Chartered Accountant
Job overview
Chartered accountants prepare financial statements for presentation to the public.
They act as consultants on financial matters, taxation, accounting, computer systems and estate planning and management.
The appointments they hold can include those of executor, liquidator, trustee and curator.
What do people do in this job?
Chartered accountants have as their prime responsibility the task of reporting to a client?'?s shareholders on the financial statements issued by that client, as required by the organisation?'?s constitution or by legislation.
To do this, chartered accountants examine the client?'?s books and records, considering the adequacy of the controls over the safekeeping of the client's assets, and the fairness of the financial statements prepared by the client for presentation to its shareholders or the public.
Chartered accountants compile reports for use by the client in improving the management of the company.
They investigate the client?'?s accounting methods and, if appropriate, make recommendations for their improvement.
Chartered accountants investigate and report on the financial reports of the company?
Chartered accountants assist in the installation of computerised systems, the development of programmes and the planning of financial models and give advice on hard-and software purchases.
Chartered accountants are tax specialists and advise on legal ways of saving tax.
Chartered accountants should be well versed in mercantile and company law and be able to handle the legal aspects of contracts and estate planning.
They should be qualified and willing to accept appointments as trustees in insolvent estates, liquidators of insolvent companies or as curators of the affairs of people unable to handle them themselves.
Chartered accountants who specialise in a career in commerce and industry normally advance to positions in top management, such as financial directors.
In this position accountants are responsible for controlling the funds and assets of the company or institution, preparing financial or management reports to top management and interpreting them so as to increase efficiency and profitability.
What kinds of people are suitable for this career?
Integrity, intelligence, good judgement, a strong analytical predisposition and determination are required if one is to be successful, coupled with a capacity for hard work and the ability to present recommendations clearly and accurately.
What qualifications are needed?
Today a four-year degree in accountancy is the normal basic qualification, although not obligatory.
In addition, several years of work-related experience or on-the-job training is expected.
