Commercial Accountant

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 520,000 - 850,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Medical aid coverage

Provident fund

Staff discounts

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Commercial Accountant in Cape Town to deliver monthly management accounts, variance commentary, and budgeting support. You will partner with diverse business units, analyze profitability, and drive cost efficiency.

The role requires 3–5 years in commercial accounting, proficiency in SAP/Oracle, and advanced Excel, with a preference for retail sector experience. Based in Cape Town, you will contribute to accurate reporting and financial strategy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in a commercial accounting or financial analysis role.
• Experience with SAP/Oracle and advanced Excel.
• Retail sector experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Prepare monthly management accounts with variance analysis and commentary.
• Assist in budgeting and forecasting for assigned units.
• Develop relationships with business partners and provide financial guidance.
• Analyze sales performance, profitability, and cost drivers to identify trends.
• Reconcile balance sheet accounts and ensure accurate financial records.
• Support audits with documentation and explanations.
• Assist in improving accounting systems and processes.
• Analyze pricing strategies, promotions, and product profitability.
• Contribute to improving financial reporting tools and processes.
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards and policies.

Skills

Variance analysis

Financial reporting

Advanced Excel

Stakeholder communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting

CIMA/ACCA/SAICA (near completion)

Tools

SAP

Oracle

Microsoft Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading retail group, is actively seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Commercial Accountant to join their finance department in Cape Town, Western Cape . This role is crucial for providing insightful commercial analysis and supporting the financial operations of various business units. You will play a key part in driving profitability and ensuring financial accuracy across the organization. The ideal candidate will possess strong accounting skills coupled with a commercial mindset, enabling them to translate financial data into actionable business strategies. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a well-established company with a strong presence in the market and to further develop your accounting career in a dynamic environment. We are looking for a motivated professional who can effectively manage multiple tasks and deliver high-quality results.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare monthly management accounts, including variance analysis and commentary on financial performance.
• Assist in the budgeting and forecasting process for assigned business units.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with business partners, providing financial support and guidance.
• Analyze sales performance, profitability, and cost drivers to identify trends and opportunities.
• Reconcile balance sheet accounts and ensure the accuracy of financial records.
• Support internal and external audits by providing necessary documentation and explanations.
• Assist in the implementation and enhancement of accounting systems and processes.
• Calculate and analyze pricing strategies, promotional effectiveness, and new product profitability.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of financial reporting and analysis tools.
• Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards and company policies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a related field.
• Completed or near completion of a professional accounting qualification (e.g., CIMA, ACCA, SAICA) is highly advantageous.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a commercial accounting or financial analysis role.
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and advanced Excel skills.
• Strong understanding of management accounting principles and financial reporting.
• Excellent analytical skills with a keen eye for detail and accuracy.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, capable of liaising with stakeholders at all levels.
• Ability to manage time effectively and meet strict deadlines.
• Proactive and results-oriented with a strong work ethic.
• Experience in the retail sector is a plus.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Cape Town, Western Cape .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a performance-based bonus.
• The company provides a comprehensive medical aid plan and a provident fund.
• There are excellent opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Staff discounts are available on company products.
• The work environment is collaborative and supportive.
• This role is based in Cape Town, Western Cape .