EASYUNI Ultimate University Guide 2013 Issue 2 | Page 14

CO U R S E S & C A REERS 4. Payroll accountant A payroll accountant is generally responsible for balancing accounts within a company or organisation’s accounting system and prepares accounting documents, schedules and summaries. They may also be involved in assessing the need for new accounts, conduct reviews, advise payroll staff on the treatment of complex transactions and perform internal audits. 5. Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Services by Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) range from helping an individual develop a personal financial plan to assisting a business owner with things such as tax planning, financial statement analysis and understanding complex financial transactions for business decision-making. Most payroll accountants have earned at least a bachelor’s degree, such as the Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Payroll accounting covers a wide range of duties and is an essential area in any successful business. The role of the payroll accountant has increased in prominence year on year as changes in industry regulations, compliance, legislation and audit controls require that organisations ensure their payroll and accounting procedures remain compliant and robust. Payroll accounting duties can vary from the timely and accurate reconciliation and approval of payrolls, reconciliation of general ledger accounts, payroll control account, employee benefit contributions through to P35 and year end balances. 6. Internal and external auditor Internal and external auditors typically perform similar work, though an internal review is generally more focused on risk management and internal control procedures. An internal auditor normally reviews his organisation’s procedures and operations closely, confirming that they are being followed correctly and that they support the organisation’s goals and objectives. After examining processes and procedures, the internal audit department reports its findings and works closely with auditees to provide accurate and pertinent recommendations that help the organisation to adhere more closely to its objectives. An external auditor is a third-party professional who performs an independent review of an organisation’s financial records. Generally reporting to an audit committee of company executives, he evaluates accounting, payroll and purchasing records, as well as anything related to financial investments and loans, searching for any mistakes or