Chief Accountant

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Chief Accountant to lead the finance and accounting function for our South Africa operations. The role combines financial accounting, statutory compliance, payroll administration, commercial finance support, and business analysis, acting as the key finance partner to local management.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the full set of accounts and general ledger management.
• Manage month‑end and year‑end closing processes.
• Prepare monthly management accounts, financial statements, and group reporting packages.
• Perform balance sheet reconciliations and ensure accuracy of financial records.
• Manage cash flow forecasting and working capital requirements.
• Ensure compliance with group accounting policies and internal controls.
• Analyze sales, margins, operating expenses, and profitability by product, customer, and business segment.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes.
• Provide financial analysis and recommendations to support commercial and operational decision‑making.
• Monitor financial performance against budget and identify risks and opportunities.
• Develop business performance dashboards and management reports.
• Process monthly payroll for local employees accurately and on time.
• Ensure compliance with South African payroll regulations, PAYE, UIF, SDL, and other statutory requirements.
• Coordinate payroll‑related reporting, employee benefits administration, and payroll audits.
• Coordinate with external auditors and manage annual statutory audits.
• Prepare and review VAT, corporate income tax, withholding tax, and other statutory filings.
• Liaise with tax advisors, auditors, banks, and regulatory authorities.
• Maintain statutory records and support corporate secretarial requirements where applicable.
• Oversee accounts receivable, collections, accounts payable, and treasury activities.
• Monitor inventory accounting and stock controls.
• Review and approve payment vouchers, expense claims, and purchase transactions.
• Support continuous improvement of finance processes and controls.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.
• Professional qualification (e.g., CA, CPA).

Required skills