Bookkeeper

Outsourced CFO; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 250,000 - 350,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial services provider is seeking a Bookkeeper in Cape Town, South Africa. The role involves maintaining financial records, processing payroll, and ensuring compliance with tax regulations. The ideal candidate has 3-5 years of bookkeeping experience, proficiency in accounting software like Xero or Pastel, and strong organisational skills. This full-time position requires attention to detail and integrity while offering the opportunity to contribute to smooth business operations.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of bookkeeping experience, preferably in retail or FMCG.
• Knowledge of payroll processing and SARS submissions.
• Strong understanding of VAT, accounts payable/receivable, and reconciliations.

Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate financial records and reconcile transactions.
• Process supplier and customer invoices timely.
• Prepare and submit VAT returns accurately.

Skills

Attention to detail

Organisational skills

Integrity

Education

Relevant bookkeeping or accounting qualification/certification

Tools

Xero

Pastel

Job description

Job Description
We are recruiting on behalf of our client in the premium retail industry for a Bookkeeper to join their team. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, deadline-driven, and operates with integrity. You will play an important role in ensuring the accuracy of day-to-day financial records and supporting smooth business operations.

Our client values honesty, innovation, and fresh thinking. A friendly and collaborative approach, combined with strong organisational skills, will be key to success in this role.

Key Responsibilities;

Daily and Monthly Bookkeeping

• Maintain accurate financial records, including capturing and reconciling transactions in the accounting system.
• Process supplier invoices, customer invoices, and credit notes.
• Reconcile bank statements, credit cards, and petty cash on a regular basis.
• Manage accounts payable and accounts receivable functions, ensuring timely follow-ups on outstanding amounts.

Cash Flow and Payment Processing

• Prepare and process supplier and other payments according to agreed terms.
• Monitor cash flow and flag any potential shortfalls.
• Process foreign payments in line with company procedures.

Inventory and Procurement Support

• Reconcile inventory transactions and assist in resolving discrepancies.
• Work with the procurement team to match purchase orders, goods received notes, and supplier invoices.

Payroll and SARS Compliance

• Prepare and process monthly payroll in line with statutory requirements.
• Ensure accurate submission of PAYE, UIF, and SDL returns to SARS.
• Assist with EMP501 reconciliations and preparation of IRP5 certificates.

VAT and Tax Support

• Prepare and submit VAT returns accurately and on time.
• Maintain records required for audits and statutory compliance.

Month-End Assistance

• Assist with month-end journals, reconciliations, and reporting.
• Support the Finance Manager/Accountant in preparing management accounts.

General Administration and Internal Controls

• Maintain organised financial filing systems (digital and physical).
• Support implementation and adherence to internal controls.
• Liaise with suppliers, customers, and service providers as needed.

Requirements

Experience:

• 3-5 years of bookkeeping experience (retail or FMCG environment advantageous).
• Experience working with accounting software (Xero, Pastel, or similar).
• Knowledge of payroll processing and SARS submissions.
• Good understanding of VAT, accounts payable/receivable, and reconciliations.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work to deadlines.

• Location: Cape Town, South Africa - On-site, Full-Time.
• Relevant bookkeeping or accounting qualification/certification preferred.
• Strong organisational skills, honesty, and discretion in handling financial data.

Skills and or Characteristics;

• Demonstrates honesty, trustworthiness, and discretion in managing financial and sensitive operational data
• Ability to perform effectively under pressure, especially during month-end and audit periods.
• Comfortable and adept at working across multiple regions and handling various currencies.
• Strong financial modeling, forecasting, and scenario analysis skills with the ability to guide strategic business decisions.