Senior Accountant – Export Industry

Purpose of the Role

The Senior Accountant – Export Industry is responsible for managing the full accounting function related to export operations, ensuring accurate financial reporting, foreign exchange management, and compliance with international trade regulations.

This role plays a critical part in supporting global trade activities by delivering reliable financial information, maintaining regulatory compliance, and managing the complexities of multi-currency and cross-border transactions.

Key Objectives

• Oversee the full accounting function for export-related transactions
• Manage foreign currency accounts and forex exposure
• Ensure compliance with exchange control regulations and export requirements
• Provide accurate financial reporting and management accounts
• Support international trade operations through financial insight and control
• Improve processes relating to export finance, documentation, and compliance

Key Responsibilities

Export Accounting & Financial Control

• Manage the full accounting function for export transactions
• Maintain accurate records of multi-currency transactions
• Ensure correct treatment of foreign exchange gains and losses
• Oversee reconciliations of foreign currency bank accounts
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards and financial policies

Foreign Exchange & Treasury Management

• Monitor and account for forex transactions and exposures
• Manage exchange rate fluctuations and their financial impact
• Work with banking partners on foreign payments, collections, and treasury matters
• Process and track international receipts and payments

Export Documentation & Compliance

• Review and verify export documentation, including:
  • Commercial invoices
  • Packing lists
  • Bills of lading
  • Certificates of origin
• Ensure compliance with exchange control regulations and international trade requirements
• Maintain adherence to VAT regulations (including zero-rated VAT on exports)
• Support audits and regulatory reviews related to export transactions

Revenue Collection & Trade Finance

• Manage letters of credit (LCs) and ensure compliance with terms
• Handle international payment terms (advance payments, open account, documentary collections)
• Liaise with banks, freight forwarders, and clearing agents
• Monitor and manage accounts receivable related to export activities

Management Reporting & Month-End

• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports
• Produce management accounts with variance analysis
• Analyse financial performance and highlight risks and opportunities
• Ensure timely and accurate month-end close processes

Audit & Compliance

• Assist with internal and external audits
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations and internal controls
• Maintain audit-ready documentation across export transactions

Team Support & Process Improvement

• Provide guidance and support to junior accounting staff
• Identify and implement process improvements in export finance and reporting
• Enhance financial controls and reporting efficiencies

Qualifications

• BCom Accounting or equivalent (essential)
• Professional qualification (SAICA, SAIPA, CIMA or similar) advantageous

Experience

• Minimum 5+ years’ experience in a senior accounting role
• Proven experience in the export industry (essential)
• Strong exposure to multi-currency accounting and forex management
• Experience with export documentation and international trade processes
• Experience with ERP/accounting systems
• Advanced Excel skills

Knowledge & Technical Competencies

• In-depth understanding of foreign exchange and multi-currency accounting
• Knowledge of export regulations, exchange control, and VAT on exports
• Understanding of letters of credit and international payment mechanisms
• Familiarity with Incoterms and international trade practices (advantageous)
• Strong grasp of financial reporting and accounting standards

Key Skills & Attributes

• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Excellent organisational and time management skills
• Effective communication and stakeholder engagement
• Ability to work independently under pressure and meet deadlines
• Proactive, solutions-driven mindset

Key Behaviours

• Takes ownership and accountability for financial outcomes
• Maintain high levels of integrity and professionalism
• Demonstrates strong focus on compliance and risk management
• Works collaboratively across teams and external stakeholders
• Continuously seeks process improvement and efficiency gains