Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
References
Hobbies
References
Hobbies
Generic
Nicolaas Johannes Van Der Merwe

Nicolaas Johannes Van Der Merwe

Roodepoort

Summary

Experienced transportation manager and accounting professional with a strong focus on team collaboration and achieving results. Proven ability to oversee logistics, optimize routes, and ensure regulatory compliance. Highly adaptable, dependable, and skilled in problem-solving, strategic planning, and resource allocation. Known for enhancing operational efficiency and fostering a cohesive work environment. Adept at managing budgets, payroll, invoicing, and general accounting functions while keeping business operations fully compliant and working within budgetary guidelines.

Overview

25
25
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Transportation Manager & Accountant

Meintjes Plant Hire and Earthworks Cc
05.2017 - Current
  • Maintained compliance with all regulations, avoiding fines and penalties for the organization.
  • Managed a team of drivers, providing support and guidance to improve performance and productivity.
  • Supervised department personnel by assigning and directing daily tasks as well as evaluating performance to enhance productivity and resolve problems.
  • Researched distance, traffic patterns and other aspects to determine cost-effective and productive routes for deliveries.
  • Organized records of vehicles, schedules and completed orders.
  • Developed strong relationships with clients, ensuring their satisfaction and loyalty to the company.
  • Conducted regular evaluations of transportation procedures for continuous improvement opportunities.
  • Trained new employees on company policies and best practices, fostering a culture of excellence within the department.
  • Enhanced equipment usage by establishing proper maintenance schedules, reducing downtime and repair costs.
  • Increased transportation efficiency by optimizing routing and scheduling processes.
  • Observed staff to review compliance and safety to minimize losses due to violations or damage.
  • Oversaw team of 10 drivers and 40 Operators by reviewing performance to promote timely and efficient deliveries and operations.
  • Prepared and updated employees' daily work schedules and resolved delivery problems.
  • Resolved customer issues efficiently, minimizing lost business due to transportation errors or delays.
  • Analyzed historical trends to proactively address potential challenges within the supply chain.
  • Collaborated with other departments, aligning goals to improve overall company performance.
  • Coordinated logistics activities across multiple locations for seamless distribution operations.
  • Coordinated driver dispatch to accomplish daily delivery requirements.
  • Communicated with customer service and sales teams to improve productivity and service ratings.
  • Managed journal entries, collection efforts, reconciliations, and payroll processing.
  • Managed banking reconciliations and monthly balance sheet statements.
  • Managed relationships with external vendors, ensuring timely payments and accurate recording of expenses.
  • Completed bi-weekly payroll for company employees.
  • Tracked business revenue and expenditures and reconciled accounts to maintain high accuracy.
  • Developed and implemented various procedures to improve accounting process.
  • Streamlined month-end closing procedures resulting in reduced processing time without compromising accuracy or completeness of the reports generated.
  • Reduced discrepancies in financial data with thorough account reconciliations and adjustments.
  • Managed successful audits by collaborating effectively with internal and external auditors.
  • Enhanced financial accuracy by implementing streamlined accounting processes and procedures.
  • Monitored budget allocation and expenditures to enforce compliance with company policies.
  • Ensured compliance with tax regulations by preparing accurate federal, state, and local tax filings on time.
  • Analyzed and reported on financial data to support business decisions.
  • Achieved timely financial reporting through diligent preparation and analysis of monthly, quarterly, and annual reports.
  • Reduced outstanding accounts receivable through more effective communication strategies with clients.
  • Processed payments and documents such as invoices, journal vouchers, employee reimbursements, and statements.
  • Managed high-volume invoice processing tasks while consistently meeting tight deadlines for vendor payments.
  • Expedited invoice processing with effective communication between internal departments and external vendors.
  • Processed credit card payments and reconciled credit card statements for accuracy in accounting process.
  • Maintained strict confidentiality of sensitive financial data, protecting company integrity and privacy rights of individuals involved.
  • Reduced errors in account reconciliation through meticulous attention to detail and thorough review of transactions.
  • Assisted in the preparation of monthly financial statements for timely and accurate reporting to management.
  • Managed accounts payable and receivable, ensuring timely processing of invoices and payments.
  • Improved financial decision-making by providing detailed expense reports and analysis.
  • Contributed to reduction in overhead costs by identifying and eliminating inefficiencies in billing process.
  • Assisted in preparing monthly financial statements, contributing to transparent and accurate financial reporting.
  • Handled day-to-day accounting processes to drive financial accuracy.
  • Input financial data and produced reports using Pastel Partner & Pastel Payroll.
  • Matched purchase orders with invoices and recorded necessary information.
  • Inspected account books and recorded transactions.
  • Reconciled accounts, managed audits and updated financial records with remarkable accuracy.
  • Assessed data and information to verify entry, calculation, and billing code accuracy.
  • Managed vendor purchase order dispatch, delivery, and invoicing to set contractual guidelines and maintain budgetary regulations.
  • Oversaw and streamlined daily operations of purchasing department to maximize productivity and revenue.
  • Devised and executed annual purchasing plans and contracts.
  • Dispensed purchase orders to suppliers with accurate pricing, deadlines and terms and conditions.
  • Performed extensive vendor and supplier research to identify cost-effective options and product availability.
  • Maintained accurate records of all purchasing activities, ensuring compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
  • Trained employees in essential job functions.
  • Handled employee-related issues to improve performance, professional conduct, and attendance reliability.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction through consistent monitoring of service quality and staff performance.
  • Mentored junior team members for career development, offering ongoing guidance on goal setting, skill-building, and performance improvement strategies.
  • Reduced employee turnover by fostering a positive work environment and offering professional development opportunities.
  • Managed inventory effectively by regularly tracking stock levels and placing orders as needed to minimize waste or shortages.
  • Maintained appropriate filing of personal and professional documentation.
  • Oversaw personal and professional calendars and coordinated appointments for future events.
  • Responded to emails and other correspondence to facilitate communication and enhance business processes.
  • Improved time management of the executive through effective prioritization and organization of tasks.
  • Maintained confidentiality and discretion while handling sensitive information relevant to company operations.
  • Served as first point of contact for incoming visitors or phone calls, ensuring prompt responses or directing inquiries appropriately.
  • Used discretion when handling confidential information.
  • Accomplished project deadlines by assisting with task completion whenever required.
  • Duties included: Senior Accountant for Meintjes Plant Hire CC, Meintjes Plant Hire & Earthworks CC, Unilimo CC, Megazone CC and Plaas Renosterspruit. Invoicing, Debtors, Creditors, Cashbook, Asset Register, Petty Cash, Site Safety Files, Monthly Salaries, Weekly Casual Wages, Clock Cards, Staff Schedules, Opening and Closing daily, Medicals and Induction, daily tracking of vehicles, Credit application, Filing and Record keeping, administration, Stock Control of workshop Order diesel as needed, do all purchases and payments, check daily that all delivery books were done as per their schedule.

