Technical Accountant

The IFRS Technical function plays a critical role in supporting Discovery Limited Group Reporting, External Reporting, and Consolidation teams by providing well-researched technical analysis, supporting the implementation of new IFRS Accounting Standards, and assisting with the accounting treatment of complex transactions.

The IFRS Technical Accountant role is designed as a junior technical specialist position, providing hands-on analytical and execution support to the Senior IFRS Technical Accountants and the Head: IFRS Technical Accounting, while offering structured exposure to complex accounting topics within a strong governance and review framework.

The Discovery Group IFRS Technical Accountant (Specialist level) reports to the Discovery Group IFRS Technical Senior Accountant (Senior Specialist level) and operates under the overall direction and oversight of the Head: Discovery Group IFRS Technical Accounting.

The role works closely with Senior IFRS Technical Accountants, taking technical direction, guidance, and prioritisation from senior team members, with clear escalation of complex judgement matters and conclusions.

The Discovery Group IFRS Technical Accountant is responsible for supporting the execution of the IFRS Technical function’s mandate, through high-quality technical analysis, documentation, and implementation support.

The role contributes to ensuring that Discovery Group’s statutory reporting obligations are met in compliance with IFRS Accounting Standards, the South African Companies Act, and JSE Listings Requirements, while operating within a structured review, escalation, and approval framework led by Senior IFRS Technical Accountants and the Head: IFRS Technical Accounting.

Area 1: IFRS Accounting Standards (and related regulatory standards)

Support the evaluation and application of IFRS Accounting Standards and related regulatory requirements across the Discovery Group. This includes:

• Assisting in assessing compliance with IFRS Accounting Standards, JSE Listings Requirements, and the South African Companies Act in relation to transactions, interim results, and annual financial statements.
• Preparing technical analyses, position papers, and supporting documentation for review by Senior IFRS Technical Accountants and the Head: IFRS Technical Accounting.
• Supporting the preparation of papers and analysis for the Discovery Accounting Practices Committee, internal stakeholders, and external auditors, to enable informed discussion and decision-making on:
  • Accounting policies
  • Material adjustments
  • Unusual or complex transactions
  • Significant estimates and judgements
• Assisting in the maintenance and updating of Group accounting policies, manuals, and technical guidance to support consistent IFRS application across entities.
• Supporting the implementation of new and amended IFRS Accounting Standards and Interpretations, including, in the near term, IFRS 18 Presentation and Disclosure of Financial Statements and IFRS 19 Subsidiaries without Public Accountability: Disclosures.
• Contributing to finance transformation initiatives, including process improvements, automation, and the use of technology to enhance technical analysis, documentation quality, and reporting efficiency.
• Assist in preparation and presentation of IFRS training

Area 2: External reporting

Support the Group IFRS Technical and External Reporting teams in the preparation of accurate, consistent, and compliant external financial communications. This includes:

• Providing IFRS technical input and analysis for Annual Financial Statements, interim results, Results Booklets, and SENS announcements.
• Assisting with the preparation and review of disclosures, reconciliations, and technical commentary, under the guidance of Senior IFRS Technical Accountants.
• Liaising with internal stakeholders and external auditors on technical accounting matters, within defined escalation and review protocols.

Area 3: Key accounting transactions

Take day-to-day ownership for the preparation and maintenance of technical analysis and documentation relating to specific complex accounting areas, under the direction and review of Senior IFRS Technical Accountants and the Head: IFRS Technical Accounting. These areas include:

• Derivatives and hedge accounting
• Financial guarantee contracts
• Expected credit loss (ECL) methodologies and related disclosures

Responsibilities include:

• Preparing technical analyses, calculations, and supporting documentation for these areas.
• Monitoring developments in IFRS guidance and industry practice relevant to these topics.
• Supporting the application of approved accounting policies to transactions and reporting outcomes.
• Escalating judgemental matters, proposed conclusions, or changes in interpretation to Senior IFRS Technical Accountants for review and approval.
• Supporting audit queries and regulatory review processes related to these areas, under senior guidance.

Final conclusions, policy positions, and approvals remain the responsibility of Senior IFRS Technical Accountants and the Head: IFRS Technical Accounting.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage competing priorities
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to research and apply IFRS guidance
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a team-based review structure
• Ability to contribute meaningfully to complex accounting projects under guidance and supervision

Qualifications

• Qualified South African Chartered Accountant (CA(SA))
• Post CA qualification in financial reporting and/ IFRS Technical is advantageous
• Excellent knowledge of MS Office packages, including Excel, Word & PowerPoint

EMPLOYMENT EQUITY   
                             
The Company’s approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply.