Financial Accountant

A Financial Accountant keeps the company’s books accurate, complete and on time. In a mid-sized manufacturing, industrial or distribution business they own the month-end close, balance-sheet reconciliations, VAT and statutory returns, and the year-end file for the auditors. They are the person the Financial Manager relies on to say “the numbers are right”.

What the role involves

• Month-end and year-end close, journals and accruals
• Balance-sheet reconciliations (bank, debtors, creditors, fixed assets, intercompany)
• VAT201 returns, provisional tax support and SARS correspondence
• Preparing audit files and annual financial statements under IFRS or IFRS for SMEs
• Supervising creditors and debtors clerks in larger teams

What makes a strong candidate

We look for a BCom in Accounting, solid month-end experience on a recognised ERP, confident VAT knowledge, and a track record of clean audits. SAIPA or CIMA membership, or articles completed, is an advantage. Candidates who have worked in a multi-entity or manufacturing environment are usually able to step in faster.

Red flags we screen for

• Month-end experience limited to one part of the ledger
• No direct involvement with the external audit
• Frequent short stints with no clear reason

How PMG recruits Financial Accountants

We agree the must-haves with you (systems, IFRS level, team size), then combine our Talent Vault with direct approaches. Each candidate is screened on month-end depth, VAT, systems, salary and notice period, and only submitted with written consent.

Frequently asked questions

Financial Accountant or Management Accountant – which do I need?

If your priority is accurate books, compliance and the audit, you need a Financial Accountant. If you need insight into costs, margins and budgets, you need a Management Accountant.

Does a Financial Accountant need to be a CA(SA)?

No. Most Financial Accountant roles need a BCom Accounting with solid experience. A CA(SA) is usually only required for Financial Manager or Financial Controller level.

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Salary ranges and role descriptions on this page are indicative and for general guidance only. They vary by employer, location and experience and are not a guarantee of any offer.