Company: BDO South Africa
Location: Cape Town CBD
Contract Type: 3-Year Training Contract
Industry: Audit and Financial Services
Positions Available: 25
Date Posted: 22 September 2025
Job Reference Number: BDOWAVE-GR65-ACCA26-CTN-22SEP25-MM
About BDO South Africa
BDO South Africa is part of the global BDO network, one of the largest international professional services firms providing audit, tax, advisory, and business services. The BDO Wave division is a specialised Extended Delivery Team supporting BDO UK in delivering excellence, agility, and value across audit and advisory engagements.
The 2026 ACCA Traineeship offers graduates the opportunity to build their careers within a globally recognised brand, while working on high-profile audit assignments across diverse industries. This is more than a traineeship—it is a launchpad for a future in international finance and accounting.
Role Overview
The ACCA Traineeship is a three-year training contract that provides graduates with the experience and structured learning required to register as a Chartered Certified Accountant with ACCA.
The January 2026 intake is based in Cape Town, where first-year trainees will join BDO Wave’s Audit division. The training contract will ensure that trainees are supported through the ACCA exams, mentored by experienced professionals, and equipped with practical skills that integrate theory with real-world application.
This role is ideal for graduates with an ACCA-accredited degree who are ambitious, driven, and eager to grow in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
Key Responsibilities
Audit (Technical)
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Assist in the delivery of audits from planning to completion, gaining exposure to the full audit cycle.
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Support planning by preparing documentation, creating system notes, and contributing to risk assessments.
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Execute audit procedures across financial statement areas including payroll, cash and bank, revenue, cost of sales, expenses, and property, plant, and equipment.
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Evaluate audit evidence to identify potential risks of material misstatement and document findings.
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Escalate issues to senior team members and contribute to resolving audit queries.
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Assist in completion procedures, including final analytical reviews, clearing queries, preparing checklists, and drafting audit reports.
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Apply professional judgement to link audit findings with business risks and industry context.
Administration
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Complete monthly feedback forms with input from managers.
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Track and update monthly skills reviews in the Learning & Training System (LTS).
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Participate in team presentations and deliver professional presentations.
Studying and Development
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Progress towards the ACCA qualification with structured support and mentorship.
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Balance study and work commitments with resilience and discipline.
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Apply theoretical ACCA knowledge in real audit scenarios.
Study Support Provided
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Exam and tuition costs covered by BDO Wave (first attempt).
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Access to approved Learning Service Providers.
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Paid study leave for exam preparation.
Entry Requirements
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Education: ACCA-accredited degree from an approved university with auditing as a major subject, preferably completed in 2024 or 2025.
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Skills and Competencies:
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Strong willingness to learn and contribute proactively.
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Ability to handle and manage stress effectively.
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Commitment to meeting deadlines and thriving under pressure.
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Excellent command of English (written and spoken).
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Strong interpersonal and communication skills for engaging with stakeholders.
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Flexibility regarding working hours when required.
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Strong organisational and project management skills.
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High attention to detail and commitment to quality.
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Team-oriented, but also capable of working independently.
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Dedication to self-development and professional growth.
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Why Join BDO Wave?
Joining the BDO Wave ACCA Traineeship means entering a world-class environment where your growth is a priority. You will:
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Gain international exposure by supporting audit engagements for UK-based clients.
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Build a solid foundation in audit, financial reporting, and professional judgement.
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Be mentored by industry leaders and supported in achieving your ACCA designation.
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Work in a collaborative, diverse, and innovative environment.
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Benefit from study support, structured training, and career progression opportunities.
Equal Opportunity Statement
BDO South Africa is committed to creating a workplace that celebrates diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will be considered, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, or background.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about pursuing a career as a Chartered Certified Accountant and meet the requirements, apply online through the official BDO South Africa careers portal:
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