Bookkeeper

SUMMARY:
Bookkeeper - QSR - Newlands East, Dbn.

POSITION INFO:
Purpose of the Role

Our reputable QSR / Fast Food client is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Bookkeeper to join their Finance team based at their Head Office in Newlands East, Durban.

The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting the full accounting function, including financial reporting, accounts payable and receivable, inventory valuation, fixed asset registers, tax and statutory compliance, budgeting, variance analysis, internal controls and audit processes. The role will work closely with the operational and finance teams to ensure accurate and timely financial information.

The position reports to the Divisional Financial Manager, with a dotted reporting line to the Divisional Finance Executive.

Minimum Requirements
Qualifications
- Diploma or Degree in Finance, Financial Management, Accounting, or a related field.
- Valid Code 8 driver's license and own vehicle will be advantageous.

Experience
- Minimum 3 years' experience in a Bookkeeper, Junior Accountant, Financial Controller, or similar finance role.
- Candidates currently working within an accounting firm / accounting practice will be considered.
- Minimum 3 years' experience working on Sage 50, Sage 200 or a similar accounting system.
- Previous FMCG, Fast Food or Retail experience will be highly advantageous.
- International accounting experience will be advantageous, particularly candidates who have worked with entities or operations across African countries.
- Strong understanding of accounting principles and concepts.

The client's original job description specifically identifies three years' similar experience and three years' Sage 50/Sage 200 experience as non-negotiable requirements.

Computer & Systems Requirements
- Sage 50 / Sage 200 or similar accounting software.
- Strong MS Office skills, particularly Excel.
- Ability to work confidently with financial reports and accounting data.

- Key Responsibilities
The Bookkeeper will be responsible for:
- Preparing, collating, and interpreting financial reports.
- Maintaining accurate accounting records and supporting the overall accounting function.
- Maintaining and updating fixed asset registers.
- Reviewing accounts payable and accounts receivable records.
- Performing inventory valuations and verifying stock count sheets.
- Ensuring compliance with tax requirements and statutory regulations.
- Assisting with and supporting the audit process.
- Ensuring financial information and supporting documentation are complete and accurate for the preparation of financial statements.
- Assisting with budget preparation and management.
- Performing budget versus actual and variance analysis.
- Implementing and maintaining appropriate internal financial controls.
- Ensuring finance-related Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are implemented and adhered to.
- Analyzing financial reports and identifying discrepancies or areas requiring investigation.
- Liaising closely with the operations team and other departments regarding financial matters.
- Supporting the Finance Management team with additional accounting and reporting requirements as required.

Key Competencies
- Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong numerical and analytical ability.
- Effective time-management and organizational skills.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- Ability to work accurately within deadlines.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively with employees and stakeholders across all levels of the organization.
- Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a finance team.
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The original role profile highlights attention to detail, time management, problem-solving, decision-making and strong written and verbal communication as key behavioral competencies.

Advantageous Experience
Preference will be given to candidates with exposure to:
- FMCG, QSR / Fast Food or Retail environments.
- Multi-site or high-volume business environments.
- International finance or accounting environments.
- Financial operations involving African countries or cross-border entities.
- Accounting firms or professional accounting practices.

Non-Negotiables
- Diploma or Degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field.
- Minimum 3 years' experience in a similar finance/accounting role.
- Minimum 3 years' experience using Sage 50, Sage 200 or a similar accounting system.
- Strong attention to detail with a proven track record of accuracy.
- Willing and able to work full-time from the client's Head Office in Newlands East / Riverhorse Valley, Durban.