Finance Assistant at Shoprite Group of Companies

Purpose of the Job    

• The purpose of the Financial Assistant is to efficiently execute accounts processing, accounting and bookkeeping accuracy for the creditors’ function, whilst assisting with the debtors and month-end general ledger closure.
• The main purpose of this position is to assist the Divisional Financial Manager with all functions related to the division's financial processes.
• This role leverages knowledge and experience of general ledger accounts and accounting, and journal entry processing to execute month-end procedures, accounting system alignment, meeting payment deadlines and management debtor/creditor related queries and escalations.
• As part of the financial team, the Financial Assistant delivers assists the team to deliver value through the practice of sound bookkeeping and accounting principles within the Shoprite business.
• He or she must have a high level of attention to detail, the ability to contribute to strategic and tactical objectives. Energy, initiative and enthusiasm is required.
• Requirement: Advanced Excel Skills and SAP Finance Experience.

Job Objectives    

• Ensure systems alignment and timeous processing between accounting systems. 
• Manage accounts payable and sales processing with provision of supporting documents, adhering to authorization protocols, and approval framework.
• Execute accounts payable and receivable reconciliations for local and import creditor accounts, inter-divisional and inter-company accounts, efficiently validating transactions, balancing accounts, calculating costing, meeting payment deadlines and managing supporting documents (i.e., invoices or statements).
• Manage, validate and reconcile staff claims and expense accounts.
• Prepare and process payment schedules as per payment terms and follow-up on instructions for payment.
• Manage and resolve queries and escalations pertaining to debtor or creditor accounts, providing feedback and following-up on all stages of the resolution.
• Maintain a healthy accounts receivable/payable Aging Analysis

Qualifications    

• Matric is required, National Diploma in Bookkeeping/Accounting or a degree in Accounting is preferred.

Experience    

• Comprehensive knowledge of accounting procedures and principles. Experience working with integrated ERP business management systems. Proficient in the use of Microsoft Excel (must know how to do VLOOKUP formula and Pivot Tables)
• Knowledge of SAP is advantageous.

Knowledge and Skills  

• High level of accuracy and efficiency. 
• Attention to detail. Good communication skills (verbal and written)
• Good interpersonal skills
• Display good planning and organizing ability 
• Able to cope with stressful situations 
• Able to deal with different individuals at all levels in the organization 
• Proactive approach with the ability to think ahead in a fast-paced environment.
• Must know how to Multi -task in a fast - paced environment
• Must be Deadline driven