Events Manager

Nicma Events (Own Company)
03.2015 - 04.2017
  • Company Overview: Events Company
  • Managed budgets effectively, optimizing allocation of resources to maximize event impact.
  • Managed administrative logistics of events planning, event booking, and event promotions.
  • Delivered exceptional customer service to attendees, addressing concerns promptly and professionally.
  • Streamlined event operations for improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness through comprehensive logistical management.
  • Coordinated florists, photographers, and musicians for events.
  • Ensured smooth event transition with thorough pre-event walkthrough and detailed day-of coordination efforts.
  • Hired and cross-trained staff members for various event-specific functions and assessed employees' understanding of associated processes and procedures.
  • Created memorable experiences for guests through immersive entertainment options at various events.
  • Enhanced attendee experience by meticulously planning and executing engaging event agendas.
  • Led cross-functional teams in the execution of successful events, fostering collaboration and communication among all stakeholders.
  • Boosted event attendance by implementing targeted marketing strategies and promotional campaigns.
  • Established strong relationships with vendors, securing optimal pricing and service quality for events.
  • Selected and ordered refreshments, decor and event materials.
  • Increased client satisfaction by delivering tailored events that met their unique objectives and preferences.
  • Skillfully negotiated contracts with venues, saving clients money while maintaining high-quality standards for events spaces.
  • Maintained strict safety protocols at all times, mitigating potential risks to attendees during large-scale gatherings.
  • Delivered prompt payment for event vendors, venues, staff and transportation providers.
  • Oversaw event registration process by collecting and tracking attendee information.
  • Created detailed timelines and budgets for events to meet all deadlines.
  • Trained and supervised event staff to complete tasks on time.
  • Utilized social media to promote events and increase attendance.
  • Implemented contingency plans to address last-minute changes or unforeseen events.
  • Coordinated travel and accommodations for event attendees.
  • Developed creative themes for events and created related activities to engage attendees.
  • Implemented protocols and procedures to effectively manage planning process.
  • Developed detailed event reports, documenting all aspects of each event.
  • Coordinated transportation and parking arrangements for guests and vendors.
  • Analyzed event costs to identify areas of improvement and cost savings.
  • Negotiated contracts with venues, vendors and suppliers to obtain best rates and services.
  • Evaluated existing plans, processes and events planning services to identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Produced concept plans for high-profile corporate meetings and events.
  • Monitored and controlled event expenditures to meet budgets.
  • Managed approximately 80 - 100 incoming calls, emails per day from customers
  • Reason for Closing Company - Previous Employer made me better offer

