Qualified Accountant

People Dimension; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 650 000 - 850 000; Full time

Job summary

A financial services firm in Pretoria seeks an experienced Accounting Manager responsible for overseeing client portfolios and ensuring regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate will lead accounting and tax processes, supervise junior staff, and enhance client relationships. Strong skills in risk management and financial reporting are essential. The role includes managing payroll and VAT compliance, while also contributing to business development. This is an excellent opportunity for a proactive financial professional looking to make an impact.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Flexible working hours

Qualifications

• Proven experience in managing accounting portfolios and compliance with tax laws.
• Ability to supervise and mentor junior staff effectively.
• Strong skills in client relationship management and business development.

Responsibilities

• Manage accounting deadlines and compliance for diverse clients.
• Supervise junior staff and foster professional development.
• Act as the main contact point for clients to understand their business needs.

Skills

Client relationship management

Supervision and mentorship

Risk identification

Compliance with regulations

Process improvement

Education

Relevant accounting qualification

Tools

Accounting software

Job description

• Lead and Manage Accounting portfolio: Plan, execute, and manage accounting deadlines for a diverse range of clients across various industries, ensuring compliance with various Tax Acts and Companies Act.
• Supervise and Mentor Junior Staff: Manage and provide guidance to SAIPA accountants and SAIPA trainees, overseeing their work, offering mentorship, and fostering their professional development.
• Client Relationship Management: Act as the main point of contact for clients, building and maintaining strong relationships while understanding their business needs and delivering tailored audit solutions.
• Review and Quality Control: Review the work of juniors, ensuring all client files, reports, records, and financial statements meet the firm’s quality standards and adhere to regulatory requirements.
• Risk Identification and Mitigation: Identify client risks and internal control issues, recommending practical solutions to mitigate risks and improve clients’ financial operations.
• Budget and Resource Management: Oversee the efficient allocation of resources, manage accounting budgets/targets, and ensure accounting work is completed within the agreed timelines and financial parameters.
• Ensure Compliance with Regulations: Stay up to date with changes in tax laws, auditing standards (ISA), and other regulatory requirements, ensuring audits are compliant with the latest legislation.
• Contribute to Business Development: Assist senior management in identifying new business opportunities, preparing client proposals, and expanding existing client relationships.
• Process Improvement and Efficiency: Continuously assess and enhance internal audit processes, identifying areas for improvement to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve client service.
• Oversee Monthly Accounting Processes: Ensure the timely and accurate processing of all financial transactions, including reconciling accounts, updating ledgers, and preparing month‑end closing entries in compliance with accounting principles and firm policies.
• Prepare Monthly Management Accounts: Compile, analyse, and present monthly management accounts, providing detailed insights into the firm’s financial performance. Collaborate with the Director to highlight trends, variances, and recommendations for improvement.
• Manage VAT Compliance: Ensure the accurate calculation and submission of VAT returns, maintaining compliance with South African VAT regulations. Handle VAT disputes and inquiries, liaising with SARS as necessary.
• Administer Payroll Processing: Process the firm’s monthly payroll, ensuring accurate calculation of employee salaries, benefits, and statutory deductions, including PAYE, UIF, and other relevant taxes. Ensure timely submission of payroll taxes and compliance with tax regulations.
• Oversee Payroll Taxes: Ensure correct withholding, calculation, and submission of payroll taxes, including PAYE and UIF, in line with SARS regulations. Provide support during tax audits or queries related to payroll taxes.
• Manage Income and Provisional Tax: Ensure accurate calculation and timely submission of income tax returns and provisional tax payments. Stay up to date with changes in income tax laws and regulations to ensure ongoing compliance.
• Handle SARS Processes (Disputes and Registrations): Manage SARS‑related processes, including tax registrations, submissions, and disputes. Serve as the primary point of contact for any tax‑related issues, liaising with SARS to resolve discrepancies and ensure compliance.
• Ensure Statutory Compliance: Oversee and ensure compliance with statutory filing requirements such as CIPC (Companies and Intellectual Property Commission) filings, Ufiling, and beneficial ownership records. Maintain up‑to‑date corporate governance and regulatory filings.
• Provide Financial Reporting Support: Assist the Director with preparing financial statements, budgeting, and forecasting. Provide timely and accurate financial reports that support business decision‑making and strategic planning.
• Contribute to Process Improvement: Identify areas of improvement within the accounting and financial processes, suggesting and implementing strategies to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall financial reporting.
• Ad Hoc Accounting Tasks: Assist with various financial and accounting duties as required by the Director, including year‑end financial reporting, audits, and other special projects.
• Ensure Compliance with Regulatory Changes: Stay informed on changes in accounting standards, tax laws, and statutory regulations to ensure all accounting and tax processes are compliant with the latest legislative updates.