Financial Accountant

A well-known security consulting firm is seeking a dedicated and skilled Financial Accountant to support the head of finance in managing financial operations for various projects. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in ensuring accurate financial reporting, compliance with regulations, and efficient financial management.

This is an in-office position based in Pretoria East.

Responsibilities

Financial Operations Management: Oversee and manage the day-to-day financial operations of the finance team, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, and general ledger functions. Transaction Processing: Ensure accurate and timely processing of financial transactions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger entries.

Tax Compliance: Review and submit VAT returns and liaise with external auditors and tax advisors to ensure adherence to tax laws and regulations. Financial Reporting: Prepare management reports and presentations to provide stakeholders with insights into the financial performance and health of the organisation. Balance Sheet Reconciliation: Perform monthly balance sheet reconciliations to ensure the accuracy of financial records.

Payment Verification: Conduct weekly and monthly verification of payments, ensuring accuracy and adherence to established procedures. Team Leadership: Lead and mentor a team of 3 individuals across the accounts receivable and accounts payable departments, providing guidance, support, and fostering a collaborative work environment.

Financial Reporting: Assist in the preparation, analysis, and presentation of accurate financial reports, including balance sheets, income statements, cash flow statements, and project-specific financial summaries. Project Accounting: Collaborate with project managers to monitor project budgets, expenses, and revenue recognition.

Ensure that financial data for African projects is accurately tracked and reported. Compliance: Stay up-to-date with local financial regulations and reporting requirements in African countries where projects are undertaken. Ensure all financial activities are in compliance with local laws and company policies. Financial Analysis: Conduct in-depth financial analysis to provide insights into project performance, profitability, cost trends, and potential financial risks.

Present findings to the Department Head of Finance. Budgeting and Forecasting: Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and periodic forecasts for African projects. Monitor actual performance against budgeted figures and provide variance analysis. Internal Controls: Collaborate in the design, implementation, and enhancement of internal control procedures to safeguard company assets and ensure accurate financial recording.

Audit Support: Prepare necessary documentation and assist in audits, both internal and external, ensuring that all required financial information is readily available and accurate. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate effectively with other departments, such as Operations and Legal, to ensure alignment of financial activities with project objectives and overall company strategy.

Process Improvement: Continuously seek opportunities to enhance financial processes, streamline workflows, and implement best practices within the African project finance function.

Requirements

Accounting qualification. Minimum of 5 years of relevant accounting and finance experience, with exposure to project accounting and international operations, preferably within the security or related industry. Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex financial data and provide actionable insights.

Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in financial software SAP, ERPs, and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint). Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present financial information clearly and concisely to both financial and non-financial stakeholders. Detail-Oriented: Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy in financial reporting and compliance.

Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, adapting to changing priorities and project requirements.