Accountant

Meintjes, Plant Hire & Earthworks cc
03.2010 - 02.2015
  • Duties included: Senior Accountant for Meintjes Plant Hire CC, Meintjes Plant Hire & Earthworks CC, Unilimo CC, Megazone CC and Plaas Renosterspruit. Invoicing, Debtors, Creditors, Cashbook, Asset Register, Petty Cash, Site Safety Files, Monthly Salaries, Weekly Casual Wages, Clock Cards, Staff Schedules, Opening and Closing daily, Medicals and Induction, daily tracking of vehicles, Credit application, Filing and Record keeping, administration, Stock Control of workshop Order diesel as needed, do all purchases and payments, check daily that all delivery books were done as per their schedule.
  • Managed approximately 50 incoming calls, emails and faxes per day from customers
  • Reason for leaving: Start my own company

Audit Clerk

Genesis Chartered Accountants
03.2009 - 02.2010
  • Duties included: Audit companies books and records, Make sure there is a system in place, Paper trail of documents of each transaction, Monthly PAYE and Vat clients, Capturing client documents from cashbook, invoices, creditors, debtors, asset register, stock counting, Draft Financial Statements, Cash flow Statements, Balance sheet, Income statement, Management Accounts
  • Provided valuable insights into process improvements based on thorough analysis of audit findings.
  • Reviewed figures, postings and paperwork for accuracy, integrity, and compliance.
  • Improved accuracy in financial reporting through diligent examination of accounts, ledgers, and bank records.
  • Reconciled accounts, spreadsheets and documents on daily basis using Clients Accounting and Payroll Software and CaseWare.
  • Collaborated effectively with internal departments to gather relevant data and documents for audits.
  • Managed multiple client engagements simultaneously, ensuring timely completion without compromising quality.
  • Identified irregularities, researched causes and resolved problems.
  • Facilitated smooth communication between audit team members by coordinating meetings and sharing information efficiently.
  • Identified opportunities for cost savings during audits, recommending changes to improve business operations.
  • Collected daily cashier envelopes for review as part of comprehensive daily auditing routine.
  • Continuously improved personal expertise in auditing by attending industry conferences and workshops, staying current on emerging trends and best practices.
  • Prioritized tasks effectively during high-pressure situations, ensuring all deadlines were met without sacrificing accuracy or professionalism.
  • Evaluated master reports and compared information against individual machine and employee data.
  • Verified calculations to minimize accounting errors and keep records compliant with Saica standards.
  • Evaluated internal controls within organizations to determine the effectiveness of risk mitigation strategies employed by clients.
  • Worked closely with external auditors during annual reviews, facilitating a seamless exchange of information.
  • Conducted detailed research on industry trends to identify potential areas of concern or improvement in audits.
  • Supported senior auditors by preparing necessary documentation and maintaining well-organized workpapers throughout the audit process.
  • Assisted in the preparation of comprehensive audit reports, presenting findings to management for informed decision making.
  • Delivered supporting documentation for records changes directly to auditor for analysis.
  • Enhanced audit efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing automated systems.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of relevant accounting principles, regulations, and best practices to ensure accurate auditing processes.
  • Collaborated with managers to obtain missing information.
  • Ensured compliance with regulatory standards through meticulous adherence to policies and procedures.
  • Reduced risk of errors with thorough review and cross-checking of financial statements.
  • Researched cash variances, investigated root causes and corrected problems with detail-oriented approach.
  • Input financial data and produced reports using CaseWare.
  • Maintained account accuracy by reviewing and reconciling checks monthly.
  • Reconciled company bank, credit card and line of credit accounts, investigating, and resolving discrepancies to keep accounts audit-ready.
  • Reconciled account information and reported figures in general ledger by comparing to bank account statement each month.
  • Tracked financial progress by creating quarterly and yearly balance sheets.
  • Presented audit findings to accounting manager after reviewing results and paperwork.
  • Implemented new accounting processes to decrease spending and work flow downtime.
  • Inspected account books and recorded transactions.
  • Reconciled accounts, managed audits and updated financial records with remarkable accuracy.
  • Reason for leaving: He couldn't sign my articles as they have too many clerks for the amount of CA's

