About the position
The Finance Manager will take full ownership of the accounting and financial management function. This role is pivotal in ensuring financial integrity, operational efficiency, and commercial insight to support strategic decision-making.
The incumbent will report directly to the Managing Director.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Lead and manage the full accounting function of the Pet business, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting in line with group policies and IFRS.
- Oversee and mentor a finance team of five, driving continuous improvement, development, and performance.
- Prepare monthly management accounts, variance analysis, and operational KPIs for Group and divisional review.
- Ensure strict adherence to Group reporting deadlines for monthly management accounts, half-year interim reporting, and full year audited financial submissions.
- Monitor working capital and ensure appropriate controls and efficiency measures are in place.
- Manage budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning
- Business partner to the MD of the Pet business to provide financial insights and support strategic initiatives, extensive store rollouts, and cost management.
- Liaise with Group Finance on consolidation, audit preparation, tax compliance, and other statutory requirements.
- Implement and maintain strong internal controls, processes, and financial systems
- Contribute to commercial projects, including store performance reviews, pricing strategies, supplier negotiations, and new business initiatives.
- Execute on the current business strategy and contribute to future strategy development.
- Manage the finances for this separate legal entity and ensure that all fiduciary responsibilities are fulfilled.
Qualifications and Experience
- CA(SA) or equivalent professional accounting qualification.
- Minimum 5 years' post-articles experience
- At least 5 years of proven leadership experience with direct team management.
- Experience in a group-listed or corporate structure advantageous.
- Experience in financial planning, managing budgets, risks, costs, and performance.
- Highly analytical with excellent attention to detail.
- Strong communicator with ability to influence senior stakeholders.
- Proactive, hands-on, and comfortable working in a fast-paced growth environment.
- Experience with SAP will be advantageous and advanced Excel skills.
- Ability to interpret complex data.
- In-depth knowledge of corporate finance and accounting principles, laws, and best practices.
- Solid knowledge of financial analysis and forecasting.
- Proficient in the use of financial management software and business intelligence tools.
- Knowledge of risk assessment and mitigation strategies.
- Experience at working in a fast-paced and rapidly expanding retail environment.
Desired Skills:
- Financial Reporting Management
- Financial compliance
- Financial Accounting
- Group Accounting
- Working Capital Management
- International Financial Reporting Standards
- Financial audits
Desired Work Experience:
- 1 to 2 years FMCG
- 5 to 10 years Middle / Department Management
Desired Qualification Level & Accreditations:
- Degree
- South African Institute of Chartered Accountant
Employer & Job Benefits:
- Medical Aid
- Provident Fund
