Junior Accountant

Datafin; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 250,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading AgriTech company in Johannesburg seeks a Junior Accountant to assist the Finance Manager in various financial functions. The role encompasses responsibilities from financial processing to client management, and requires at least a Bachelor’s degree in Finance or Accounting, with advanced degrees preferred. Candidates with professional certifications like SAICA, SAIPA, or CIMA will have an advantage. This position offers the opportunity to grow in a dynamic start-up environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting or related field required.
• Professional certifications like SAICA, SAIPA, or CIMA are advantageous.
• Experience with financial software and regulations in South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Assist with preparation of financial reports and management packs.
• Support month-end and year-end financial processes.
• Conduct basic financial analyses for informed decision-making.

Skills

Problem-solving

Organizational abilities

Numerical skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelors in Finance or Accounting

Honours or Postgraduate Diploma in finance-related field

Tools

Xero

Microsoft Excel

Job description

ENVIRONMENT:

A leading AgriTech company with offices in Johannesburg and Stellenbosch is looking to appoint a Junior Accountant to support the Finance Manager in executing a broad range of finance department functions. In line with the dynamic nature of a start-up environment, responsibilities will be varied and may include everything from financial processing to client relationship management. Minimum requirements include a Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field, with preference given to candidates holding an Honours degree or Postgraduate Diploma. Professional certifications such as SAICA, SAIPA, or CIMA are highly advantageous.

DUTIES:

Financial Support and Analysis

• Assist with the preparation of financial management packs and reports, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements
• Support month-end and year-end close processes
• Conduct basic financial analysis to support informed decision-making by senior finance staff

Budgeting and Forecasting Support

• Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and periodic financial forecasts
• Maintain budgeting tools, databases, and records

Data Management

• Ensure accurate and timely data entry into the company’s accounting system (Xero)
• Maintain financial databases, software systems, and manual filing systems

Compliance and Internal Control

• Support the finance department’s efforts to comply with regulatory requirements
• Assist with documentation and monitoring of internal controls

Cash Flow Assistance

• Help manage day-to-day cash flow by tracking transactions and reviewing reports regularly

Accounts Receivable and Payable

• Assist in managing accounts receivable and payable
• Process invoices, monitor incoming payments, process receipts, and manage payments to suppliers

Financial Policies and Procedures

• Contribute to the development and implementation of financial policies and procedures to enhance efficiency and ensure data accuracy

Reporting and Documentation

• Prepare and maintain financial documentation and reports for both internal and external stakeholders

Team Collaboration

• Work cross-functionally with other departments on financial planning and analysis
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to financial strategy discussions

Professional Development

• Engage in ongoing learning to stay current with financial regulations, trends, and best practices

Special Projects

• Assist with special initiatives such as capital raises, implementation of new technologies, or financial regulatory research

REQUIREMENTS:

Formal Qualifications

• Bachelors in Finance, Accounting
• Honours or Postgraduate Diploma in a finance-related field
• Professional Certifications: SAICA/SAIPA/CIMA

Knowledge, Competencies, and Skills

• Proficiency in financial software such as Xero
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel
• Solid understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (GAAP) in South Africa
• Familiarity with South African financial regulations, tax laws, and financial reporting standards
• Practical Experience: For a junior role, less than two years of relevant experience is required, whereas an intermediate role requires 2-5 years of experience within a finance department.
• Internships and Traineeships: Experience gained through internships, learnerships, or traineeships, especially those that are relevant to finance or accounting, can be particularly valuable.
• Experience in the agriculture and technology sectors is advantageous.

ATTRIBUTES:

• Excellent problem-solving and organizational abilities
• Proven ability to work collaboratively within a team and across departments
• Strong numerical and analytical skills
• Effective communication and influencing skills across all organizational levels
• Ability to perform well under pressure
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English
• Strong internal client relationship-building capabilities
• Exceptional attention to detail
• Experience with INCO terms (desirable)
• High level of ownership and accountability
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Logical and analytical approach to problem-solving
• A go-getter that can grow with the company

While we would really like to respond to every application, should you not be contacted for this position within 10 working days please consider your application unsuccessful.

COMMENTS:

When applying for jobs, ensure that you have the minimum job requirements. Only SA Citizens will be considered for this role. If you are not in the mentioned location of any of the jobs, please note your relocation plans in all applications for jobs and correspondence. Apply here[URL Removed] e-mail a Word copy of your CV to [Email Address Removed] and mention the reference number of the job.

Desired Skills:

• Junior
• Accountant
• JHB