What is an Associate Technician AT(SA)
Accounting Technicians play a crucial role in the financial management of businesses of all sizes and in all sectors of the economy.
When Accounting Technicians are empowered with appropriate technical knowledge and skills, they can take on the day-to-day practical work of accountancy and play a key operational role in producing reliable financial information. In larger organizations, this allows senior accounting staff to play a more proactive and strategic role. In smaller businesses, Accounting Technicians will often be involved in all aspects of financial management, delivering high-quality financial information to support business planning, facilitate access to credit, and expand operations.
Accounting Technicians assist senior accountants, using manual or computerized systems to process invoices, receipts and payments, completing and submitting tax returns, managing payroll and expenses, producing monthly accounts, planning and controlling budgets, etc. The more experienced Accounting Technicians may also provide information necessary for budgeting, tax compliance, audits and consulting, and all tasks requiring an understanding of accounting systems and how they are best used.
Accounting Technicians have successfully completed a prescribed program of education, training, and assessment, and will have access to continuing professional development (CPD). They are subject to monitoring, investigation, and discipline to ensure adherence to international standards and codes of ethics. They work across organizations, in commerce and industry, the public sector, and private practice. Alongside the senior accountants, Accounting Technicians often contribute to the sustainability, relevance, and credibility of an organisation. Some choose to stay within this membership category, while others see it as a pathway to becoming a senior accountant.
Accounting Technicians contribute to the:
- Improvement of financial management practices and service delivery to customers.
Accounting Technicians help deliver best practice financial skills and processes and improved customer service, which are the essential underpinning factors in successful organizations.
- Better assessment of fiscal and monetary policy decisions.
Accurate information, provided by empowered Accounting Technicians with the appropriate technical knowledge and skills, ensures thorough and evidence-based decision making, resulting in effective management and governance.
- Promotion and enforcement of strong professional ethics and standards which help with robust external reporting.
Accounting Technicians need to adhere to international standards and codes of ethics. This supports clear and transparent reporting, which is essential for investors, electorates, and taxpayers. This can also attract direct foreign investment, stimulating economic growth.
- Stronger internal decision making.
Information produced by Accounting Technicians will be useful for internal management planning and budgeting decisions, monitoring, and accountability across organizations.