
• Exposure to group consolidation schedules.
• Experience supporting or reviewing the work of junior bookkeepers.

Personal attributes

• Highly organised with excellent attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Able to work independently and take ownership of responsibilities.
• Professional, reliable and accountable.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
• Able to prioritise tasks and meet reporting deadlines.
• Proactive in identifying financial discrepancies and operational risks.
• Willing to learn, develop professionally and contribute to business growth.

Remuneration and benefits

A competitive salary package will be offered based on qualifications and experience.

After six months of employment, the company provides the following fully employer-funded benefits:

• Provident fund contribution of 7.5% of salary.
• Disability cover.
• Risk and funeral cover.