Assistant Accountant

Recruitment Matters; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

Recruitment Matters is seeking an experienced accounting professional in South Africa, requiring a Diploma or Degree in Accounting or Finance and a minimum of 3 years' experience in the field. The role involves managing daily reconciliations, processing invoices, and maintaining financial records.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate advanced skills in Microsoft Excel and have experience with accounting software like Xero or SAP. Strong communication skills are essential for liaising with various departments and ensuring compliance with financial controls.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years' experience in an accounting or bookkeeping environment.
• Experience with accounting software such as Xero, Sage, SAP, Oracle, or similar.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel proficiency.
• Knowledge of VAT regulations and financial reporting requirements.
• Experience supporting audits, tax submissions, and month-end processes.

Responsibilities

• Complete daily bank, cash office, and account reconciliations.
• Process invoices, journals, accruals, and accounting adjustments accurately.
• Prepare supplier, VAT, and balance sheet reconciliations and resolve outstanding items.
• Investigate discrepancies between operational and accounting systems.
• Maintain accurate financial records and supporting documentation.
• Assist with month-end and year-end reporting processes.
• Support audit, tax, and statutory compliance requirements.
• Maintain and update fixed asset registers and capital expenditure records.
• Liaise with finance teams, auditors, tax consultants, and operational departments.
• Monitor financial controls and ensure compliance with company procedures.
• Prepare reports and schedules required by management.
• Identify opportunities to improve accounting processes and efficiencies.

Skills

Financial Accounting

Account Reconciliations

Bookkeeping

VAT Administration

Financial Controls and Compliance

ERP and Accounting Systems

Microsoft Excel (Advanced)

Data Analysis and Reporting

Problem-Solving and Investigation

Attention to Detail

Time Management

Communication Skills

Record Keeping and Documentation

Stakeholder Management

Education

Diploma or Degree in Accounting, Finance, Bookkeeping, or related field

Tools

Xero

Sage

SAP

Oracle

Job description

Key Requirements

• Diploma or Degree in Accounting, Finance, Bookkeeping, or a related field
• Minimum 3 years' experience in an accounting, bookkeeping, or finance role
• Experience with high-volume transaction processing and reconciliations
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles, VAT, and financial controls
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills essential
• Experience using accounting systems such as Xero, Sage, SAP, Oracle, or similar ERP platforms
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and confidentiality
• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills

Key Responsibilities

• Complete daily bank, cash office, and account reconciliations
• Process invoices, journals, accruals, and accounting adjustments accurately
• Prepare supplier, VAT, and balance sheet reconciliations and resolve outstanding items
• Investigate discrepancies between operational and accounting systems
• Maintain accurate financial records and supporting documentation
• Assist with month-end and year-end reporting processes
• Support audit, tax, and statutory compliance requirements
• Maintain and update fixed asset registers and capital expenditure records
• Liaise with finance teams, auditors, tax consultants, and operational departments
• Monitor financial controls and ensure compliance with company procedures
• Prepare reports and schedules required by management
• Identify opportunities to improve accounting processes and efficiencies

Key Skills

• Financial Accounting
• Account Reconciliations
• Bookkeeping
• VAT Administration
• Financial Controls and Compliance
• ERP and Accounting Systems
• Microsoft Excel (Advanced)
• Data Analysis and Reporting
• Problem-Solving and Investigation
• Attention to Detail
• Time Management
• Communication Skills
• Record Keeping and Documentation
• Stakeholder Management

Qualifications

• Diploma or Degree in Accounting, Finance, Bookkeeping, or related field
• Minimum 3 years' experience in an accounting or bookkeeping environment
• Experience with accounting software such as Xero, Sage, SAP, Oracle, or similar
• Advanced Microsoft Excel proficiency
• Knowledge of VAT regulations and financial reporting requirements
• Experience supporting audits, tax submissions, and month-end processes
• Exposure to multi-currency, cash office, or cross-border operations advantageous
• Experience working with auditors, tax consultants, or statutory reporting advantageous