Introduction
A growing organisation operating in commodity trading seeks a Trade Accountant to join its Finance Department in Stellenbosch. You will report to the Senior Trade Accountant and be responsible for the accurate accounting, reconciliation, and reporting of commodity trading transactions across physical and derivative markets. This role supports front, middle, and back office functions by ensuring timely trade monitoring, inventory valuation, profit and loss accuracy, and compliance with internal controls and external regulations across international markets.
Key Responsibilities
Record and reconcile physical and derivative commodity trades in the trading and ERP system, ensuring accurate and complete accounting
Perform inventory reconciliations including silo, warehoused and in-transit inventory; ensure accruals are accurately recorded
Reconcile purchase and sales contracts, freight, insurance, demurrage, and other trade-related costs to ensure correct reflection in accounting records
Monitor open contracts and ensure timely recognition of revenues and costs; liaise with operations, logistics, and counterparties to resolve discrepancies
Reconcile trader profit and loss to accounting records and investigate variances
Prepare monthly trade profit and loss statements for each strategy
Prepare balance sheet reconciliations related to trading activities and support month-end and year-end close processes
Ensure compliance with IFRS and US GAAP, internal accounting policies, and adherence to internal controls and segregation of duties
Assist with external audits and provide supporting documentation
Liaise with traders, operations, logistics, suppliers, and external stakeholders (banks, auditors, customs agents) to facilitate smooth operations and resolve financial matters
Support operational and strategic initiatives with financial expertise and understanding of trading economics
Contribute to system improvements and process automation initiatives
Requirements
Matric and a degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, or a related field
Two to five years' experience in trade accounting within a commodity trading, energy, or shipping environment
Proficient with Microsoft Office 365 and strong Excel skills
Experience with PeopleSoft or similar ERP systems
Teams and SharePoint proficiency
Strong understanding of the physical commodity trading lifecycle
Experience and deep understanding of profit and loss reporting and balance sheet reconciliations
High attention to detail and ability to work under time pressure
Good communication skills
Curious and self-starter mentality
Preferred: Power BI and process automation experience; experience working in a multi-currency, multi-entity environment; knowledge of derivatives and hedging instruments
We look for candidates who embody respect, accountability, passion, collaboration, excellence, agility, and integrity in their work.