ABSA Group
SAICA / CIMA Trainee Accountant
Company: ABSA Group
Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng
Job Type: Graduate Programme
Posted: 19 November 2025
About ABSA Group
ABSA Group is one of South Africa’s leading banks, with over a century of history and a strong regional and international presence. We are committed to empowerment, growth and building a proudly African future for our clients, employees and communities.
Role Overview
ABSA is offering a one‑year internship that supports students and recent graduates to qualify as Chartered Accountants (SAICA) or Chartered Management Accountants (CIMA). The programme blends theoretical learning (delivery by a recognised training provider) with practical, on‑the‑go experience across our banking operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Accounting & External Reporting
- Choose appropriate accounting frameworks and policies.
- Record and analyze routine and non‑routine transactions (sales, cost of sales, M&A, provisions, etc.).
- Perform reconciliations (bank, accounts payable, general ledger, etc.).
- Prepare financial statements, notes, and non‑financial disclosures (Directors’ Report, Sustainability Report).
- Calculate and interpret financial ratios and provide performance insights.
- Financial Management
- Analyse financial position using ratio, trend and cash‑flow analysis.
- Prepare cash‑flow forecasts and working‑capital assessments.
- Recommend actions to improve liquidity, capital structure and funding options.
- Support capital budgeting and valuation exercises.
- Management Decision Making
- Develop key performance indicators and review measurement systems.
- Prepare budgets, conduct variance analysis and sensitivity studies.
- Evaluate cost allocation methods and propose cost‑control improvements.
- Taxation
- Calculate income tax for individuals and entities, preparing returns.
- Handle withholding tax, VAT, customs duties, and PAYE/SDL/UIF filings.
- Internal Audit & Risk Management
- Identify and document business risks across financial, operational and IT areas.
- Assess internal controls and recommend enhancements.
- Test IT and application controls, reporting findings to supervisors.
- Review governance structures and corporate governance practices.
- Audit & Assurance
- Document internal control systems and perform tests.
- Ensure controls prevent material misstatement.
- Communicate audit findings with external stakeholders.
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Honours in Accounting or CIMA (or equivalent).
Employment Conditions
Interns based in South Africa will work a 12‑month, 24‑month or 36‑month contract. They will have access to ABSA facilities, systems and will be paid directly through the ABSA Group payroll.
ABSA Group is an equal‑opportunity employer and promotes a diverse workforce. Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups to support equitable representation.
Application Process
Open until filled. To apply, please visit the link below.