Specialist Accountant: Group Financial Reporting

Sanlam; Bellville; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Job summary

Sanlam is a diversified financial services group with a footprint across Africa and beyond. We seek a CA(SA) with strong IFRS and management reporting experience to join our Group Finance team in South Africa.

You will support budgeting, MI reporting, IFRS reconciliations, and statutory reporting for Sanlam Limited and subsidiary entities, applying rigorous accounting standards and data analytics to deliver accurate financial insights.

Qualifications

• Qualified CA(SA) with 4–5 years in an accounting/financial environment.
• Insurance industry experience preferred.
• Experience with SAP and Hyperion Financial Management systems.
• Strong data analytics and presentation skills.
• Proficient in English written and verbal communication.

Responsibilities

• Support budgeting, MI reporting and group forecasting.
• Prepare MI sections and IFRS reconciliations.
• Process SAP journals and balance sheet controls.
• Coordinate statutory reporting for Sanlam Limited Group and subsidiaries.
• Maintain technical competence in IFRS and related accounting standards.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Time management

Teamwork

Education

CA (SA)

Tools

SAP

Hyperion Financial Management

Job description

Who are we?

Sanlam was established as a life insurance company in South Africa but has since transformed into a diversified financial services group that operates across the African continent, India, Malaysia and selected developed markets, with listings on the Johannesburg, A2X and Namibian Securities Stock exchanges. In 2018 the Group celebrated its centenary as well as 20 years since demutualisation and listing in South Africa and Namibia. Sanlam is one of the largest internationally active insurance groups in the world with a presence in 27 countries and has the biggest non-banking financial services footprint on the African continent.

Who are we?

Sanlam was established as a life insurance company in South Africa but has since transformed into a diversified financial services group that operates across the African continent, India, Malaysia and selected developed markets, with listings on the Johannesburg, A2X and Namibian Securities Stock exchanges. In 2018 the Group celebrated its centenary as well as 20 years since demutualisation and listing in South Africa and Namibia. Sanlam is one of the largest internationally active insurance groups in the world with a presence in 27 countries and has the biggest non-banking financial services footprint on the African continent. The Group's four business clusters (Sanlam Life and Savings, Sanlam Investment Group, Sanlam Allianz and Santam) house the Group's business operations. The Group Office provides strategic direction and support to the four clusters, assisting them in realising their strategies and meeting their business objectives. The Group Office is responsible for governance and for the Group's centralised functions, which include: Group Tecnhnology, Finance, Actuarial, Risk and Balance Sheet Management, Strategy, Human Capital, Brand, Marketing and Corporate Affairs. The Group Office ensures cohesive management across the organisation.

Purpose of the Role

Responsible for financial analyses or for a division providing financial accounting services for head office and/or group companies. Applies principles of accounting to analyse financial information and prepare financial reports. Compiles and analyses financial information to prepare entries to accounts, such as general ledger, documenting business transactions. Analyses financial information detailing assets, liabilities and capital. Prepares balance sheets, profit and loss statements and other reports to summarize and interpret current and projected company financial position. Audits contracts, orders and vouchers and prepares reports to substantiate transactions prior to settlement. Installs, modifies, documents and coordinates implementation of accounting systems and control procedures. Makes recommendations regarding the accounting of reserves, assets and expenditures. May have supervisory and/or client relationship responsibilities.

What will make you successful?

Management Reporting Duties

• Support the Sanlam Group budgeting process.
• Interim and annual reporting: Preparation and/or co-ordinating of the Management Information (MI) sections
• Support Sanlam group forecasting
• Support MI reporting, including the data analytics and insights
• Perform MI to IFRS reconciliations
• Processing of SAP journals, where applicable
• Trial balance controls/Reconciliation accounts where applicable,

Statutory Reporting Duties

• Preparation and coordinating of inputs into the reporting cycles of the following entities:
• Sanlam Limited Group and Shareholder Fund Reporting
• Sanlam Life Insurance Limited group and company
• Preparation of other subsidiary financial statements and management of audit process.
• Maintaining of a high level of technical competence in the areas of the following IFRS standards:
• IFRS 9 Financial instruments
• IFRS 13 Fair value measurement
• IFRS 17 Insurance contracts
• IAS 28 Investment in associates and joint ventures

Qualification And Experience

• Qualified accountant (CA (SA))
• 4-5 years (minimum) in an accounting/financial environment
• Similar relevant experience in the insurance industry
• Experience in using Sanlam’s financial reporting systems (SAP/Hyperion Financial Management) will be to your advantage
• Proficient in data analytics and the preparation of presentation. Proficient in the use of modern technology and digital solutions.
• Specialist Knowledge (preferably insurance industry): Understands technical or professional aspects of work and continually maintains technical knowledge (e.g. IFRS)

Compentencies

• Accuracy and attention to detail. Ability to research issues at a detailed level and having enthusiasm for tackling complex issues
• Quality orientated: Shows awareness of goals and standards. Follows through to ensure that quality and productivity standards are met
• Planning and organisational skills: Organises and schedules events, activities and resources. Sets up and monitors timescales and plans
• Has the ability to work autonomously and with minimal guidance, but also knowing when to escalation issues encountered
• Good interpersonal skills: Building and maintaining relationships. Interacts with others in a sensitive and effective way. Respects and works well with others.
• Deadline driven
• Demonstrates a broad-based view of issues, events and activities and a perception of their long-term impact or wider implications
• Innovative Thinking: Creates new and imaginative approaches to work-related issues
• Stress Tolerance – deliver well under pressure
• Able to perform independently and as part of a team
• Excellent writing and verbal communication skills in English
• Problem-solving and analytical Thinking: Makes systematic and rational judgements based on relevant information
• Adaptive thinking: Application of principles to variety of circumstances
• Flexible: Successfully adapts to changing demands and conditions
• Persuasive: Influences, convinces or impresses others in a way that results in acceptance and agreement

Required Behavioural Competencies

• Manages Complexity
• Optimises Work Processes
• Financial Acumen
• Ensures Accountability
• Tech Savvy
• Plans and Aligns

Build a successful career with us

The shortlisting process will only start once the application due date has been reached. The time taken to complete this process will depend on how far you progress and the availability of managers. The closing date for applications is 14 October 2026. The Sanlam Group is committed to achieving transformation and embraces diversity. This commitment is what drives us to achieve a diverse, inclusive and equitable workplace as we believe that these are key components to ensuring a thriving and sustainable business in South Africa. The Group's Employment Equity plan and targets will be considered as part of the selection process.