Financial Assistant: Centurion - Shoprite Group

The Financial Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the financial operations of the business by overseeing daily and weekly reporting processes, assisting with stocktakes, and managing month-end activities. This role emphasizes accurate invoice processing, general ledger management, and the oversight of store floats to ensure financial integrity and transparency. The Financial Assistant will work closely with the Finance Team to ensure the smooth operation of various financial processes and support the company's objectives.

Job Objectives

Reporting and Analysis

• Generate daily and weekly financial reports to support business decision-making.
• Prepare ad hoc reports as requested by management, ensuring data accuracy and relevance.
• Assist in organizing and processing stocktakes to maintain inventory accuracy and integrity.
• Any other requests as needed by the Divisional Financial Manager

Month-End Activities

• Execute month-end procedures, including processing invoices, posting provisions, and preparing the monthly financial reports.
• Perform various reconciliations to ensure the accuracy and completeness of financial data.
• Conduct bank clearings to ensure that all transactions are accurately reflected in the financial records.
• Collaborate with the Finance Team to ensure timely closure of the general ledger and accuracy of monthly financial statements.
• Maintain accurate records of store floats, ensuring all cash balances are accurate and reconciled.
• Oversee the scrapping and transfers of assets.

General Ledger and Administrative Support

• Support the General Ledger function by ensuring timely data entry and accuracy in financial transactions.
• Engage with store and above-store management to collect necessary information and insights for reporting and reconciliation.
• Interact with vendors to resolve queries regarding invoicing and other financial matters.
• Manage and process stationery orders for the office, ensuring proper tracking and budget compliance.
• Verify contractual accounts to ensure all invoices are current and payments are up-to-date.
• Assist with administrative functions for the fleet, including ordering new cars, arranging the collection of old cars, and managing pool cars.

Qualifications

• Matric
• Degree in Accounting/Finance or a related field (essential)

Experience

• 2+ years of experience in a financial or bookkeeping role with a focus on reporting and month-end processes (essential)

Knowledge and Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365, particularly advanced Excel skills (essential).
• Familiarity with retail operations and an understanding of cash management principles (desired, not essential).

Competencies

• Proficient in Financial Accounting: Demonstrates a strong understanding of financial transaction recording, report compilation, and data reconciliation, applying accounting principles effectively.
• Analytical Skills: Capable of analysing financial trends and data to provide actionable insights while adapting to new information quickly.
• Operational Efficiency: Efficient in managing multiple tasks simultaneously, focusing on detail-oriented processes while understanding their impact on overall business goals.
• Retail Acumen: Possesses an understanding of retail operations, customer behavior, and the financial implications related to commercial viability.
• Results-Driven and Organized: Focused on achieving results, managing time effectively, and meeting deadlines while maintaining high-quality standards.
• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication abilities, able to convey complex information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.
• Adaptability and Pressure Management: Comfortable working in fast-paced, dynamic environments, managing competing priorities with poise and agility.
• Collaborative Partner: Fosters positive team dynamics by collaborating with various stakeholders to solve problems and drive initiatives forward.