South Africa: Accounting Manager

About the Role

The Accounting Manager position is a critical role that requires a highly experienced professional with a strong background in public accounting and financial oversight. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing multiple client accounts, ensuring timely and accurate delivery of financial reports, and providing exceptional client communication.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and actively participate in the month-end close process, ensuring timely, accurate, and complete delivery of client financial reports.
• Prepare and review bank, credit card, and general ledger reconciliations, resolving complex scenarios as necessary.
• Maintain and review subsidiary schedules, including fixed assets, debt, and other balance sheet accounts.
• Analyse financial data, investigate variances, and ensure accuracy of account balances.
• Prepare and review journal entries, including payroll, sales, inventory, and other month-end adjustments.
• Prepare and perform final review of financial statements prior to client delivery.
• Process and review payroll, ensuring accuracy and compliance with applicable regulations.
• Prepare and review payroll tax filings, deposits, and related compliance requirements.
• Manage complex payroll matters such as garnishments, support orders, and tax notices.
• Verify employees’ vacation, sick leave, and PTO accruals, adjusting as necessary.
• Oversee and assist with accounts payable functions, including bill entry, payment processing, and vendor issue resolution.
• Prepare and review sales tax returns, ensuring timely and accurate filings.
• Prepare and review annual Personal Property tax returns.
• Respond to and review IRS and state notices related to payroll and sales tax.
• Review work performed by staff accountants, providing feedback, corrections, and guidance to ensure quality and consistency.

Requirements

• 68 years of public accounting experience with progressively increasing responsibility in client management and financial oversight.
• 23 years of supervisory experience managing a team of 23 individuals.
• Solid understanding of debits and credits is essential.
• Detail-oriented with strong organisational skills.
• Ability to manage deadlines across multiple client accounts while coordinating team workflow and priorities.

Qualifications

• Formal education/certifications not specified in the original description.