Senior Financial Accountant at OUTsurance

Job Description

• We are looking for an experienced Senior Financial accountant who wishes to build a career within the Finance department specialising in short-term insurance.
• The Senior Financial Accountant will be responsible for managing the financial reporting, accounting operations, and compliance for the insurance company. This role requires a thorough understanding of financial principles, regulatory requirements, and accounting practices specific to the insurance sector. The individual will play a critical role in ensuring accurate financial statements, managing audits, and supporting strategic financial planning.

Responsibilities

Financial Reporting:

• Oversee preparation of monthly and biannual financial results, together with the annual financial statements.
• Ensure compliance with IFRS and other regulatory standards.
• Prepare variance analysis and explain deviations in financial performance.

Accounting Operations:

• Manage the general ledger, ensuring accurate and timely posting of transactions.
• Oversee accounts payable, receivable, and intercompany transactions.
• Implement and maintain internal controls to safeguard company assets.
• Ensure the completion of all month-end processes and reconciliations.
• Assist in the preparation of VAT calculations and submissions.

Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with insurance regulations, tax laws, and financial reporting standards.
• Liaise with external auditors during annual audits and manage audit requests.
• Assist with preparation and filing regulatory reports as required by government agencies and managing queries from these agencies.

Team Leadership:

• Train and support junior accounting staff, providing guidance where required.
• Foster a collaborative team environment, encouraging professional development. Ensure collaboration and transparency in the relationship with Group Finance through proactive, professional and accurate reporting and communication.
• Lead projects related to process improvements and system enhancements.
• Take end-to-end ownership for the accuracy of the trial balance and engage stakeholders where and when required on any areas of risk.

Financial Analysis:

• Conduct detailed financial analysis to support management’s strategic initiatives.
• Assist in identifying cost-saving opportunities and operational efficiencies.

The candidate will report to the Financial Manager for OUTsurance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field; CA (SA) or equivalent qualifications preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in financial accounting, with at least 2 years in the insurance industry.
• Strong knowledge of IFRS and relevant regulatory requirements for insurance.
• Proficiency in MS Excel.
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills with diligence.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to interact with stakeholders at all levels.
• Ability to lead and manage multiple projects in a challenging environment.