Senior Accountant

Centre Recruit Consultants; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 500,000; Full time

Job summary

A financial consulting firm in South Africa is seeking a Senior Bookkeeper to manage full accounting functions, including general ledger maintenance, payroll processing, and financial reporting. The ideal candidate will have at least 8 years of bookkeeping or accounting experience, proficiency in accounting software like Xero and Sage, and strong analytical skills. This role offers opportunities for team leadership and requires high accuracy and attention to detail in financial processing.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years in bookkeeping or accounting roles.
• Strong working knowledge of accounting software is essential.
• High level of accuracy and thoroughness in financial processing.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and reconcile the general ledger for accurate financial records.
• Oversee invoicing, billing, and collections for timely processing.
• Prepare and execute payroll, including deductions and benefits.

Skills

Attention to Detail

Analytical Ability

Communication Skills

Problem-Solving

Team Leadership

Education

Diploma or degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

Relevant certifications (e.g., AAT, CPA, ACCA)

Tools

Xero

Sage Pastel

Microsoft Excel

Sage VIP

Job description

Job Description

The Senior Bookkeeper will be responsible for the full accounting function, including general ledger maintenance, payroll processing, bank reconciliations, and preparation of financial reports. This role requires a high level of accuracy, strong organisational skills, and the ability to lead a small finance team.

Key Responsibilities

• General Ledger Management: Maintain and reconcile the general ledger to ensure accurate and complete financial records.
• Accounts Payable & Receivable: Oversee invoicing, billing, and collections, ensuring timely processing and follow‑up.
• Bank Reconciliations: Conduct regular reconciliations of bank and credit card statements.
• Payroll Processing: Prepare and execute payroll, including deductions, benefits, and statutory submissions (where applicable).
• Month-End & Year-End Closings: Lead or support financial period‑end closings and prepare necessary supporting documentation.
• Financial Reporting: Generate financial statements such as income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports for internal use.
• Audit Support: Coordinate with external auditors by providing required documentation and addressing audit queries.
• Compliance & Tax: Ensure adherence to applicable financial regulations and assist with tax‑related processes.
• Team Support: Supervise junior finance staff and maintain efficient workflows within the department.
• Communication Liaison: Act as a key point of contact between the finance team and senior management.

Requirements

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum 8 years in bookkeeping or accounting roles.
• Education: Diploma or degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field preferred. Relevant certifications (e.g., AAT, CPA, ACCA) are advantageous.
• Software Proficiency: Strong working knowledge of accounting software such as Xero, Sage Pastel, Microsoft Excel, and Sage VIP.
• Analytical Ability: Competence in analysing financial data and drawing meaningful insights.
• Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and thoroughness in financial processing.
• Communication Skills: Clear verbal and written communication; ability to explain financial matters effectively.
• Problem-Solving: Proactive in identifying issues and implementing effective solutions.
• Team Leadership: Ability to oversee and guide team members, ensuring performance and efficiency.

Benefits

To be discussed in the interview