Business Unit Accountant, Durban, South Africa

Role Overview

An established and fast-paced manufacturing environment is seeking a Business Unit Accountant to take ownership of financial management, reporting, and operational finance functions within the business unit.

This role is ideal for a hands-on finance professional who thrives in a dynamic environment and enjoys partnering with operations to drive performance, improve controls, and support strategic decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management & Reporting

• Prepare and analyse financial reports, management accounts, and weekly sales reports
• Monitor financial performance and investigate variances against budget and forecast
• Maintain and update the ERP system and general ledger
• Prepare journals, provisions, accruals, and reconciliations

Costing & Analysis

• Perform product costing and profitability analysis
• Investigate purchase price variances (PPV) and recommend improvements
• Analyse gross profit margins and identify distressed products
• Support pricing decisions and cost recovery initiatives

Budgeting & Forecasting

• Prepare and manage operational budgets and forecasts
• Track performance and provide insights to support business planning

Cash Flow & Working Capital

• Manage cash flow, working capital, and daily cash positions
• Oversee creditors, payments, and banking processes
• Review debtors ageing and ensure timely collections

CAPEX & Fixed Assets

• Manage CAPEX processes, including ROI calculations and approvals
• Maintain fixed asset registers and monitor spend vs budget
• Track tooling and capital project performance

Compliance, Audits & Controls

• Ensure strong internal controls and corporate governance
• Prepare for internal and external audits, including year-end processes
• Manage statutory returns (VAT, PAYE, UIF, etc.)
• Identify and mitigate financial risks, including fraud prevention

Stock & Operational Support

• Oversee stock control processes and investigate variances
• Support operational teams with financial insights and analysis

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 (Matric)
• BCom Degree or Diploma in Accounting / Finance or related field
• Minimum 2+ years' experience in a finance or accounting role
• Experience in a manufacturing or plant environment is advantageous
• Strong knowledge of ERP systems (e.g. BPCS or similar)

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Solid understanding of financial controls and reporting
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Advanced Excel and MS Office skills
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Should you not receive a response within 14 days please consider your application unsuccessful. We will keep your CV on our database for any other relevant roles that may arise.