Bookkeeper Internship

Company: The Cape Town Opera Company
Reports to: Head of Finance
Location: Artscape Theatre Centre, Cape Town, South Africa

We are excited to announce that we have a 12-month internship opportunity available for a bookkeeper. 

Company Overview

Established in 1999 as a non-profit performing arts company, Cape Town Opera is based at the Artscape Theatre Centre in the Foreshore area of Cape Town and is currently South Africa’s only full-time opera company. The recipient of two International Opera Awards, annual activities include fully staged opera productions in Cape Town, national music education programs for primary and secondary school learners, and national and international touring of operas and concerts. The company has a current staff complement of 4 soloists, 19 chorus members, 9 young artists and 28 artistic and administrative staff, overseen by a seven-member Board of Directors.

Position Overview

Cape Town Opera is seeking a bookkeeper intern to join our team. As a vital member of our organization, you will be responsible for ensuring the smooth financial operations of our company, enabling us to continue delivering outstanding performances and inspiring audiences around the world.

Applicant requirements

The ideal applicant possesses the following:

  1. Excellent knowledge of accounting software such as Xero;
  2. Proficiency in Microsoft Office;
  3. Familiarity with South African accounting principles and standards;
  4. Ability to prioritize work effectively and meet deadlines;
  5. Detail-oriented and able to spot errors and discrepancies;
  6. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
  7. A Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field would be an advantage;
  8. Must be legally able to work in South Africa.

Applicant responsibilities

The key responsibilities of the Bookkeeper intern are:

  1. Maintain accurate financial records for Cape Town Opera;
  2. Process and record all financial transactions;
  3. Prepare financial reports and statements for management and external stakeholders;
  4. Assist with budget preparation and monitoring;
  5. Reconcile bank statements and accounts payable/receivable;
  6. Manage payroll input and employee expense claims;
  7. Coordinate with auditors during annual audits;
  8. Assist with grant applications and reporting to funders;
  9. Ensure compliance with accounting and financial reporting standards.

Key performance indicators

The following KPIs will apply to the position:

  1. Accuracy: a low number of errors in financial record keeping;
  2. Timeliness: complete tasks in a timely manner and on deadline;
  3. Compliance: meet all applicable standards and regulations;
  4. Cost control: control costs as much as possible without compromising accuracy or quality;
  5. Communication: provide timely and accurate information to those who need it.

This opportunity is open to candidates that:

  1. Have a minimum qualification of matric.
  2. Must be a South African citizen.
  3. Are between 18 and 34 years of age.
  4. Have never held a full-time position before and preferably have not participated on a learnership or internship before.
  5. Live within 50 kms from the Artscape Theatre Centre, Cape Town.
  6. Are not currently in full time studies and able to attend this internship full time.
  7. Are willing to be subjected to a credit and criminal check or any industry specific checks required for your job role.
  8. Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups and people with disabilities in accordance with the organisation employment equity plan.

Application Procedure:

The position is a one-year contract commencing 01 July 2024 and the end date is 30 June 2025. We are based at the Cape Town Opera offices at the Artscape building in Cape Town

The deadline for applications is Tuesday, 30 April 2024.

Please submit:

  1. A motivational letter detailing your specific interest in and skills applicable to the position.
  2. Your CV.
  3. Three contactable references.

Please note that applications that do not meet all three of the requirements listed above will not be considered.

Applications should be sent via email to geraldp@capetownopera.co.za ; all information will be kept confidential.

Cape Town Opera celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all employees.

Cape Town Opera reserves the right not to make an appointment.