Audit Clerk

Morris Du Plessis Inc.
03.2007 - 02.2009
  • Company Overview: Chartered Accountants
  • Duties included: Audit companies books and records, Make sure there is a system in place, Paper trail of documents of each transaction, Monthly PAYE and Vat clients, Capturing client documents from cashbook, invoices, creditors, debtors, asset register, stock counting, Draft Financial Statements, Cash flow Statements, Balance sheet, Income statement, Management Accounts
  • Managed approximately 60 - 80 incoming calls, emails and faxes per day from customers
  • Reason for leaving: Better offer came along

Manager

Hi- Q and Engen Garage
03.2004 - 02.2007
  • Duties included: Front Desk Management and Sales, Stock Control, Purchase of Stock, Client liaison and Service, Daily Cash ups, Daily Banking, Debtors Control, Creditors Control, Cashbook, Staff Management, Staff Meetings, Weekly Planning, Weekly Shift Register, Weekly and Monthly Wages, Invoicing, Accounting up to Trail Balance, Clock Cards, Cleaning Schedules, Ordering of Petrol, Diesel and Paraffin, Daily dip readings
  • Established positive and effective communication among unit staff and organization leadership, reducing miscommunications, and missed deadlines.
  • Oversaw facility maintenance activities to ensure optimal performance of equipment and infrastructure elements.
  • Identified and resolved unauthorized, unsafe, or ineffective practices.
  • Successfully managed budgets, consistently meeting financial targets while maintaining high-quality standards.
  • Improved customer satisfaction ratings by ensuring prompt resolution of issues and concerns.
  • Implemented cost-saving initiatives, reducing overall operational expenses without compromising service quality.
  • Optimized inventory control procedures to minimize stockouts and excess inventory levels.
  • Streamlined operational processes by implementing efficient workflow management strategies.
  • Evaluated employee performance regularly, promoting professional growth opportunities through coaching methods.
  • Developed strong relationships with suppliers, resulting in reduced costs and better quality products.
  • Created and executed strategic plans aimed at increasing profitability while maintaining exceptional customer service standards.
  • Negotiated favorable contracts with vendors, securing competitive pricing arrangements that benefited the organization''s bottom line results.
  • Managed daily operations, ensuring smooth workflow and timely completion of tasks.
  • Improved team morale with regular feedback sessions and recognition of outstanding performance.
  • Enhanced customer experience by refining service delivery processes, leading to repeat business and positive reviews.
  • Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed efficiently and to high standard.
  • Led team meetings to discuss performance metrics, fostering culture of continuous improvement and accountability.
  • Reduced downtime and improved productivity by maintaining equipment and scheduling regular maintenance checks.
  • Increased sales revenue by developing and implementing effective sales strategies.
  • Built long-lasting client relationships through excellent customer service and consistent followups.

