Accounts Payable Controller at CBRE Excellerate, Johannesburg

Role Purpose

We are seeking a Finance Associate to provide essential financial support to our Utility Business Unit. The primary objective of this position is to ensure all utility-related payments are processed accurately, efficiently, and on time, adhering to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). You will play a crucial role in maintaining accurate and timely expenditure recordings for the Business Unit.

Key Responsibilities

As the Finance Associate, your main duties will include:

• Payment Management: Prepare payment proposals (Draw Downs) and determine which accounts to pay or withhold.
• Processing & Filing: Prepare payment files (SAP proposal to DME upload) and ensure accurate filing of all proposals and proofs of payment.
• Account Resolution: Clear amounts due or refundable on terminated accounts prior to status change.
• Stakeholder Liaison: Act as the primary contact with Councils, Municipalities, and Eskom to resolve specific invoice queries.
• Transfer & Reconciliation: Request and follow up on inter-account transfers from external bodies until the Balance Sheet Reconciliation is complete.
• Reporting & Analysis: Analyze drawdown reports to confirm all action plans for addressing queries have been implemented.
• System Management: Oversee the management of the Drawdown and Bank accounts.
• Ad-hoc Support: Execute any additional financial or administrative duties as required by management.

What You Will Bring

Experience & Education

• Essential: Senior Certificate with Accounting as a subject.
• Preferred: Bookkeeping certification and/or a National Diploma in Accounting.
• Experience: A minimum of two (2) years’ relevant experience is essential.

Skills & Knowledge

• A strong aptitude for figures and solid financial skills.
• Adequate knowledge of the specific financial discipline.
• Familiarity with relevant legislation and regulations pertaining to municipal/government supply and service requirements.
• Specific industry knowledge related to utilities and real estate finance.
• Proficiency in Computer Literacy (especially financial systems like SAP).
• Effective Negotiation and Organizing skills.

Required Competencies

We are looking for a candidate who demonstrates:

• High integrity and adherence to principles and values.
• A focus on Delivering Results and meeting customer/stakeholder expectations.
• The ability to work collaboratively and take direction (Following Instructions and Procedures).
• A deadline-driven approach.
• The capacity to work at a fast pace without compromising accuracy and to work independently.

Reporting & Relationships

• Internal: Daily interaction with colleagues within the Business Unit and broader Division.
• External: Regular liaison with Councils, Municipalities, and Eskom.