Senior Accountant (Budget)

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS

• A relevant 3-year tertiary qualification, preferably a National Diploma or B Com with financial accounting as a major subject.
• Computer literacy: MS Office
• 5-8 years' relevant experience required which includes 2 years of supervisory experience.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist in preparation of annual budgets, forecasts and financial reports. Monitor budget expenditure and ensure adherence to budgetary constraints. Conduct variance analysis to identify discrepancies between the budget and actual expenditure.
• Studying Capital and Operating Budget trends and forecasts received from internal departments and preparing estimates with due consideration to internal and external funding requirements and limitations. Preparing and presenting reports detailing the status of the functionality for current and short-term budget interventions to sub-committees and strategic management planning workshops and obtaining Council resolutions to reaffirm commitment and implementation.
• Drafting budget compilation programme, evaluating and commenting on the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats arising out of budget deliverables in detailed financial reports, compiling draft and final budgets and submitting for perusal to the Chief Financial Officer and Mayoral Committee. Maintain accurate records of all financial transactions and budget adjustments. Monitor ongoing budget performance, providing timely analysis and recommendations. Ensure compliance with financial regulations and internal policies throughout the budgeting process.
• Compiling and advice on budget virements to ensure compliance with the virement policy and MSCOA. Provide assistance with Section 71 and Section 52 reports. Tracking of circular 124 conditions and compliance on monthly basis. Provide assistance with the Budget Funding Plan and Financial Recovery Plan.

OCCUPATIONAL COMPETENCIES

• Knowledge of the Municipal Finance Management Act MFMA and other related Local Government Legislation. Understanding of the Municipality Financial Reporting Framework GRAP.
• Conversant with the Municipal Standard Chart of accounts Mscoa. Good communication and writing skills. Ability to work with a team independently and ability to work under pressure. Team leader/good supervision skills and ability to transfer skills to the junior staff.