Financial Manager

Werfnet; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Werfnet is seeking an experienced Finance Manager to lead the full financial function within a manufacturing environment. The role reports to senior management and focuses on accurate reporting, strong controls, and strategic financial input.

You will manage budgeting, forecasting, cost analysis, and cash flow while coaching the finance team and coordinating with auditors, banks, and key stakeholders to support operational performance and growth.

Qualifications

• Degree in commerce or accounting with professional registration progress.
• Minimum 3–5 years in a finance management role within a business.
• Manufacturing or operations finance experience is advantageous.
• Strong knowledge of financial controls and IFRS for SMEs.
• Advanced Excel and experience with accounting systems.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of the overall financial management function for the business.
• Prepare, review and analyse monthly management accounts and reports.
• Ensure accurate reporting under IFRS for SMEs and maintain GL/balance sheet integrity.
• Lead budgeting, forecasting and strategic financial planning processes.
• Provide cost analysis, inventory and working capital insights to drive improvements.
• Develop the finance team and liaise with external auditors and banks.

Skills

Financial management

Management accounting

Budgeting & forecasting

Leadership

Excel proficiency

Stakeholder management

Education

BCom Accounting degree

SAICA/SAIPA/CIMA in progress

Tools

Pastel/SAP

ERP systems

Job description

FINANCE MANAGER – MANUFACTURING

Overview

Our client, a well-established organisation within the manufacturing sector, is seeking an experienced and hands‑on Finance Manager to take responsibility for the full financial management function of the business. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting operational and strategic decision‑making while ensuring accurate financial reporting, effective financial controls and compliance with relevant financial and statutory requirements. This role would suit a commercially minded finance professional with strong management accounting experience and exposure to a manufacturing or operational environment.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management and Reporting

• Take ownership of the overall financial management function within the business.
• Prepare, review and analyse monthly management accounts and financial reports.
• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in accordance with applicable accounting standards, including IFRS for SMEs.
• Manage and review General Ledger and Balance Sheet reconciliations.
• Maintain accurate financial and accounting records across key areas, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, inventory and expenses.
• Provide financial insights and recommendations to management to support effective business decision‑making.

Budgeting, Forecasting and Planning

• Lead the preparation and management of annual budgets and forecasts.
• Participate in the annual business planning and strategic planning processes.
• Monitor business performance against budgets and forecasts and provide detailed variance analysis.
• Support monthly forecasting and business review processes.
• Contribute financial input towards growth, profitability and operational improvement initiatives.

Manufacturing Finance and Cost Management

• Oversee product costing and manufacturing cost analysis.
• Analyse production variances and manufacturing overhead recovery rates.
• Support operational teams with financial insights relating to production efficiency and cost reduction opportunities.
• Review and maintain the integrity of inventory records, including work‑in‑progress and finished goods.
• Provide financial analysis to support make‑versus‑buy decisions and capital investment opportunities.
• Drive effective cost control and working capital management.

Treasury and Cash Flow Management

• Manage cash flow forecasting and working capital requirements.
• Perform and review bank reconciliations and treasury‑related activities.
• Maintain and manage relationships with banking institutions.
• Support effective cash management and financial risk mitigation.

Compliance, Tax and Audit

• Ensure compliance with relevant financial legislation, internal policies and accounting requirements.
• Take responsibility for internal and external audit requirements and liaise with auditors.
• Prepare and coordinate the required Income Tax documentation and supporting packs.
• Take ownership of VAT and other applicable tax requirements and queries.
• Continuously assess and strengthen financial controls, processes and reporting procedures.
• Maintain and reconcile the fixed asset register.
• Support financial risk management activities, including insurance‑related matters.

Leadership and Stakeholder Management

• Manage, guide and develop the finance team.
• Allocate responsibilities and ensure the effective management of team performance.
• Set KPAs and conduct performance reviews and development discussions.
• Work closely with operational management and other internal stakeholders to improve financial performance.
• Liaise with Head Office Finance to ensure alignment with group processes and reporting requirements.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with key external stakeholders, including banks, suppliers and auditors.

Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve and streamline finance‑related processes.
• Drive the implementation and maintenance of effective financial controls and procedures.
• Support change management initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency and financial reporting.
• BCom Accounting degree or equivalent Commerce qualification.
• Professional registration with, or progress towards, SAICA, CIMA or SAIPA would be advantageous.
• Minimum of 3–5 years' experience in a similar Finance Manager or senior financial management role.
• Previous people management and team leadership experience is essential.
• Strong experience in financial management, management accounting, budgeting and forecasting.
• Experience with expense management, budget analysis, forecasting and debtor management.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and experience working with accounting systems.
• Manufacturing or operational finance experience would be highly advantageous.
• Strong hands‑on approach with the ability to operate effectively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong financial and technical accounting ability.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong commercial and business acumen.
• Effective leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Strong organisational and time‑management skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
• Self‑driven with a proactive and solutions‑focused approach.
• Sound decision‑making and ability to use initiative.
• High levels of integrity and professionalism.