Head of Finance | South Africa

Job Description Job Description The Head of Finance leads the finance department and drives the Group’s financial strategy to align with business objectives. This role oversees all financial operations, provides strategic guidance to the executive team, and ensures long-term financial sustainability. Additionally, the Head of Finance manages capital, optimises financial resources, supervises fundraising, develops financial policies, and monitors performance. The role also maintains relationships with investors and financial stakeholders, ensuring regulatory compliance and fostering continuous improvement within the finance team, contributing to the Group’s financial success and growth. Key Responsibilities Payment Management 1. Supervise and manage the end-to-end procurement payment process, ensuring timely, accurate, and compliant payments to suppliers. 2. Ensure all procurement transactions are properly reviewed and recorded, with accurate payment processing in accordance with contractual terms. 3. Coordinate with finance team to ensure proper reconciliation of payment records with financial systems. 4. Review and approve payment requests, invoices, and supporting documentation, ensuring alignment with purchase orders, contracts, and other procurement policies. Cost Management 1. Monitor and control operating expenses to ensure cost efficiency. 2. Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements. 3. Implement cost management strategies to enhance profitability. Financial Strategy Development 1. Participate to develop and execute the Group's financial strategy to support overall business objectives. 2. Align financial goals with the Group's long-term vision and growth plans. 3. Provide strategic financial insights and recommendations to the executive team and board of directors. 4. Participate in developing alternative pricing models and changes to existing client pricing strategies. Financial Planning, Analysis and Forecasting 1. Analyse financial data to identify trends, opportunities, risks and areas for improvement. 2. Provide strategic financial insights and recommendations to support business decision-making. 3. Lead the annual budgeting process, working closely with department heads to develop realistic and achievable budgets. 4. Prepare financial forecasts and update them regularly based on actual performance and changing business conditions. Financial Reporting and Compliance 1. Prepare and present comprehensive financial reports, including monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements. 2. Ensure financial reports comply with IFRS and regulatory requirements. 3. Ensure accurate and timely preparation of financial statements and reports. 4. Present financial reports to the executive team, board of directors, and other stakeholders. Capital Management 1. Manage the Group's capital structure, including equity, debt, and working capital. 2. Optimise the use of financial resources to support business growth and sustainability. 3. Oversee fundraising activities, including equity financing, debt issuance, and investor relations. Investment Management 1. Evaluate investment opportunities and make recommendations to the executive team. 2. Oversee the management of the Group's investment portfolio. 3. Ensure investments align with the Group's strategic goals and risk tolerance. Tax Filings and Regulatory Requirements 1. Oversee the administration of all tax affairs/notifications on SARS E-filing and/or with SARS representatives 2. Complete and submit the annual tax returns and supporting documentation on E-filing. 3. Stay updated on changes in tax regulations and advise management on potential impacts on the Group. 4. Optimise tax structure and tax planning for all operating and business processes within the Group companies. Mergers and Acquisitions 1. Lead financial due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, and other strategic transactions. 2. Evaluate the financial impact of potential deals and provide recommendations. 3. Oversee the integration of acquired businesses into the Group's financial systems and processes. Risk Management 1. Identify and assess financial risks, including market, credit, and operational risks. 2. Develop and implement risk management strategies to mitigate potential threats. 3. Ensure the Group has adequate insurance coverage and contingency plans. Liaison with External Parties 1. Liaise with external regulators, auditors, and advisers, such as lawyers and auditors. 2. Ensure effective communication and coordination with external stakeholders. 3. Coordinate and manage internal and external audits, ensuring timely and accurate provision of required documentation. Internal Controls and Compliance 1. Develop, implement, and maintain robust internal controls to safeguard Group assets and ensure financial integrity. 2. Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal financial regulations and reporting requirements. 3. Conduct regular reviews and audits of financial processes to identify and mitigate risks. Corporate Governance 1. Develop and oversee systems that ensure the Group complies with all applicable codes and legal requirements. 2. Ensure the Group's financial practices adhere to corporate governance standards. 3. Ensure transparency and accountability in financial reporting and decision-making. Team Leadership and Development 1. Lead and develop the finance team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. 2. Provide guidance, training, and support to ensure high performance and professional growth. 3. Conduct performance evaluations and identify opportunities for development. Stakeholder Communication 1. Communicate financial performance and insights to senior management, the board of directors, and other stakeholders. 2. Prepare and present financial reports and analyses in a clear and concise manner. 3. Build and maintain strong relationships with investors, banks, and other financial partners. 4. Represent the Group in financial discussions and negotiations. Qualifications and Skill Requirements Qualifications • Minimum Required: Chartered Account (CA(SA) membership Skills and Experience • At least 5 years’ experience in a financial management role, preferably in a banking / finance related field. • Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities. • Strong attention to detail, and the ability to work with complex information. • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with all levels of the organisation. • Proficiency in using technology. • Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion. Technical Skills • Familiarity with relevant laws, regulations, and standards and compliance requirements associated with financial and banking services. • Knowledge of the regulatory framework within South Africa. Essential Skills • Ability to operate multi-nationally with international business partners. • Ability to work in a self-directed and remote environment. • Demonstrated ability to draft clear and professional correspondence and other documents of a legal, compliance and business nature. • Excellent analysis and problem-solving skills. • Demonstrated ability to appropriately work with confidential information. • Ability to facilitate the collection of information through interviews, meetings etc. • Ability to articulate and convey complex, conceptual information to various audiences verbally and in writing. • Experience communicating with regulators and law enforcement agencies. • Excellent demonstrated organisational skills, including time management, record keeping, self-scheduling, and follow-up. • Must be a self-starter and be able to act independently. • Demonstrated ability to handle multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. Requirements Key Requirements CA(SA)Chartered Accountant (minimum requirement) At least 5 years' experience in a financial management role, ideally within banking or finance Strong IFRS and South African regulatory knowledge Proven ability to lead teams and engage confidently with Exco, the Board, auditors and investors A self-starter who thrives working independently in a hybrid environment