Chief Financial Officer - West Africa

Page Executive; Johannesburg; On-site; Confidential; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial services firm in Johannesburg is seeking a Senior Financial Leader to provide strategic guidance and manage the company's financial health. The role requires extensive experience in financial management, particularly within multinational organizations focused on the manufacturing sector. The ideal candidate will have a strong educational background in finance and possess an entrepreneurial mindset, with the ability to operate in dynamic environments. Fluent French is a significant advantage. Attractive compensation is offered.

Benefits

Attractive package

Opportunity for growth across Africa

Qualifications

• 10-12 years of senior financial management experience in multinational organizations.
• Established track record overseeing financial functions across multiple African countries.
• Fluent in French is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Formulate and implement financial strategies aligning with growth targets.
• Lead initiatives for improving financial performance and operational efficiency.
• Supervise budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning.

Skills

Entrepreneurial mindset

Financial planning

Capital acquisition

Risk mitigation

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting or related discipline

Master's degree (e.g., MBA) or recognized professional certifications (CA, CPA, CIMA)

Job description

• Providing strategic financial leadership and operational management
• Align financial strategies with the company's growth objectives

About Our Client

My client is engaged in the development, acquisition, and growth of enterprises across key sectors including manufacturing, sales and distribution, technology-enabled business solutions, and real estate. These sectors have been strategically selected due to their substantial potential to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of livelihoods across Africa.

Through the application of digital technologies and data-driven insights, my client endeavours to integrate, optimise, and industrialise their value chains, while enhancing and expanding their portfolio of products and services. This approach facilitates local value addition and fosters inclusive economic prosperity throughout the continent.

My client has operations that extend to both African and international markets. Their product range encompasses manufacturing and distribution of home care, personal care, and health care goods. Additionally, they provide supply chain solutions tailored to the distinctive challenges of the African context, alongside innovative property development services designed to transform urban living environments within the region.

Their business model is predicated on establishing trusted, strategic partnerships with entities committed to realising Africa's industrial and entrepreneurial potential.

Job Description

Strategic Financial Leadership

• Formulate and implement financial strategies that align with the organisation's vision and growth targets.
• Provide strategic financial guidance to support executive decision-making and long-term business development.
• Lead initiatives aimed at improving financial performance, operational efficiency, and overall profitability.

Capital Acquisition and Investment Planning

• Design and execute capital-raising strategies to facilitate the company's expansion and operational growth.
• Identify and engage with prospective investors, financial institutions, and funding partners.
• Oversee investment planning and financial structuring to ensure optimal capital deployment and maximise returns.
• Develop and manage debt and equity strategies consistent with corporate objectives.
• Assess various financing options including loans, grants, and private equity to secure favourable terms.

Budgeting, Forecasting, and Financial Planning

• Supervise the budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning processes.
• Ensure financial models and forecasts accurately reflect industry trends and prevailing market conditions.
• Monitor key financial performance indicators to evaluate organisational performance and growth prospects.
• Manage budgets and profit & loss statements to sustain profitability and drive sustainable growth.
• Prioritise resource allocation to areas with the highest strategic impact.

Operational and Risk Management

• Champion initiatives to improve cost efficiency and implement robust risk management practices across operations.
• Establish and maintain internal controls to ensure compliance with international financial standards, local regulations, and corporate governance policies.
• Oversee cash flow management and treasury functions to optimise liquidity and working capital.

Financial Reporting and Compliance

• Ensure timely and accurate financial reporting across all regions of operation, adhering to both corporate and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate with auditors and regulatory bodies to maintain compliance with tax and financial laws in respective jurisdictions.
• Standardise financial reporting systems and processes throughout the organisation.

Team Leadership and Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing finance team across multiple countries, fostering a culture of accountability, excellence, and innovation.
• Manage talent acquisition, professional development, and succession planning within the finance function.
• Encourage collaboration and knowledge exchange among finance personnel.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as a principal financial advisor to the General Manager, Board of Directors, and Executive Committee on all financial matters.
• Engage with external stakeholders, including investors, financial institutions, and regulatory authorities, to promote transparency and build confidence.
• Collaborate closely with senior leadership to support operational objectives and strategic market expansion initiatives.

The Successful Applicant

• 
  
  Entrepreneurial mindset and demonstrated capability to thrive in dynamic and rapidly evolving environments.
• 
  
  Possession of a bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a closely related discipline. Advanced qualifications such as a Master's degree (e.g., MBA) or recognised professional certifications (e.g., CA, CPA, CIMA) are strongly desirable.
• 
  
  At least 10-12 years of senior financial management experience, preferably within multinational organisations operating in the manufacturing or fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sectors.
• 
  
  Established track record in overseeing financial functions across multiple African countries. West Africa is a high preference.
• French speaking candidate is highly preferred and advantageous.
• 
  
  In-depth expertise in financial planning, capital acquisition, risk mitigation, and adherence to regulatory frameworks.

What's on Offer

• Attractive package on offer.
• Opportunity to join an exciting organisation with rapid growth across the African continent.