IGrow Wealth Investments, South Africa's #1 Property Investment Company, is looking for a Financial Manager with experience in trust accounting to join their team in their Legal division which specialises in Transfers and Bonds.Job SummaryThe Financial Manager for a Conveyancing Attorney will be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, managing trust and business accounts, and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards specific to conveyancing and property transactions.
The role involves overseeing the day-to-day financial operations of the firm, including reconciliations, tax filings, billing, and financial reporting.
The Financial Manager will play a key role in ensuring that the firm's financial operations are compliant, efficient, and transparent.To qualify for this position, you must have the qualification and experience:Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (CPA/CA or equivalent qualification is highly desirable).3-5+ years of experience in accounting, experience in legal or conveyancing firms preferred.Experience with trust account management and compliance with legal financial regulations (Attorneys Act).Proficiency in legal accounting software and general accounting software.
JAC accounting software (advantage)Experience and good knowledge of Legal Trust accounting, IFRS for SMEs, VAT and Income Tax.Technical proficiency in LexisNexis, Caseware Working Papers and Xero Accounting.Furthermore, the ideal candidate must have strong administration skills, excellent communication skills, both verbally and written, and be able to deliver an outstanding client service.The ability to work independently and proactively is a prerequisite.Excellent organizational and time management skills.Attention to detail and high level of accuracy.Knowledge of conveyancing procedures and legal requirements for property transactions is an advantage.Duties and responsibilities include, but not limited to:Trust Account ManagementMaintain and manage trust accounts in strict compliance with legal regulations, ensuring that client funds are accurately recorded and reconciled.Reconcile daily and monthly trust account transactions related to property transfers, deposits, and other conveyancing activities.Ensure that all trust account disbursements are compliant with regulatory requirements and properly documented.Financial Record KeepingMaintain accurate and up-to-date financial records, including general ledger maintenance for both trust and business accounts.Record all financial transactions related to conveyancing, ensuring proper allocation to the correct accounts.Manage cashbooks and prepare necessary journal entries for month-end and year-end reporting.Billing & CollectionsGenerate and issue invoices for conveyancing services, ensuring accuracy in legal fees, transfer duties, and other related costs.Track and manage accounts receivable, ensuring timely collections from clients.Handle client queries related to invoices and payments, resolving issues in a timely manner.Bank ReconciliationsPerform regular reconciliations of both trust and business bank accounts to ensure all transactions are accurately reflected.Investigate and resolve any discrepancies identified during the reconciliation process.Compliance & AuditsEnsure the firm's financial activities comply with regulatory requirements, including the Attorneys Act, trust account regulations, and local tax laws.Prepare documentation and assist with internal and external audits, particularly those related to trust account management.Ensure that financial records are maintained in compliance with audit requirements.Financial ReportingAssist in preparing monthly financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports for the business and trust accounts.Provide regular financial reports to the Group Financial Manager and partners, highlighting key financial metrics and trends.Help in preparing financial reports for regulatory bodies and auditors, ensuring transparency and accuracy.Tax Management & ComplianceCalculate and file VAT returns, ensuring compliance with tax regulations.Assist with preparing and filing income tax returns for the firm and ensuring timely payment of taxes.Keep abreast of tax law changes that may affect the firm's financial obligations.Payroll ProcessingManage and process payroll for the firm's employees, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and timely disbursements.Record payroll transactions and ensure proper accounting for deductions such as taxes and benefits.Expense ManagementMonitor and control firm expenses, including operating costs, employee reimbursements, and vendor payments.Ensure all expenses are correctly recorded and documented for internal control purposes.Support for Conveyancing TransactionsAssist with managing the financial aspects of property transactions, including the receipt and disbursement of funds related to property transfers.Liaise with clients, banks, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth financial transactions during the conveyancing process.Key CompetenciesTrust Account ManagementCompliance & Regulatory KnowledgeFinancial Accuracy & Record KeepingAnalytical & Problem-Solving SkillsAttention to DetailCommunication & TeamworkTime Management & Organization
