CFO Head of Finance

Ca Financial Appointments; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading finance recruitment firm is seeking a Head of Finance to establish and lead the finance function of a fast-growing engineering group based in South Africa. This role involves overseeing financial management and reporting across various divisions, mentoring the finance team, and working closely with founders to shape financial strategies. Ideal candidates will have a CA(SA) or CIMA qualification and extensive experience in finance, particularly within fast-paced sectors. Join a unique opportunity to make a significant impact within a diverse business landscape.

Benefits

Opportunity to shape finance function

Partnership with company founders

Involvement in diverse industries

Qualifications

• 8 years of experience in finance, ideally in engineering, manufacturing or FMCG.
• Experience setting up or transforming a finance function.
• Strong technical foundation in financial management.

Responsibilities

• Establish and lead the finance function across operating entities.
• Oversee financial management, reporting and compliance.
• Implement and optimise financial systems.

Skills

Financial management

Reporting

Cash-flow management

Collaborative leadership

Entrepreneurial mindset

Education

CA(SA), CIMA or equivalent qualification

Tools

Xero

ERP systems

Job description

Job Description

Are you ready to build a finance function from the ground up? Our client is an established fast‑growing engineering and manufacturing group entering an exciting new phase of expansion locally and abroad. They’re now looking to appoint their first Head of Finance / CFO to partner with the founders and professionalise the group’s financial operations.

About the client

A diversified business supplying process engineering solutions, manufacturing and automation services and an FMCG venture in natural food products. With operations in South Africa and emerging markets in Australia and the USA, the group has grown organically over the past decade and now needs a senior finance professional to consolidate, streamline and lead its finance function.

What you’ll be doing

• Establish and lead the group’s finance function across several operating entities.
• Oversee full financial management, reporting and compliance across engineering, manufacturing, FMCG and property divisions.
• Build consolidated group reporting, budgets and forecasts to inform strategic decision‑making.
• Implement and optimise financial systems (currently Xero; potential ERP migration).
• Strengthen internal controls, governance and risk‑management processes.
• Support founders and operational leadership with cash‑flow planning, capital allocation and business strategy.
• Mentor and develop an existing small administrative and finance support team.
• Liaise with auditors, banks and key stakeholders.
• Drive efficiency, transparency and insight across the group’s operations.

What the role requires

• CA(SA), CIMA or equivalent qualification preferred.
• 8 years of experience in finance, ideally in engineering, manufacturing or FMCG.
• Experience setting up or transforming a finance function within a growing business.
• Strong technical foundation in financial management, reporting and cash‑flow.
• Solid systems capability – Xero and / or ERP experience essential.
• Entrepreneurial mindset and ability to operate effectively in a founder‑led, fast‑moving environment.
• Collaborative leadership style and willingness to be hands‑on where needed.

What’s in it for you

• Opportunity to create and shape the finance function in your own image.
• Direct partnership with the founders of a highly respected growing group.
• Involvement across multiple industries – engineering, FMCG, property and international operations.

If you’re a commercially minded finance professional who thrives in entrepreneurial, high‑growth environments, this is a rare opportunity to make your mark.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not hear from us within 10 working days please consider your application unsuccessful.