Operational Accounting and Finance Manager

Description:

Reporting Structure:

Reports to: CFO or Group Financial Director.
Manages: Finance and accounting teams across the five companies.

Job Summary:
Responsible for overseeing operational accounting, financial management, and compliance across the five companies within the holding group. This role ensures accurate financial reporting, manages finance staff, and optimizes financial strategies to support the company's growth and profitability.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Operational Accounting & Compliance

Oversee daily accounting activities across the group, including accounts payable, receivable, payroll, and fixed asset management.
Ensure accurate financial reporting for each entity, consolidating group financials for management reporting.
Maintain strong internal controls to safeguard company assets, including loaned equipment under supply agreements.
Ensure compliance with IFRS (or applicable accounting standards), tax regulations, and company policies.

2. Financial Management & Supervision

Lead and manage the finance team across all five companies, ensuring efficient workflow and staff development.
Develop and implement financial policies and procedures to standardize accounting practices across the group.
Oversee external audits, tax filings, and regulatory compliance for all entities.
Monitor and manage cash flow, working capital, and debtors’ collections.

3. Financial Planning & Business Support

Prepare and analyze monthly management accounts, budgets, forecasts, and variance reports.
Provide financial insights to support decision-making for cost control, pricing strategies, and capital investments.
Monitor financial performance, identifying risks and opportunities to improve profitability.
Support the CFO and senior management in strategic financial planning and expansion initiatives.

4. Equipment Loan Management & Asset Control

Ensure accurate tracking of fabricated equipment loaned under supply agreements.
Implement financial controls to monitor asset utilization and depreciation.
Collaborate with legal and sales teams to structure financial terms in supply agreements.

Primary Focus:
Day-to-day operational accounting, finance team management, and process optimization
Financial Reporting:
Ensures timely and accurate financial transactions, reconciliations, and reporting
Compliance and Controls:
Manages financial policies and ensures adherence to company and regulatory standards
Budgeting and Forecasting:
Prepares operational budgets and monitors financial performance against projections
Cash Flow and Working Capital:
Monitors daily cash flow and ensures efficient receivables/payables management
Team Leadership:
Directly manages accountants, AP/AR clerks, and finance staff
Equipment Loan and Asset Management:
Tracks inventory and loaned equipment from an operational perspective
Strategic Involvement:
Focuses on improving financial processes and efficiency within the finance department

Requirements:

Qualifications & Skills:

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CA(SA), CIMA, or equivalent preferred).
7+ years of experience in operational accounting and finance, with at least 3 years in a managerial role.
Experience in manufacturing, food processing, or chemical industries preferred.
Strong understanding of cost accounting, inventory management, and capital asset tracking.
Proficiency in financial software (e.g., SAP, Sage, or ERP systems) and advanced Excel skills.
Leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills with a hands-on approach.