Senior Accountant

Werfnet; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 279,000 - 424,000; Full time

Job summary

Werfnet in Somerset West seeks an experienced Senior Accountant to oversee accounting for a portfolio of clients, review financial information, ensure statutory compliance and mentor juniors. 5–8 years in accounting is preferred.

Strong technical knowledge and ability to work independently with deadlines and client relationships are essential. Proficiency in accounting software and MS Office is required for daily duties.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or Diploma in Accounting, Finance or related field.
• 5–8 years’ experience in an accounting environment, preferably in an accounting practice.
• Completed SAICA, SAIPA or equivalent articles advantageous.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles and financial reporting requirements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel, Word and Outlook.
• Experience with Sage, Xero, Syft, Draftworx or similar platforms.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and review annual financial statements and management reports.
• Review bank, debtors, creditors and other account reconciliations.
• Maintain and review general ledger accounts and records.
• Oversee VAT, PAYE and other statutory submissions.
• Manage deadlines across the client portfolio.
• Assist with audit preparation and liaise with auditors.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical

Deadline-driven

Client relations

Mentoring

Independent work

Education

Bachelor’s degree or diploma in accounting/finance

SAICA/SAIPA articles completed

Tools

Sage

Xero

Syft

Draftworx

Job description

Location: Somerset West
Salary: R25,000 – R38,000 per month, depending on qualifications, knowledge and experience

POSITION OVERVIEW

An established accounting firm in Somerset West is seeking an experienced and technically strong Senior Accountant to join their professional team. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing accounting functions for a portfolio of clients, reviewing financial information, ensuring statutory compliance, and providing guidance and support to junior team members.
The ideal candidate will have 5–8 years’ experience within an accounting environment, strong technical accounting knowledge, and the ability to work independently while taking responsibility for reviewing work, managing deadlines and maintaining strong client relationships.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Matric / Grade 12 certificate.
• Bachelor’s Degree or Diploma in Accounting, Finance or a related field.
• Completed SAICA, SAIPA or equivalent articles will be advantageous.
• Minimum 5–8 years’ relevant experience within an accounting environment, preferably within an accounting practice.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles, practices and financial reporting requirements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Word and Outlook.
• Experience with accounting and financial software such as Sage, Xero, Syft, Draftworx or similar platforms.
• Previous experience reviewing junior staff members’ work.
• Proven ability to manage multiple clients, priorities and accounting deadlines.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare and review accurate annual financial statements and management reports.
• Review bank, debtors, creditors and other account reconciliations.
• Maintain and review accurate general ledger accounts and accounting records.
• Oversee VAT, PAYE and other statutory submissions.
• Manage monthly, quarterly and annual accounting deadlines across the client portfolio.
• Assist with audit preparation and liaise with auditors where required.
• Review accounting work completed by Junior Accountants and provide constructive feedback.
• Train, mentor and provide ongoing support to junior team members.
• Ensure client accounting records comply with relevant accounting standards, regulatory requirements and company policies.
• Manage client communication and professionally resolve accounting-related queries.
• Identify and address discrepancies, accounting issues and areas requiring corrective action.
• Assist management with workflow planning, workload allocation and improving operational efficiency.
• Monitor outstanding client information and ensure deadlines are consistently met.
• Perform ad hoc accounting and administrative duties as required.

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

• Strong leadership, decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent numerical and analytical skills.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and consistently meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently while effectively contributing to and managing a team environment.
• Professional verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong client service and relationship management skills.
• Ability to mentor, develop and support junior team members.
• Proactive, professional and dependable approach.
• Strong ability to prioritise workloads and manage multiple client requirements simultaneously.