Part-time Accountant CA(SA)

Job Description

A financial services firm is seeking a highly motivated and detail-orientated Accountant CA (SA)to play a pivotal role in implementing Zero-Based Budgeting (ZBB) for one of their divisions. This initiative is critical to achieving their strategic goal of reaching free-cashflow break-even by June 30, 2025. This is an independent contract, working 4-5 hours per day. The role is mainly remote with some time spent in-office (half-day, once a week in Franschhoek and Stellenbosch area based at one of their clients' offices). Once the candidate gets more familiar with the work they will be able to work remotely. 

In this role you will be a strategic partner working closely with various teams to gather data, analyse expenditures and develop comprehensive budgets that support operational efficiency and financial goals. This role requires meticulous attention to detail, proactive problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to achieving budgetary objectives that empower operational efficiency and financial sustainability within the division.

Responsibilities:

Data Collection and Analysis: Lead the process of collecting and organising essential data related to team headcount, labour costs, operational scales (e.g., road kilometres, building gross building area), procurement costs, and fixed asset registers.

Procurement and Supplier Management: Collaborate with team leaders to forecast activities and identify preferred suppliers based on negotiated terms. Develop monthly cost breakdowns using the 80/20 principle.

Fixed Asset Management: Maintain a detailed register of vehicles, equipment, and assets. Evaluate useful life, repair & maintenance costs and projected expenditures.

Capex Planning: Coordinate with relevant stakeholders to plan and schedule capital expenditures related to irrigation automation, building maintenance, utilities (water, electricity), and fire safety infrastructure.

Utilities Management: Monitor and analyse consumption patterns for fuel, electricity, water, waste water, and fibre usage across operating areas. Project and manage costs effectively.

Risk Assessment and Contingency Planning: Evaluate security costs, insurance premiums, and contingency funds for unforeseen expenses. Develop strategies to mitigate financial risks.

Revenue Forecasting: Analyse and project revenue streams from residential and commercial rentals, levies and sales (e.g., compost). Ensure revenue targets align with budgetary goals.

Budget Consolidation and Reporting: Lead the consolidation of budget proposals, conducting thorough reviews and adjustments as needed. Present finalised budgets to management for approval.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field.

Proven experience in budget analysis, financial planning, or similar roles.

Familiarity with Zero-Based Budgeting (ZBB) principles and methodologies.

Strong analytical skills and proficiency in data manipulation using spreadsheet software (e.g., Excel).

Excellent organisational and communication skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.

Ability to prioritise tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing requirements.

Working Schedule and Approach:

The Budget Analyst will adhere to a structured timeline for budget development, collaborating with team members as follows:

Mondays & Tuesdays: Independently gather and compile necessary data.

Wednesdays: Participate in extended management meetings (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM) for collaborative budget review and guidance.

Thursdays & Fridays: Finalise weekly budget information and submit to relevant stakeholders by close of business each Friday.

Benefits

This is an independent contract, working 4-5 hours per day.