Financial Accountant (CIMA / SAICA)

University of Fort Hare; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Fort Hare is seeking a Financial Accountant to join their team in Stellenbosch. The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance, CIMA/SAICA qualification, and 5 years of relevant experience. Responsibilities include preparing financial reports, maintaining ledgers, and ensuring compliance with tax regulations. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and familiarity with Xero accounting software are advantageous. This role offers an exciting opportunity for professional growth in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• 5 years’ relevant experience in a financial accounting role.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles and financial reporting.
• Experience in manufacturing and/or agricultural environments is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports.
• Ensure compliance with IFRS for SME and relevant accounting standards.
• Maintain the general ledger and ensure accurate reconciliations.
• Monitor and manage accounts payable and receivable functions.

Skills

Accounting principles and financial reporting

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel

Cost accounting

Logical and critical data analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance

CIMA/SAICA qualification

Tools

Xero accounting software

Meshed ERP systems

Job description

My client, a well established fruit exporter is looking for a Financial Accountant (CIMA or SAICA) to join their team. The ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field and 5 years’ relevant experience in a financial accounting role.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance
• CIMA/SAICA qualification required
• 5 years’ relevant experience in a financial accounting role
• Strong understanding of accounting principles and financial reporting
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel with specific requirements for pivot tables, automated integration and advanced functions.

Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Accounting

• Assist in preparing monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports (Management accounts, AFS and taxation)
• Ensure compliance with IFRS for SME and relevant accounting standards
• Maintain the general ledger and ensure accurate reconciliations
• Process and review journal entries, accruals, and provisions

Accounts & Reconciliations

• Perform bank, creditor, and debtor reconciliations
• Monitor and manage accounts payable and receivable functions
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of transactions

Budgeting & Forecasting

• Assist in the preparation of budgets and financial forecasts
• Analyse variances between actual and budgeted results
• Provide insights and recommendations to management

Compliance & Controls

• Ensure compliance with tax regulations (VAT, PAYE, income tax)
• Assist with audits and liaise with external auditors
• Maintain and improve internal financial controls

Systems & Process Improvement

• Utilise accounting systems effectively (e.g., Xero)
• Support operational systems
• Identify and implement process improvements for efficiency

Cost Accounting

• Effective cost accounting
• Analysing scenarios to enhance profitability
• Logical and critical data analysis

Advantageous Experience

• Experience in manufacturing and/or agricultural environments
• Familiarity with Xero accounting software
• Experience with Meshed ERP systems or warehousing systems
• Exposure to inventory accounting and cost accounting

Additional Information

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Commitment to continuous improvement and professional development