Senior Accountant

A leading firm in the renewable energy sector is looking for a Senior Accountant for a 6-month maternity cover contract, working fully remotely (Starting 1 June 2026). The successful incumbent will be a hands-on expert in Xero, moving seamlessly between complex management reporting, corporate governance, and essential administrative functions to ensure the finance unit remains agile and compliant.

The Senior Accountant takes ownership of the organisation’s financial health by managing the full management accounting cycle and ensuring strict adherence to statutory regulations. Beyond the balance sheet, this role is responsible for drafting and monitoring the corporate governance policies that safeguard the entity’s integrity. Reporting to the Director of Finance, the incumbent will lead a small team to deliver accurate reporting, optimise cash flow, and support sustainable business growth within a highly regulated sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Budgeting & Forecasting: Lead the collaborative preparation of annual operational and capital expenditure budgets; utilise historical data and market analysis to build financial models and forecast future revenue trends.

• Management Accounting: Prepare comprehensive monthly and quarterly management accounts up to trial balance, including detailed cash flow reporting and variance analysis.

• Statutory & Governance Compliance: Draft and refine corporate governance policies in alignment with King IV, the Companies Act, and IFC Performance Standards; ensure all operations meet Tax, OHS, and Environmental legislation requirements.

• Audit & Financial Reporting: Facilitate the annual external audit process by preparing quarterly and draft annual financial statements; maintain a rigorous internal audit trail to achieve unqualified audit outcomes.

• Asset & Procurement Management: Develop and maintain a live company asset register; oversee the procurement of goods and services to ensure cost-effectiveness and policy compliance.

• Operational Leadership: Manage and mentor a team (Debtors and Creditors Clerks) while advising senior leadership on financial best practices and process optimisation.

Requirements

• Qualifications: A Bachelor’s Degree in Finance or Accounting is essential.

• Experience: 3–5 years of proven experience in a Financial Controller, Internal Auditor, or External Auditor role.

• Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of the Companies Act, Income Tax Act, and VAT Act.

• Reporting: Proven track record in preparing financial reports, managing accounts payable/receivable, and monitoring capital budgets.

• Sector Familiarity: Experience dealing with the Department of Labour and an understanding of compliance within a regulated environment (Solar or Energy sector experience is highly advantageous).

Preferred Qualifications

• Post-graduate degree in Business Management (Honours or MBA).

• Advanced experience in forecasting and managing company-wide asset registers.

• Familiarity with IFC Performance Standards and ESMS (Environmental and Social Management System) requirements.

Required Software Skills

• Advanced Microsoft Excel (VBA or complex modelling preferred).

• Proficiency in modern Accounting Software (e.g., Sage, Xero, or SAP).

• Experience with SARS e-Filing and statutory submission portals.

Benefits

A fully remote role designed for a self-starter who excels without direct physical supervision.

A critical role within a high-output team contributing to national green energy infrastructure.

An environment that rewards problem-solving, ethical leadership, and the ability to work under pressure.