Financial Accountant

A fast-growing finance and technology company operating across multiple Southern African countries is revolutionizing personal lending by offering products through online, mobile phone, and branch channels. Supported by strong shareholders and a board with extensive experience in entrepreneurship and lending, the South African entity is seeking a diligent and motivated Financial Accountant to join the team. This role is ideal for a recently qualified finance professional eager to learn and grow within the business.

Key Responsibilities:

• Process accounting transactions in Xero and oversee month-end close-offs.
• Maintain trial balances and ensure compliance with IFRS and group policies.
• Assist with internal and external audits, including SARS, VAT, Income Tax, and Provisional Tax.
• Accurately classify VAT transactions and update income/deferred tax computations.
• Supervise and manage supplier invoice processing, supplier ledger, payments, creditor reconciliations, and intercompany transactions.
• Prepare and manage monthly management accounts, balance sheet, and petty cash reconciliations.
• Maintain fixed asset register, depreciation journals, and conduct physical asset verification.
• Perform bank reconciliations and file VAT 201 returns.
• Oversee salary journals and reconcile salary control accounts (EMP201).
• Ensure alignment between Xero and the loan management system.
• Provide support to group accountants and financial managers as needed.
• Complete and submit statutory documents for NCR as required.
• Support ad-hoc banking and administrative requirements.

Requirements:

• A BCom or Honours Degree in Accounting or Financial Accounting.
• Completion of a SAIPA/SAICA training contract and qualification as a SAIPA/AGA.
• Knowledge of IFRS and tax principles.
• Proficiency in MS Excel/Google Sheets; experience with Xero is a plus.
• Ability to adapt to a fast-paced, changing environment.
• Strong ability to meet deadlines and prioritize tasks.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, attention to detail, and communication skills.