Financial Controller

University of Fort Hare; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

An international education organisation is seeking a Financial Controller in Johannesburg to oversee all accounting and finance operations. The role involves managing financial health, compliance, and collaborating with senior leadership. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance, with professional qualifications and relevant experience in finance, preferably in the education sector. This position offers a competitive salary compatible with market rates.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2–3 years of relevant financial experience.
• Experience in the education sector will be advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting functions including bookkeeping, payables, receivables, payroll, intercompany transactions, and taxation.
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of financial transactions and account reconciliations.
• Manage the month-end closing process and deliver accurate financial results.
• Prepare monthly management accounts and variance analyses in collaboration with international finance teams.
• Support quarterly forecasting and annual budgeting processes.
• Ensure compliance with statutory requirements including VAT and payroll taxes.
• Liaise with auditors, bankers, and key finance stakeholders.
• Provide financial insights and reporting to support business decision-making.
• Safeguard organisational assets and maintain financial discipline across the business.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Adaptability

Proficiency in Excel

Proficiency in Xero Accounting System

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

Professional accounting qualification (SAICA, SAIPA, or CIMA)

Tools

Xero Accounting System

Excel

Job description

Monthly Cost To Company (Market related, Negotiable)

Are you a driven and detail-oriented finance professional ready to take the next step in your career? We are seeking a Financial Controller to oversee all aspects of accounting and finance operations, ensuring the ongoing financial health and compliance of a growing international education organisation.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the CEO, the Financial Controller will manage the full finance function, including accounting, reporting, compliance, payroll, and financial analysis. The role will also collaborate closely with senior leadership and international finance teams to support strategic business decisions and growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting functions including bookkeeping, payables, receivables, payroll, intercompany transactions, and taxation.
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of financial transactions and account reconciliations.
• Manage the month‑end closing process and deliver accurate financial results.
• Prepare monthly management accounts and variance analyses in collaboration with international finance teams.
• Support quarterly forecasting and annual budgeting processes.
• Ensure compliance with statutory requirements including VAT and payroll taxes.
• Liaise with auditors, bankers, and key finance stakeholders.
• Provide financial insights and reporting to support business decision‑making.
• Safeguard organisational assets and maintain financial discipline across the business.

Skills & Attributes

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Collaborative and adaptable with a solutions‑driven mindset.
• Proficiency in Excel and Xero Accounting System.
• Sound understanding of financial regulations and best practices.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Professional accounting qualification (SAICA, SAIPA, or CIMA).
• Minimum of 2–3 years of relevant financial experience.
• Experience in the education sector will be advantageous.

Please note that only suitable candidates will be contacted.