South Africa: Finance Assistant

Key Responsibilities: Financial Administration & Record-Keeping Maintain accurate accounting records in line with company policies Capture and process journals, invoices, and payments Maintain general ledger integrity and supporting schedules Ensure proper filing and document control (physical and electronic) Accounts Payable & Receivable Support Process supplier invoices and reconcile statements Prepare payment schedules Assist with debtor invoicing, receipt allocations, and follow-ups Resolve basic supplier and customer account queries Monitor cash inflows and outflows and report variances Bank, Cash & Reconciliations Perform daily and weekly bank and cash reconciliations Monitor bank balances and assist with cash flow tracking Prepare payment and banking documentation Management Accounts & Reporting Support Assist with monthly management accounts Compile reconciliations, schedules, and variance analyses Prepare basic financial reports Assist with budget preparation and tracking Payroll & Statutory Support (where applicable) Assist with payroll administration Maintain payroll records and supporting documentation Assist with statutory submissions (PAYE, UIF, SDL, VAT) Ensure compliance with tax and labour legislation Audit & Compliance Assistance Prepare audit files and supporting documentation Assist with internal and external audit queries Ensure adherence to financial controls and procedures Report control weaknesses or irregularities Support to the Financial Director Provide administrative and analytical support Assist with ad-hoc financial analysis and projects Prepare reports, schedules, and presentations Liaise with other departments when required Systems & Process Improvement Support the maintenance and improvement of finance systems Ensure accurate use of accounting software Assist with system or process implementations Contribute to efficiency improvements General Finance Support Perform finance-related duties as delegated Support the finance team during peak periods Maintain strict confidentiality Minimum Requirements: Education & Qualifications Diploma or Degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field Relevant bookkeeping or accounting qualification Studying towards CIMA, ACCA, SAIPA (advantageous) Experience 23 years experience in a finance or accounting role Exposure to general ledger, AP/AR, and reconciliations Experience supporting senior finance management is advantageous Technical Skills Working knowledge of accounting software (Sage, Pastel, Xero, SAP, or similar) Strong Microsoft Excel skills Proficiency in Word and Outlook Knowledge Basic accounting principles Understanding of VAT, PAYE, UIF (advantageous) Awareness of internal controls and compliance Skills & Competencies High attention to detail and accuracy Strong organisational and time-management skills Ability to meet deadlines under pressure Good numerical and analytical ability Strong communication skills Personal Attributes High integrity and confidentiality Independent and team-oriented Proactive, reliable, and eager to learn Strong sense of accountability Additional Requirements Willingness to work extended hours during month-end or audits Reliable transport South African citizenship or valid work permit