Our client is a well-established organisation within the property development sector, focused on delivering high-quality development projects. This role forms a critical part of the business and offers the opportunity to take ownership of the full finance and office management function while partnering closely with senior leadership.
The successful person will be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, ensuring tax and statutory compliance, managing cash flow and payments, coordinating audits, and supporting project finance activities across multiple developments. In addition, the role oversees the day-to-day administrative operations of the business, making it ideal for a hands-on finance professional who enjoys variety and accountability.
This position offers exposure to project finance, stakeholder engagement, property development accounting, compliance, and operational management in a dynamic and entrepreneurial environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage the full bookkeeping and accounting function up to trial balance.
- Maintain the general ledger, supplier accounts, customer accounts, fixed asset register, and project costing schedules.
- Perform monthly bank, VAT, creditor, debtor, and loan account reconciliations.
- Prepare monthly management accounts, cash flow forecasts, and project cost reports.
- Ensure accurate VAT, payroll, and statutory compliance submissions.
- Liaise with SARS, auditors, tax practitioners, banks, attorneys, and other key stakeholders.
- Manage weekly payment runs and maintain strong financial controls.
- Support project budgeting, funding applications, drawdowns, and cost-to-complete reporting.
- Maintain accurate records relating to development projects, sales, transfers, and commissions.
- Coordinate year-end audit preparation and reporting requirements.
- Oversee office administration, contracts, insurance policies, and company records.
- Assist with payroll implementation and administration.
- Support management with financial and operational reporting and decision-making.
Job Experience and Skills Required
- BCom Accounting or equivalent qualification.
- SAIPA, completed articles, or CIMA qualification advantageous.
- 15+ years experience in a hands-on finance management or senior bookkeeping role.
- Property development, construction, or real estate industry experience highly advantageous.
- Strong understanding of South African VAT, tax compliance, and SARS eFiling.
- Experience preparing management accounts and cash flow forecasts.
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
- Experience working with accounting and banking platforms.
- Strong financial controls, reporting, and reconciliation skills.
- Ability to operate independently within a small, high-performing team.
Competency Requirements
- Financial Acumen
- Attention to Detail
- Strong Planning and Organising Skills
- Accountability
- Problem Solving and Analytical Thinking
- Communication and Stakeholder Management
- Integrity and Confidentiality
- Self-Management
- Results Orientation
- Adaptability and Initiative