Assistant Accountant

Surgo PTY Ltd; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a detail-oriented finance professional to support the Finance Manager in overseeing core accounting operations. This pivotal role involves managing Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable processes, ensuring accurate financial reporting, and driving process improvements. The ideal candidate will have a BCom degree in Finance or be part-qualified (CIMA), with 3-5 years of relevant experience. Join a dynamic finance environment where your contributions will enhance operational efficiency and financial integrity, all while working collaboratively across departments to achieve excellence.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in accounting, particularly in AP and AR.
• Good understanding of financial reporting and accounting systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable functions.
• Ensure timely payments and accurate customer invoicing.
• Support month-end and year-end close processes.

Skills

Accounting Principles

Accounts Payable

Accounts Receivable

Excel Proficiency

Attention to Detail

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Process Improvement Mindset

Education

BCom degree in Finance

CIMA or equivalent (part-qualified)

Tools

Xero

Sage

Job description

Job Description :

This is a key role supporting the Finance Manager / Head of Finance in overseeing core accounting operations, ensuring accurate financial reporting, and improving process efficiency—particularly across Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, and Month-end processes.

Key Responsibilities :

1. Accounts Payable (AP) :
2. Oversee the full AP function, including review and approval of supplier invoices entered by the Junior Accounts Assistant.
3. Ensure timely and accurate payments to suppliers in line with agreed terms.
4. Review and approve coding, manage the AP ledger, and ensure completeness and accuracy of records.
5. Perform regular supplier statement reconciliations and investigate/resolving discrepancies.
6. Maintain the AP ledger, ensuring completeness and accuracy.
7. Manage the aged creditors report and support cash flow forecasting related to payables.
8. Act as the primary contact for supplier queries and escalations.

1. Accounts Receivable (AR) :
2. Oversee customer invoicing, ensuring accuracy and timely billing.
3. Monitor debtor balances and proactively follow up on overdue accounts.
4. Allocate customer receipts and manage the AR ledger.
5. Perform regular reconciliations and investigate variances.
6. Liaise with Operations teams to resolve billing or payment issues.
7. Support month-end and year-end close processes, including journal entries, accruals, and prepayments.
8. Prepare and maintain balance sheet reconciliations, including AP/AR sub-ledgers, bank accounts, and control accounts.
9. Collaborate with external accountants to prepare monthly management accounts, providing supporting schedules and reconciliations.
10. Identify and implement process improvements across AP, AR, and general accounting workflows.
11. Support external accountants in VAT return preparation and external audits.
12. Provide guidance to junior finance staff to build team capability.
13. Assist the Head of Finance or Finance Manager with ad hoc tasks or projects.

Requirements :

• BCom degree in Finance or part-qualified (CIMA or equivalent), actively studying.
• Minimum 3-5 years of relevant experience in accounting, including AP and AR.
• Good understanding of accounting principles and financial reporting.
• Proficiency in Excel and experience with accounting systems (e.g., Xero or Sage).
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational, and time-management skills.
• Proactive, adaptable, with a mindset for continuous improvement.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for cross-department liaison.
• Ability to work independently and aspire to grow within a dynamic finance environment.

Salary : Market Related

Working Hours : Mon–Fri 08:00–17:00

Surgo (Pty) Ltd is committed to Employment Equity and encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, including people with disabilities. Due to high application volumes, feedback may take up to three months. Surgo (Pty) Ltd is a member of APSO and does not charge application fees. Your CV will be stored for future opportunities; to opt out, email [e-mail].