Project Accountant

SUMMARY:
Project Accountant - JSE Listed Company

POSITION INFO:

Our client, a leading listed organisation based in Johannesburg, is seeking an Accountant – Finance Projects, to play a key operational role in supporting the financial and finance systems integration aspects of various business projects. The role ensures compliance with financial and business controls, policies, and systems to maintain financial and system integrity during project execution. Reporting to the Senior Financial Manager – Projects, the role is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, assisting with financial analysis, and supporting project-related finance activities.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, accurate in financial processing, and able to collaborate effectively with stakeholders while supporting project-related finance processes.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Processing and Record-Keeping:

• Ensure accurate and timely processing and record keeping of the financial and finance systems integration aspects of various business projects, including transactions related to project expenses, revenue recognition, and cost allocations.
• Assist in the preparation of financial reports for project-related activities.

Support in Feasibility Assessments:

• Provide financial data to assist in assessing the financial feasibility of projects.
• Collaborate with the Financial Manager to ensure project costs and financial estimates align with budgetary constraints.

Assist in Return on Investment (ROI) Calculations:

• Gather and process relevant financial data to support ROI calculations.
• Assist in monitoring financial performance against projected returns.

Cost and Breakeven Analysis:

• Conduct basic cost analysis and assist in determining breakeven points for projects.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and report findings to the Financial Manager.

Project Financial Support:

• Support the Financial Manager in providing financial oversight for business projects.
• Assist with financial documentation, tracking of project expenses, and ensuring alignment with budgets.

User Acceptance Testing (UAT) – Finance Perspective:

• Participate in UAT from a finance perspective to validate financial system integrations.
• Identify discrepancies and report issues to the Financial Manager for resolution.

Financial Reporting and Compliance:

• Prepare financial reports and assist with variance analysis for project financials.
• Ensure compliance with financial policies, controls, and audit requirements.
• Assist with internal and external audits by providing supporting documentation.

Handover to Operational Finance Team:

• Work with the Financial Manager to ensure smooth financial transitions of projects from implementation to operational phases.
• Provide necessary financial documentation and support to operational teams.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (e.g., BCom Accounting, BCom Finance).
• Studying towards or completion of a relevant professional qualification would be advantageous (e.g., CIMA, ACCA, SAIPA, or SAICA).

Experience Required:

• Minimum of 3–5 years’ experience in an accounting or financial role.
• Experience in financial reporting and control.
• Exposure to finance processes and systems in a shared services or project environment would be advantageous.
• Prior experience working in a retail or similar industry is desirable.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in financial transactions.
• Proficiency in financial systems and ERP platforms, preferably SAP.
• Analytical skills to assist in financial modelling and reporting.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and collaborate with stakeholders.
• Good communication skills for financial reporting and stakeholder interaction.
• Knowledge of financial policies, compliance, and internal controls.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other financial reporting tools.