Accountant – Freight Forwarding & Logistics

About the Opportunity

We are recruiting for a leading force in the freight forwarding and logistics industry. As a slot operator, this organization has established a strong presence in key markets across the Middle East, South Africa, and Southeast Asia. Their commitment to reliability and efficiency has earned them a reputation for excellence in the shipping world.

Your Cargo, Our Commitment

The Role

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Accountant to join the finance team and manage financial operations of a dynamic freight forwarding and logistics business. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in maintaining accurate financial records, ensuring compliance with accounting standards, and supporting financial decision-making across operations spanning the Middle East, South Africa, and South East Asia.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Accounting and Reporting

• Prepare and maintain accurate financial statements, including profit & loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements
• Manage accounts receivable and accounts payable processes, ensuring timely collection and payment
• Process invoices, expense reports, and financial transactions in accordance with company policies
• Reconcile bank statements, credit card statements, and other financial accounts on a monthly basis
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for management review

Freight and Logistics Accounting

• Handle specialized freight forwarding accounting including ocean freight, air freight, and multimodal transportation costs
• Manage cargo-related revenue recognition and cost allocation across different trade lanes
• Process and validate shipping documentation for accounting purposes including Bills of Lading and Commercial Invoices
• Coordinate with operations team to ensure accurate recording of freight charges, handling fees, and surcharges
• Maintain accurate records of foreign exchange transactions and currency conversions

Tax Compliance and Regulatory Requirements

• Ensure compliance with local tax regulations and accounting standards across multiple jurisdictions
• Prepare and file tax returns, VAT returns, and other regulatory submissions as required
• Coordinate with external auditors and tax consultants for audit and compliance requirements
• Maintain documentation to support tax positions and regulatory filings
• Handle customs-related financial documentation and duty calculations

Cost Management and Analysis

• Monitor and analyze operational costs including vessel costs, handling charges, and overhead expenses
• Prepare cost analysis reports to support pricing decisions and profitability assessment
• Track and report on key financial metrics and performance indicators
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and process improvements to enhance financial efficiency
• Support budget preparation and variance analysis activities

Accounts Management and Collections

• Manage customer accounts and credit terms, ensuring timely collection of outstanding receivables
• Process customer payments and resolve billing discrepancies in coordination with customer service team
• Maintain aging reports and follow up on overdue accounts through appropriate collection procedures
• Coordinate with sales team regarding customer credit limits and payment terms
• Handle vendor payments and maintain positive relationships with suppliers and service providers

Financial Systems and Controls

• Maintain accurate records in accounting software and financial management systems
• Implement and monitor internal controls to ensure accuracy and prevent fraud
• Assist in the development and improvement of financial procedures and policies
• Ensure proper documentation and filing of all financial records and supporting documents
• Support system upgrades and implementations related to financial operations

Qualifications

Education and Certification

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• Professional accounting qualification (CPA, ACCA, or equivalent) preferred
• Minimum 3-5 years of relevant accounting experience
• Experience in logistics or freight forwarding industry strongly preferred

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in accounting software (QuickBooks, SAP, or similar ERP systems)
• Advanced Excel skills including pivot tables, VLOOKUP, and financial modeling
• Knowledge of international accounting standards (IFRS) and local GAAP
• Understanding of freight forwarding operations and logistics cost structures preferred
• Familiarity with shipping documentation and cargo accounting processes

Core Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with meticulous attention to detail
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Effective communication skills for interaction with internal teams and external stakeholders
• Ability to work independently and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Knowledge of multi-currency transactions and foreign exchange accounting
• Understanding of international trade and cross-border financial transactions

Professional Attributes

• High level of integrity and ethical standards
• Proactive approach to identifying and resolving financial issues
• Adaptability to changing business needs and regulatory requirements
• Team player with collaborative mindset
• Detail-oriented with commitment to accuracy
• Strong time management and prioritization skills

Industry-Specific Knowledge

The ideal candidate will understand the unique financial aspects of the freight forwarding and logistics industry, including:

• Revenue recognition for freight services across multiple modes of transport
• Cost allocation for complex multimodal shipments
• Currency management for international transactions
• Freight-specific terminology and documentation
• Trade lane economics and profitability analysis
• Working with international counterparties and multi-jurisdictional compliance

Why This Opportunity?

Join a well-established logistics company with strong market presence across three major regions. This role offers exposure to international freight forwarding operations, multi-currency accounting, and the dynamic shipping industry. You’ll work in a fast-paced environment where your expertise will directly support business growth and operational efficiency across global trade lanes.