Casual

Dance Instructor Fred a Stairs
01.2002 - 01.2003
  • Planned routines for recitals and performances.
  • Fostered a supportive learning environment by promoting positive reinforcement and constructive feedback.
  • Created healthy and safe learning environment for all students by implementing class rules and promoting mutual respect and gentle discipline.
  • Worked in team-based environment to uphold quality and continuity of service to clients.
  • Utilized different styles of teaching to accommodate students of all capabilities.
  • Planned, prepared, and delivered lesson plans introducing students to dance techniques and ballet positions.
  • Developed personalized lesson plans to cater to individual student needs, resulting in improved dance skills.
  • Communicated with students and parents in person, via email, and by phone to resolve issues and answer questions.
  • Offered one-on-one instruction to students by appointment.
  • Enhanced student performance by incorporating diverse dance styles and techniques in lessons.
  • Collaborated with fellow instructors to plan and execute successful recitals showcasing students'' progress and achievements.
  • Increased student retention rate with engaging choreography that challenged their abilities while maintaining enjoyment.
  • Planned and oversaw group, couples, and individual dance performances.
  • Facilitated workshops for advanced dancers, refining technique and enhancing overall performance quality.
  • Regularly evaluated student progress through assessments, adjusting teaching methods accordingly for optimal results.
  • Taught and explained choreography by breaking down steps and demonstrating moves.
  • Tailored each class to meet student needs and abilities and allow dancers to progress at comfortable pace.
  • Reason for leaving: Part time offer

Casual

Pick ‘n Pay Witpoortjie
01.2000 - 01.2001
  • Ensured timely fulfillment of custom orders by efficiently processing special requests from customers.
  • Assisted in maintaining a clean and organized butcher shop, adhering to strict sanitation guidelines.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in using industry-specific tools such as knives, saws, and grinders for accurate cuts.
  • Facilitated seamless order processing through accurate record-keeping and clear communication with other departments.
  • Greeted and interacted with diverse customer base, serving needs on individual basis.
  • Packaged and weighed products for customers and supported individual product selection process.
  • Prepared for special holidays and events by adjusting inventories and anticipating demand.
  • Maintained clean, organized kitchen to maximize efficiency and food safety.
  • Stored, labeled, and replenished supplies in compliance with food safety regulations.
  • Decorated baked goods and designed visually appealing displays of finished products.
  • Arranged bakery displays to showcase baked goods, cakes, and pies to drive product sales.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing exceptional service and handling special requests for bakery products.
  • Upheld cleanliness standards within the bakery area, ensuring a safe and sanitary workspace for food preparation.
  • Operated commercial kitchen equipment and tools.
  • Utilized safe food handling techniques when preparing, storing, and displaying products to reduce waste and minimize risk of contamination.
  • Carefully prepared orders by slicing, weighing, and packaging cheeses and meats and accurately calculated prices.
  • Collaborated with team members to ensure smooth operation of the deli department.
  • Restocked supplies and prepared additional ingredients during downtime for expected busy periods.
  • Monitored product quality closely by checking expiration dates and rotating stock accordingly.
  • Worked flexible schedule and extra shifts to meet business needs.
  • Operated cash register for cash, check, and credit card transactions with excellent accuracy levels.
  • Built relationships with customers to encourage repeat business.
  • Maintained a balanced cash drawer, ensuring accurate accounting at the end of each shift.
  • Helped customers complete purchases, locate items, and join reward programs.
  • Restocked and organized merchandise in front lanes.
  • Assisted customers with returns, refunds and resolving transaction issues.
  • Counted money in cash drawers at beginning and end of shifts to maintain accuracy.
  • Stocked, tagged and displayed merchandise as required.

