Branch Accountant – Automotive

Branch Accountant Automotive Parts | George

Job Specification

• Automotive / motor industry experience (distribution or parts environment)
• Financial accounting and branch accounting knowledge
• Knowledge of stock / inventory accounting processes
• Knowledge of financial controls and compliance
• Understanding of branch operational processes
• Knowledge of SA financial legislation and tax principles (VAT, PAYE etc.)
• Understanding of internal controls and audit requirements
• Strong systems and financial data analysis knowledge
• Knowledge of company policies and procedures
• Expressed and implied ethical responsibilities
• General business and financial management experience

• BCom Accounting / Financial Accounting / similar qualification
• 35 years accounting experience in a branch / operational environment
• Motor industry experience advantageous
• Financial reporting and reconciliation skills
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Analytical and problem-solving ability
• Planning and organising skills
• Ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure
• Strong business and operational understanding
• Communication skills (verbal and written)
• Relationship-building ability across departments
• Assertiveness and sound judgement
• High integrity and professionalism
• Self-motivated and results-driven
• Team player with ability to work independently

1. Branch Financial Management

• Manage full branch accounting function
• Ensure accurate financial records and reporting for the branch
• Prepare monthly management accounts and variance analysis
• Monitor branch revenue, margins, costs and profitability
• Support branch management with financial insights and controls
• Ensure compliance with company financial policies and procedures
• Assist with budgeting and forecasting processes
• Monitor and control operational expenditure (OPEX)
• Identify financial risks and implement corrective actions

1. Stock & Inventory Accounting

• Manage and reconcile branch inventory accounts
• Monitor stock movements, adjustments and variances
• Investigate and resolve stock discrepancies
• Ensure accurate valuation of inventory
• Support stock counts and audits
• Ensure stock losses and damages are correctly recorded
• Align inventory records between warehouse and finance systems

1. Financial Controls & Compliance

• Implement and maintain internal financial controls
• Ensure compliance with financial legislation and company standards
• Prepare audit schedules and support internal/external audits
• Monitor adherence to approval and delegation limits
• Ensure accurate VAT and tax-related transactions
• Maintain financial documentation and records

1. Debtors, Creditors & Cash Management

• Oversee debtors and creditors processes at branch level
• Monitor collections, aging and credit risk
• Ensure supplier accounts are reconciled and paid correctly
• Manage cashbook, bank reconciliations and cash controls
• Monitor credit notes, returns and adjustments
• Ensure accurate invoicing and revenue recognition

1. Systems & Reporting

• Ensure accurate financial data within ERP / accounting systems
• Maintain alignment between financial and operational systems
• Produce financial and operational reports for management
• Analyse branch data to identify trends and improvement areas
• Support system improvements and financial process optimisation

1. Stakeholder & Branch Support

• Work closely with Branch Manager and operational teams
• Provide financial guidance to non-finance managers
• Support decision-making with financial analysis
• Liaise with Head Office Finance