SENIOR STATE ACCOUNTANT: EXPENDITURE CONTROL

The Senior State Accountant for Expenditure Control is a key financial management position based at the National Head Office, operating within the Financial Accounting Directorate. The role is responsible for safeguarding public funds by controlling the accounting of state monies, petty cash, and various debt accounts. As a senior official, the incumbent ensures that all financial transactions, particularly those processed on the BAS system, are accurate, compliant, and properly authorised. The position also carries supervisory responsibilities, requiring the management, training, and guidance of personnel within the expenditure control section, while ensuring that the team adheres to the norms and standards set by the Directorate. The role operates within the broader public service financial framework, and the incumbent may be required to act in higher positions on an ad hoc basis when necessary.

To be considered for this role, candidates must possess a relevant Degree or National Diploma in a finance-related field, with Financial Accounting or Cost and Management Accounting as a major subject. In addition, applicants need between three and five years of proven financial and management experience in a similar environment. Computer literacy is essential, as is a valid driver's licence. The role demands a thorough working knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act, Treasury Regulations, and the BAS and PERSAL systems. Candidates should also demonstrate strong communication skills, client orientation and customer focus, problem-solving ability, and a commitment to service delivery innovation. Project management and change management competencies are important, as is the ability to manage and empower people. Personal attributes such as integrity, honesty, confidentiality, assertiveness, and good interpersonal relations are crucial, along with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

The main duties of the Senior State Accountant include controlling the accounting of state monies and petty cash for Head Office, overseeing BAS ledger accounts and various debt accounts, and managing the payment of subsistence and travel advances. The incumbent will approve BAS sundry payment advices, journals, receipts, and telephone registers for the Financial Control Office, and ensure the correct issuing of receipts and accurate data capturing on BAS. The role also involves checking claims under the Motor Finance Scheme for senior employees, controlling Z59 salary claims, and handling the monthly telephone list as prescribed in the procedure manual. In addition to these technical tasks, the position requires managing resources, handling sensitive client queries, and ensuring that all personnel in the section comply with the Directorate's norms and standards. The incumbent also executes responsibilities as stipulated in Section 45 of the PFMA, which relates to the accountability of accounting officers and officials.

This is a permanent appointment under the Public Service Act, and the successful candidate will be expected to uphold the highest standards of financial integrity and confidentiality. The post is based at the National Head Office, and the role offers an opportunity to contribute to sound financial governance within a government department. Given the supervisory nature of the position, proven people management and empowerment skills are essential. The department values service delivery innovation and expects the incumbent to drive continuous improvement in financial processes. This summary provides an overview of the role; interested applicants should review the full vacancy details and ensure they meet all requirements before applying. The selection process will consider the competencies and attributes outlined above, and candidates must be prepared to work in a dynamic, compliance-driven environment. The position is ideal for a finance professional with strong analytical skills and a commitment to public service excellence.