Accountant

Thinking About Becoming an Accountant? Let’s Break It Down..

If you're already managing ledgers, reviewing journal entries, and preparing reports for decision-makers, then you're not “just in finance,” you're the heartbeat of business performance.

This is the step where your work moves from processing to interpreting. From rules to judgement. From data to value.

Accountants are the translators of financial data. They ensure accuracy, compliance, and clarity in reporting—turning numbers into insight.

  •  Compile financial statements and monthly management accounts

  • Interpret and explain variances and cash flow trends

  • Assist in budgeting, forecasting, and year-end processes

  • Ensure regulatory and tax compliance

  • Support decision-making by presenting financial insights

“Accountants don’t just close the books. They open the conversation.”

Where Do Accountants Work?

You’ll find business accountants in almost every sector—because every business needs someone who understands what the numbers mean.

  • Corporate finance teams (large and small)

  • Audit and accounting firms

  • NGOs and public benefit organisations

  • Universities and educational institutions

  • Government departments and municipalities

  • Freelance and outsourced CFO services

What Skills Do You Need?

Here’s what employers and clients expect at this level:

Strong grasp of IFRS and tax principles
Proficiency in accounting systems (e.g. Sage, Xero, SAP, QuickBooks)
Analytical and reporting skills
Ability to explain finance to non-financial people
Integrity, professional judgement, and attention to detail

You're the bridge between data and decisions.

 How Much Do Accountants Earn?

Accounting salaries reflect technical skill, responsibility, and your ability to communicate with management:

Chart displaying salary levels in ZAR: Entry Level R22,000-R30,000, Mid-Level R30,000-R45,000, Senior R45,000-R70,000+, Freelance Hourly R500-R1,200.

Holding a designation like CBAC increases your trustworthiness, and your rates.

What Skills Do You Need?

Here’s what employers and clients expect at this level:

Strong grasp of IFRS and tax principles
Proficiency in accounting systems (e.g. Sage, Xero, SAP, QuickBooks)
Analytical and reporting skills
Ability to explain finance to non-financial people
Integrity, professional judgement, and attention to detail

You're the bridge between data and decisions.

What Skills Do You Need?

Here’s what employers and clients expect at this level:

  • Strong grasp of IFRS and tax principles

  • Proficiency in accounting systems (e.g. Sage, Xero, SAP, QuickBooks)

  • Analytical and reporting skills

  • Ability to explain finance to non-financial people

  • Integrity, professional judgement, and attention to detail

  • You're the bridge between data and decisions.

What’s the Career Path?

Most financial professionals follow a journey like this:

Start → Bookkeeper or Financial Administrator
Next → Business Accountant (CBAC)
Then → Financial Manager or Financial Controller
Eventually → CFO, Sector Specialist, Consultant, or Entrepreneur

CBAC is the foundation for moving into senior management roles.


Circular diagram illustrating five steps of financial management: Record, Prepare, Report, Plan, Lead, with each step numbered from 1 to 5, surrounded by terminology related to chartered accountancy and finance.
Circular diagram illustrating the outsourced finance department process with five main steps: Lead, Prepare, Report, Plan, and Lead, encircled by supporting roles including Bookkeeper, Accounting Officer, Financial Admin, and Internal Review, along with business advisory services and specialist licenses.

The CIBA Way

Let’s be honest. A lot of brilliant accountants get stuck without the title or recognition. Employers overlook them. Clients undervalue them.

That’s why we created the Chartered Business Accountant in Commerce (CBAC) designation.

 A designation built for real-world commerce
Recognises both your academic and workplace achievements
Shows that you’re committed to ethics, CPD, and professional standards
Helps you stand out to employers, clients, and regulators

You’ve put in the work. Now claim the title that reflects it.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Start your journey toward Chartered recognition as a Business Accountant in Commerce (CBAC). It’s how you prove your value—and increase it