Financial Accountant

Rand Park High School is seeking to appoint a skilled and experienced Financial Accountant to support the financial accounting, reporting, budgeting, and compliance functions of the school. The school is located in the Northern suburbs of Johannesburg and is a leading co-educational public school.

The successful candidate will play a key role within the Finance Department. The position reports directly to the Finance Manager and requires a highly organised, analytical, and detail-oriented professional who is committed to maintaining the highest standards of financial integrity and accuracy.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities, sound judgement, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Adaptability, accountability, and a commitment to meeting deadlines are essential.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Accounting & Reporting

• Maintain accurate and complete accounting records in accordance with accepted accounting principles and school policies.
• Prepare and process monthly journal entries and general ledger transactions.
• Perform monthly reconciliations of all balance sheet accounts.
• Review and reconcile bank accounts and cashbook transactions.
• Ensure the accuracy, completeness, and integrity of financial information.
• Assist with month-end and year-end financial closing processes.
• Prepare monthly management accounts and financial reports for the Finance Manager.

Budgeting & Financial Planning

• Assist with the preparation, implementation, and monitoring of the annual operating and capital expenditure budgets in consultation with the Finance Manager, Principal, and Finance Committee.
• Monitor expenditure against approved budgets and investigate variances.

Audit & Compliance

• Assist in the preparation of annual financial statements and supporting schedules.
• Liaise with external auditors and provide supporting documentation during annual audits and financial reviews.
• Ensure compliance with the South African Schools Act, applicable financial regulations, and the School's Finance Policy.
• Support the implementation and maintenance of effective internal financial controls.

Asset & Insurance Management

• Maintain and reconcile the school's fixed asset register.
• Record asset acquisitions, disposals, transfers, and depreciation.
• Coordinate the annual physical verification of assets.
• Assist with the administration of insurance schedules and claims.

Stakeholder Support

• Provide financial information and reports to the Finance Manager, Senior Executive, Finance Committee, and School Governing Body as required.
• Respond to financial queries from staff and other stakeholders in a professional and timely manner.
• Assist with special financial projects and ad hoc reporting requirements.

Minimum Qualifications

• Matric / Grade 12.
• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Financial Management, Commerce, or a related field.
• Professional accounting membership advantageous (SAIPA, SAICA, CIMA, ACCA, or equivalent).

Experience & Requirements

• 5–7 years' experience in a financial accounting role.
• Experience in an educational environment will be advantageous.
• Sound knowledge of budgeting, financial reporting, and audit processes.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles and internal controls.
• Experience with accounting software such as Sage Evolution, Pastel, or similar ERP/accounting systems.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Clear criminal and credit record.

Competencies

• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• High level of integrity and professionalism.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proactive and solutions-driven approach to work.
• Adaptable, dependable, and committed to continuous improvement.

Application requirements & deadline

Submit a detailed curriculum vitae and supporting qualification certificates via email to ***email_hidden*** by 24 July 2026.

Candidates must reside in the greater Johannesburg area and have their own reliable transport.