Accountant / Bookkeeper – SME Portfolio (George)

About the role

Our client, a forward‑thinking accounting practice, is looking for an experienced Accountant / Bookkeeper to manage the full monthly bookkeeping cycle for a portfolio of small and medium‑size enterprise (SME) clients in George.

Key responsibilities

• Process and reconcile client financial transactions accurately and timely.
• Maintain comprehensive bookkeeping records for a portfolio of SME clients.
• Prepare and submit VAT201 and EMP201 returns.
• Process payroll and maintain accurate payroll records.
• Prepare management accounts and financial reports for clients.
• Perform bank, debtor, creditor and balance‑sheet reconciliations.
• Calculate taxes and complete individual tax returns.
• Liaise directly with clients on bookkeeping queries and ensure regulatory deadlines are met.

Required profile

• Completed tertiary qualification in Accounting, Bookkeeping, Finance or related field (BCom, National Diploma or equivalent).
• 3 to 5 years of practical bookkeeping or accounting experience, preferably within an accounting practice.
• Strong understanding of VAT principles in a South African SME environment.
• Fluent in both English and Afrikaans (written and verbal).

Required skills

• Full‑function bookkeeping, bank reconciliations, VAT201, EMP201.
• Payroll administration and financial reporting.
• Management accounts preparation.
• Proficiency with Xero, Sage and Pastel accounting software.
• Experience using SARS eFiling and SimplePay.