Bookkeeper & Office Manager (Legal)

Our client is a premier litigation firm with a distinguished legacy dating back to 1965. As the first in South Africa to specialize in Personal Injury Law, they have played a key role in shaping the nation’s legal landscape. With offices in Cape Town and Johannesburg, their mission is to passionately defend the rights of the injured, pursue justice, and secure substantial compensation for their clients. They are committed to transparency, collaboration, and achieving groundbreaking legal milestones in personal injury, labor law, and medical malpractice.

Role Overview

Our client is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Bookkeeper & Office Manager to join their dynamic mid-sized law firm with national branches. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in both trust and business accounting, proficiency with accounting software (including Pastel and Winlaw), and a solid understanding of payroll management, VAT, UIF, and tax compliance. Additionally, they will act as the Office Manager, ensuring smooth daily operations and effective employee management.

Job Type: Full time/Permanent

Workplace: Onsite

Location: Cape Town

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of bookkeeping and office management experience, preferably in a law firm.
• Relevant qualification in Accounting, Finance, or Office Administration.
• Advanced knowledge of Pastel and Winlaw is essential. Experience with other accounting software is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of trust and business accounting principles.
• Knowledge of VAT, UIF, and tax compliance.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for team management.
• Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy.
• Proactive and capable of working independently.
• Discreet and trustworthy, with the ability to handle sensitive information.
• Problem-solving mindset with a focus on efficiency and productivity.

Responsibilities

Accounting & Financial Management:

• Maintain accurate financial records, including trust and business accounts, in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Process payments, reconcile accounts, and prepare financial statements and reports.
• Handle VAT calculations, VAT returns, UIF, and PAYE submissions accurately and on time.
• Manage payroll for all employees, including deductions, bonuses, and statutory contributions.
• Utilize and maintain accounting software systems, including Pastel and Winlaw, ensuring data integrity.
• Manage client billing, invoicing, and debt collection as needed.

Office Management:

• Oversee day-to-day office operations, including supplies procurement, equipment maintenance, and vendor management.
• Supervise and manage administrative and support staff across branches.
• Implement and maintain efficient office systems and procedures to enhance productivity.
• Serve as the liaison between different departments and branches to ensure effective communication and collaboration.
• Assist with recruitment, onboarding, and training of new employees.

Compliance & Regulatory Duties:

• Ensure compliance with financial regulations, including trust account requirements and tax legislation.
• Prepare and assist with internal and external audits.
• Stay updated on legislative changes affecting the firm’s financial operations.