Senior Accountant

WatersEdge Solutions; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable accounting firm in Johannesburg is seeking a highly experienced Senior Accountant to manage a diverse client portfolio. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience in accounting and a Bachelor's degree in Accounting. Key responsibilities include bookkeeping, payroll compliance, and tax submissions. Strong proficiency in Xero is essential. This is an opportunity to work in a stable environment while maintaining long-term client relationships.

Benefits

Professional autonomy

Client-facing role

Support period guaranteed

Qualifications

• 10+ years’ experience in accounting within a professional practice environment.
• Proficiency in cloud accounting platforms (Xero essential; Sage advantageous).
• Strong experience in bookkeeping and management accounts.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of clients across different sectors with minimal supervision.
• Perform full-function bookkeeping to trial balance using Xero or Sage.
• Prepare and submit monthly management accounts, VAT returns, and payroll journals.

Skills

Tax compliance

Client relationship management

Bookkeeping

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting

CIMA, SAIPA or SAICA designation

Tools

Xero

Sage

Job description

Location: Johannesburg (On-site)

Employment Type: Full-Time

Industry: Accounting Practice | Tax Compliance | SME Advisory

WatersEdge Solutions is hiring a highly experienced Senior Accountant to join a growing, well-established advisory and accounting practice. This is a hands-on opportunity for a seasoned professional to take ownership of a diverse client portfolio, delivering full-spectrum accounting and tax services while maintaining long-term relationships with business owners and stakeholders.

About the Role

In this role, you’ll manage multiple client accounts across varied industries, handling all aspects of bookkeeping, payroll compliance, and tax submissions. You’ll serve as a key point of contact for your clients, offering practical support on cloud-based accounting tools and resolving SARS queries and audits with autonomy. If you\'re a confident and proactive accountant with a practice background, this is a dynamic space to apply your expertise.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of clients across different sectors with minimal supervision
• Perform full-function bookkeeping to trial balance using Xero or Sage
• Prepare and submit monthly management accounts, VAT returns, and payroll journals
• Reconcile EMP201 and EMP501 returns; ensure accurate IRP5 submissions
• Manage payroll tax compliance, including UIF, PAYE, and SDL
• Handle VAT and payroll SARS queries, audits, and disputes independently
• Maintain accurate tax records and accounting documentation
• Support clients with accounting system usage and financial guidance
• Build strong, long-term relationships through consistent, high-quality service

What You’ll Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a similar field (essential)
• 10+ years’ experience in accounting within a professional practice environment
• In-depth knowledge of VAT, PAYE, UIF, SDL, and SARS eFiling
• Strong experience in bookkeeping and management accounts
• Ability to manage and respond to SARS audits confidently
• CIMA, SAIPA, or SAICA designation (completed)
• Proficiency in cloud accounting platforms (Xero essential; Sage advantageous)
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to self-manage
• Strong communication skills and a client-centric approach
• Tech-savvy and comfortable in a dynamic, high-accountability environment

Nice to Have

• Experience with income tax submissions
• Familiarity with various client sectors, particularly SMEs
• Background working in a modern, cloud-first accounting practice

What’s On Offer

• Established, stable work environment with professional autonomy
• Client-facing role with relationship-building opportunities
• Close-knit, experienced team committed to service excellence
• Long-term placement with guaranteed initial support period

Company Culture

At WatersEdge Solutions, we partner with values-driven practices that prioritise professionalism, clarity, and practical client support. This is a team that values experience, initiative, and direct communication—where every accountant is trusted to own their work and deliver confidently.

If you have not been contacted within 10 working days, please consider your application unsuccessful.