ACCA Trainee Accountant Opportunity at BDO South Africa

The ACCA Trainee Accountant opportunity at BDO South Africa is a comprehensive 3-year training contract designed to equip aspiring professionals with the necessary experience to register as a Chartered Certified Accountant with ACCA. This program is tailored for the January 2027 intake, with first-year trainees commencing their journey within the BDO Wave Audit division based in Gqeberha. This traineeship is more than just a job; it's a structured pathway to professional accreditation, offering robust support for your strategic level exams and ensuring you achieve the competencies required for ACCA registration.

As a BDO Wave Audit professional, you will operate in a fast-paced and intellectually stimulating environment, playing a crucial role in delivering exceptional client service. You will gain generalist expertise and invaluable experience across a broad spectrum of commercial sectors, providing a holistic understanding of audit practices and business operations. This role is ideal for dedicated individuals who are keen to learn, bring energy and aspiration to the audit team, and are committed to their professional development. The program is meticulously designed to foster your growth, both technically and professionally, within a globally recognized firm.

Study support

• Exam and tuition costs covered by BDO Wave for the first attempt of your ACCA Strategic Level exams.
• Lecture preparation with an approved Learning Service Provider covered by BDO Wave.
• Paid study leave.

Roles & Responsibilities

Audit (Technical)

• Assist in the delivery of audits from planning through to completion, gaining exposure to the full audit cycle.
• Support planning activities by preparing audit planning documents, creating system notes, and contributing to risk assessments.
• During execution, perform audit procedures across financial statement areas such as payroll, cash and bank, revenue, cost of sales, expenses, and property, plant and equipment (PPE).
• Evaluate evidence to assess whether there is a risk of material misstatement within financial data and document findings clearly.
• Escalate issues identified to senior team members and assist in resolving queries.
• Contribute to completion procedures, including final analytical reviews, clearing outstanding queries, preparing completion checklists, and assisting in drafting audit reports.
• Develop professional judgement by linking audit findings to business risks and industry context.

Administration

• Complete monthly feedback forms by requesting input from managers on work performed during audit engagements.
• Track and update monthly skills reviews within the Learning & Training System (LTS) to monitor competencies obtained, supporting sign-off at the end of the training contract.
• Prepare and deliver presentations, and actively participate in team presentations to build professional communication skills.

Why Join BDO South Africa

BDO South Africa offers a vibrant and supportive environment where your career can truly flourish. As a global network, BDO provides unparalleled opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and exposure to diverse industries and clients. You will be part of a firm that values its people, fostering a culture of collaboration, integrity, and excellence. The comprehensive study support and structured training program demonstrate BDO's commitment to your success, ensuring you are well-equipped to achieve your ACCA qualification. Joining BDO means becoming part of a team that is dedicated to making a meaningful impact for clients and communities, while also investing significantly in your personal and professional development.

How to Apply

Please apply using the Quick Apply button on this page.

• ACCA accredited degree from an approved university with auditing as one of the major subjects, preferably completed 2025 or 2026

• Keen willingness to learn and bring energy and aspiration to the audit team

• Ability to handle and manage stress

• Ability to meet tight deadlines and work well under pressure

• Excellent command of English, both written and spoken

• Excellent communication skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills for internal and external stakeholder relationship management

• Flexible in terms of working hours when required

• Project management skills

• High attention to detail and commitment to quality

• Team player

• Demonstrate a commitment to self-development and growth

• Ability to work within diverse teams

• Strong organisational ability.