Job description

• We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Cost Management Accounting Graduate Intern to join our finance team at Supa Trade SPAR. In this internship, you will assist with cost analysis, inventory valuation, and financial reporting for our company operations. This role offers hands-on experience in cost accounting within a dynamic retail environment, providing an excellent opportunity to develop skills in budgeting, forecasting, and cost optimization.

Main Responsibilities:

• Collecting and Analyzing Operational Cost Data:
  Gather and analyze data on the costs associated with retail operations, including store expenses, supply chain logistics, and inventory management.
• Establishing Product Costing Standards:
  Set and review standard costs for retail products, considering factors like procurement, distribution, and retail pricing strategies.
• Developing and Analyzing Cost Standards:
  Develop cost benchmarks for various retail operations and analyze variances to identify cost-saving opportunities across different product categories and store locations.
• Conducting Cost-Volume-Profit (CVP) Analysis:
  Perform cost-volume-profit analysis to understand the relationship between sales, costs, and profits, with insights for optimizing pricing strategies and sales targets.
• Determining Business Process Costs:
  Establish and track costs for various retail business processes such as administrative expenses, labor, shipping, and warehousing, ensuring cost efficiency throughout operations.
• Performing Account Reconciliations:
  Reconcile operational accounts, ensuring that all expenses, revenues, and inventory costs align accurately with financial records.
• Preparing and Presenting Audit Reports:
  Prepare audit reports on retail operations, presenting findings to management and offering actionable recommendations for improving cost efficiency and profitability.
• Recommending Process and Policy Improvements:
  Suggest process and policy changes to reduce operational costs and maximize retail profitability, based on financial data and performance analysis.
• Advising Senior Management on Costing:
  Advise executives and senior managers on effective costing strategies based on operational and financial insights, helping inform decision-making in retail pricing, promotions, and inventory.
• Managing Balance Sheets and Financial Records:
  Oversee the company’s balance sheet and maintain accurate financial records related to retail operations, ensuring compliance and financial integrity.
• Supporting Accounting Team with Invoicing and Capex:
  Assist other members of the finance team with invoicing, capital expenditure tracking, and other accounting functions related to retail operations.

Desired Experience & Qualification

• A degree/advanced Diploma in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (recently graduated).
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; experience with accounting software is a plus.
• A keen interest in retail operations and cost management.

Competencies:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Basic Knowledge of financial concepts
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Willingness to learn, take initiative, and adapt to a fast-paced environment.

Requirements:

• Must be a South African citizen or have a valid work permit.
• Recently certified ID and qualifications not older than 3 Months.
• Must be able to commit to 12 months.
• Recently certified Degree/Advanced Diploma in Accounting, Finance, or related field not older than 3 Months.