The VKB Group, a well-established agricultural company, is offering a valuable opportunity for a Finance Graduate to gain practical experience in the field of finance. This position, based in Reitz, Free State, is a contract-based opportunity that allows a young finance professional to develop key skills while working in a dynamic agribusiness environment.
About VKB Group
The VKB Group has deep roots in agriculture, serving as a key partner for farmers and the agricultural industry. With a strong presence across South Africa, the company operates a “house of brands” approach, including VKB, GWK, and NTK, offering a wide range of agricultural and food-related products. The company’s operations extend beyond farming, covering the entire food supply chain, from production to processing, logistics, and market distribution.
As part of its commitment to nurturing young talent, VKB Group provides various career development opportunities, including graduate programs aimed at equipping young professionals with the necessary skills to thrive in the corporate and agricultural finance sectors.
The Finance Graduate Role
The Finance Graduate position is designed to provide hands-on training and experience in key financial functions within the company. Reporting to the Finance Team, the selected candidate will be involved in a range of financial activities, from creditors and debtors management to general finance and administration. This role offers an excellent foundation for a future career in financial management.
Job Responsibilities
The Finance Graduate will be responsible for assisting in several core financial functions, including:
1. Creditors Management
- Processing invoices and verifying supporting documentation.
- Ensuring payments are authorized and processed efficiently.
- Monitoring outstanding balances and reconciling creditor accounts.
- Handling supplier queries and maintaining accurate financial records.
2. Debtors Management
- Preparing and issuing invoices and statements to customers.
- Following up on outstanding payments and addressing customer queries.
- Maintaining a structured and accurate filing system for debtor accounts.
- Reconciling accounts and ensuring all records are up to date.
3. General Finance & Administration
- Maintaining general and sub-ledgers, processing journal entries, and assisting with financial reporting.
- Supporting both internal and external audits.
- Assisting with month-end financial processing and reporting.
- Helping to maintain the company’s asset register and financial documentation.
Qualifications and Requirements
To be considered for the Finance Graduate position, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Educational Requirements
- A BCom degree in Accounting or Financial Management is required.
Technical Skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, and Outlook).
- Familiarity with financial systems, particularly NAV System (Microsoft Dynamics NAV).
- A solid understanding of VAT regulations and reporting standards.
Work Experience
- This position is specifically designed for graduates who are entering the job market for the first time.
- Candidates must not have participated in any previous internship or graduate program.
Work Conditions
- The successful candidate must be willing to work overtime, including weekends, when necessary.
Key Skills Required
To excel in this role, the Finance Graduate should possess the following key skills:
1. Financial and Technical Skills
- A strong grasp of financial systems and the ability to manage accounts efficiently.
- Understanding of financial procedures, regulatory compliance, and reporting standards.
2. Communication & Interpersonal Skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
- Strong interpersonal skills to interact with colleagues, suppliers, and customers effectively.
3. Analytical & Organisational Abilities
- A keen eye for detail and the ability to analyze financial data accurately.
- Effective time management skills and the ability to meet deadlines.
4. Adaptability & Confidentiality
- The ability to work independently while handling confidential financial data responsibly.
- A flexible mindset to adapt to changes in financial processes and company policies.
Why Choose VKB Group?
The VKB Group is a leading agribusiness that provides a stable and growth-oriented working environment. By joining the Finance Graduate program, candidates will benefit from:
- Practical, hands-on experience in a corporate financial setting.
- Exposure to agricultural finance and a broader understanding of how finance supports agribusiness operations.
- Learning and development opportunities within a reputable organization.
- Potential career advancement within VKB Group, depending on performance and available opportunities.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The VKB Group is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce. The company adheres to its approved Employment Equity Plan and Transformation Strategy, ensuring fair recruitment practices. As an equal opportunity employer, VKB Group encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including People with Disabilities.
Application Process
Candidates interested in applying for the Finance Graduate position should note the following:
- Application Deadline: 10 March 2025
- The company reserves the right to close the application process early if necessary.
- If applicants do not receive a response within four weeks of the closing date, they should consider their application unsuccessful.
This Finance Graduate position at VKB Group presents an excellent opportunity for a recent BCom Accounting or Financial Management graduate to gain valuable experience in an established agribusiness. The selected candidate will acquire hands-on financial skills, work with a professional finance team, and develop key competencies for a successful career in finance.
For those passionate about finance and agriculture, this opportunity provides an ideal platform to grow within a reputable company that values innovation, teamwork, and excellence.
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply before the deadline and take the first step toward building a promising career in finance with VKB Group.
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