The Senior Bookkeeper oversees accurate financial record-keeping, ensures compliance with tax regulations, and manages day-to-day accounting operations. This role requires meticulous attention to detail, proficiency in accounting software, and the ability to streamline bookkeeping processes for efficiency and accuracy. Key Responsibilities
1. Financial Record-Keeping & Reconciliation

• Maintain full set of accounting records (General Ledger, Trial Balance)
• Perform bank reconciliations and resolve discrepancies
• Process accounts payable/receivable (invoices, payments, receipts)

2. Payroll & Employee Administration

• Calculate salaries, overtime, bonuses, and deductions
• Submit monthly PAYE, UIF, and SDL to SARS
• Issue IRP5/IT3(a) certificates annually

3. VAT & Tax Compliance

• Prepare and submit VAT201 returns (including VAT reconciliations)
• Ensure compliance with SARS tax deadlines
• Assist with annual income tax returns (ITR14 for companies)

4. Financial Reporting

• Generate monthly management accounts (Income Statement, Balance Sheet)
• Prepare cash flow statements for business planning
• Assist with year-end audit files

5. Process Improvement & Automation

• Implement cloud accounting software (Xero, QuickBooks, Sage)
• Automate recurring transactions and reconciliations
• Train junior staff on efficient bookkeeping practices

6. Compliance & Internal Controls

• Ensure adherence to IFRS for SMEs
• Maintain documentation for SARS audits
• Monitor fraud prevention measures

Required Skills & Competencies
Technical Skills
✅ Accounting Software: Xero, QuickBooks, Pastel, Sage
✅ Tax Knowledge: VAT, PAYE, UIF, SARS eFiling
✅ Advanced Excel: PivotTables, VLOOKUP, Formulas
✅ Payroll Processing: VIP/Sage Payroll, SimplePay
✅ Regulatory Compliance: Companies Act, IFRS for SMEs
Soft Skills
✔ Attention to Detail – Ensuring 100% accuracy in records
✔ Time Management – Meeting SARS and payroll deadlines
✔ Problem-Solving – Resolving reconciliation discrepancies
✔ Communication – Liaising with accountants, auditors, and management Qualifications & Certifications
Mandatory:

• National Diploma in Financial Accounting/Bookkeeping (NQF 6)
• 5+ years of full-cycle bookkeeping experience

Preferred:

• Certified Bookkeeper (ICB/SAIT)
• SARS eFiling certification
• Pastel Partner Certified

Experience Requirements

• Senior Bookkeeper: 5+ years (full financial function)