Education

Matrix - Afrikaans, English, Math's, Science, Computer Studies, Accountancy

Bastion High School
Krugersdorp, South Africa
12-2003

A+ Computer Course - Business Management, Supervisor and leadership skills

Damelin
Krugersdorp, South Africa
01.2005

BCompt degree - Business Management 1, Introduction to Business Management 1 & 2, Commercial Law 1 & 2, Accounts 1 & 2, Economics 1 & 2

UNISA
Pretoria

Skills

  • Computer skills: Caseware, Pastel Partner, Word, Excel, Power point, Caseware Time, Easyback point of sale, Sage Pastel Payroll, A PC Technology’s and many more
  • Auditing & Accounting skills: Debtors, Creditors, Bank, Sales, Cost of Sales, Employee Cost, Fixed Assets, Expenses, Tax, Bank reconciliation and control accounts reconciliation, Balance sheet, Income statement and Cash flow, Draft Annual Financial Statements and Management statements
  • Administrative skills: VAT, PAYE, UIF, SDL, Capture data effectively, Accounting up to trial balance, Casual Wages, Site Safety Files, Secretarial work, Insurance, Credit Applications, Stock Control, Stock Ordering, Stock Levels, Buying of Stock, Typing of Letters, Email, Problem Solving, Sort out Queries, Planning, Transport Management, Civil Management, Earthworks Management, Daily staff checks, Invoices, Credit Notes, Quotes, GRN’s, Contracts, Meetings etc
  • People Skills: People sensitivity, Strong communication skills, Patience with others, Knowing how and when to show empathy, Active listening skills The ability relate to others on a personal or professional, Problem-solving abilities and a willingness to work together towards a common cause
  • Management Skills: Working in a team, Leadership and People management, Attract, retain, motivate, coach and develop team members for high performance, Communication skills, Collaboration skills, Business Management skills, Project and Business Management skills, Planning skills, Communications skills, Supervising skills, motivation skills etc
  • Transportation Management - Coordinate Driver and Operators, Arrange, Route Planning, Material Management, Warehouse Operations, Load Planning, Fleet Management on Car Track Fleet Software as well as Self tracking Fleet Software, Cost control - Diesel and Service Parts, Tracking, Speed Tracking, Staff Recruitment, Schedule Control, Dispatch Operations, Client Relationship and Understanding their needs, Invoicing and Material Calculation for Clients needs

Timeline

Transportation Manager & Accountant

Meintjes Plant Hire and Earthworks Cc
05.2017 - Current

Events Manager

Nicma Events (Own Company)
03.2015 - 04.2017

Accountant

Meintjes, Plant Hire & Earthworks cc
03.2010 - 02.2015

Audit Clerk

Genesis Chartered Accountants
03.2009 - 02.2010

Audit Clerk

Morris Du Plessis Inc.
03.2007 - 02.2009

Manager

Hi- Q and Engen Garage
03.2004 - 02.2007

Casual

Dance Instructor Fred a Stairs
01.2002 - 01.2003

Casual

Pick ‘n Pay Witpoortjie
01.2000 - 01.2001

Matrix - Afrikaans, English, Math's, Science, Computer Studies, Accountancy

Bastion High School

A+ Computer Course - Business Management, Supervisor and leadership skills

Damelin

BCompt degree - Business Management 1, Introduction to Business Management 1 & 2, Commercial Law 1 & 2, Accounts 1 & 2, Economics 1 & 2

UNISA

References

Pick ‘n Pay Witpoortjie                                                                       

Luigi  011-762-5483/4/5      


Subway Motors (Hi-Q & Engen Garage)                                                         

Jannie Kotze  083-453-4447 


Morris Du Plessis Inc.

Morris Du Plessis 011-760-3374

             

Genesis Chartered Accountants                     

John or Cedric  011-476-7840  


Meintjes Plant Hire and Earthworks cc

Wikus Meintjes 011-708-1385

                   

Hobbies

- Nature and Wildlife

- Rugby

- Paddle Tennis

- Outdoor Adventures

- Gaming Computer Building

- Music

- Life Events

References

Pick ‘n Pay Witpoortjie                                                                       

Luigi  011-762-5483/4/5      


Subway Motors (Hi-Q & Engen Garage)                                                         

Jannie Kotze  083-453-4447 


Morris Du Plessis Inc.

Morris Du Plessis 011-760-3374

             

Genesis Chartered Accountants                     

John or Cedric  011-476-7840  


Meintjes Plant Hire and Earthworks cc

Wikus Meintjes 011-708-1385

                   

Hobbies

- Nature and Wildlife

- Rugby

- Paddle Tennis

- Outdoor Adventures

- Gaming Computer Building

- Music

- Life Events

Nicolaas Johannes Van Der Merwe