Bookkeeper

SUMMARY:
The Bookkeeper will be responsible for the day today financial  record keeping of the restaurant, ensuring accurate processing of income and expenses, reconciliation of accounts, payroll support and full compliance with SARS statutory requirements.  The role supports the Managing Director with timely and reliable financial information for decision making.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities 

• Process daily sales, purchases, bank transactions and petty cash, maintaining an accurate General Ledger.
• Perform monthly bank, supplier and till reconciliations.
• Manage accounts payable and accounts receivables, including supplier payments and debtor follow up.
• Prepare and submit monthly VAT201 returns, and ensure accurate VAT accounting on all transactions.
• Process monthly payroll, including PAYE, UIF and SDL calculations and EMP201 submissions.
• Prepare annual EMP501 reconciliations and manage IRP and IT3(a) certificate issuing.
• Maintain SARS eFiling profile and respond to SARS queries, verifications and audits.
• Prepare monthly management accounts, including income statement and balance sheet for review 
• Track stock and cost of sales in conjunction with restaurant management. 
• Maintain the fixed asset register and process monthly depreciation. 
• Prepare supporting schedules for provisional and annual income tax submissions, working with the external accountant or tax practitioner. 
• Ensure all financial records are audit ready and properly filed in line with statutory retention periods.
• Assist with budgeting, cash flow forecasting and cost control reporting 

• Minimum 5 years bookkeeping experience, with demonstrable experience in a restaurant or hospitality environment essential.
• Minimum 3 years tertiary qualification in Bookkeeping, Accounting or Financial Management (Diploma or Degree)
• Sound working knowledge of SARS compliance, including VAT, PAYE, UIF, SDL, EMP201, EMP501 and provisional tax. 
• Proficient user of SARS eFiling and Easyfile.
• Extensive practical experience on one or more of the leading accounting software packages such as Sage Business Cloud Accounting, Sage Pastel Partner, Xero, QuickBooks or Zoro Books. 
• Strong Excel skills, including reconciliations and reporting.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail. 
• Ability to work independently, meet deadlines and manage confidential financial information. 

• Working knowledge of restaurant point of sale systems, such as Micros, Squirrel or Zonal, and their interface with the accounting system.
• Experience with restaurant specific cost of sales, stock takes and menu costing.
• Experience liaising directly with SARS and external auditors or tax practitioners.
• Strong communication skills and a proactive, solutions driven approach.