Permanent - Accountant - Johannesburg - South Africa

We are looking for a highly skilled and experienced Senior Accountant to lead accounting functions, ensure regulatory compliance, and advise clients on complex financial matters. This role requires a proactive individual with strong leadership abilities, a client-centric mindset, and a passion for continuous development. You will also be responsible for overseeing junior staff and helping grow the firm’s client portfolio.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Client Advisory Services

   • Provide expert advice on tax planning, budgeting, and financial forecasting

   • Analyze financial statements and advise clients on performance and strategy

   • Offer guidance on business structuring and compliance optimization

2. Regulatory & Tax Compliance

   • Ensure full compliance with accounting standards, SARS regulations, and VAT laws

   • Review and submit tax and VAT returns on behalf of clients

   • Oversee audit preparation and liaise with auditors

3. Team Leadership & Oversight

   • Lead and supervise junior accountants

   • Review and approve their work for accuracy and completeness

   • Provide mentorship, training, and performance feedback

4. Business Development & Client Retention

   • Identify opportunities to grow the firm’s client base

   • Strengthen and maintain long-term relationships with clients

   • Participate in strategy meetings and support marketing initiatives

5. Continuous Learning & Development

   • Keep current with changes in tax legislation, accounting standards, and technology

   • Implement best practices across all finance and accounting functions

6. General Accounting Functions (in addition to Junior Accountant duties)

   • Bookkeeping and ledger maintenance

   • Financial reporting and statement preparation

   • Payroll processing and VAT submissions

   • Proficient use of software tools such as Sage Online, Sage Payroll, Xero, Pastel, Caseware, and eFiling

Key Requirements:

• Education:

  • BCom in Accounting, Finance, or related field (Honours or postgraduate qualification beneficial)

  • SAIPA/SAICA articles completed or near completion preferred

• Experience:

  • Minimum 3–5 years accounting experience

  • Experience supervising or mentoring junior staff

• Technical Skills:

  • Advanced proficiency in accounting software (Sage, Pastel, Xero, Caseware, eFiling)

  • Strong Microsoft Excel and analytical skills

• Personal Attributes:

  • Strong leadership and decision-making abilities

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

  • High level of accuracy and attention to detail

  • Commercially minded with strong problem-solving skills

  • Ability to handle multiple client portfolios