General Manager - Finance

Abantu Staffing Solutions; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1 100 000 - 1 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment company is seeking a General Manager: Finance to provide strategic financial leadership and oversee all financial functions. The ideal candidate will have a postgraduate qualification in Finance or Accounting, and at least 10 years of experience including 5 years in a senior leadership role. Responsibilities include developing financial strategies, managing compliance, and leading a high-performing finance team.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 / Matric (essential).
• Minimum 10 years’ relevant accounting and financial management experience.
• At least 5 years in a senior leadership or GM-level role.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement financial strategies.
• Manage budgeting and forecasting processes.
• Lead cost analysis and efficiency initiatives.

Skills

Strategic financial planning

Leadership

Analytical skills

Communication

Commercial acumen

Education

Postgraduate qualification in Finance, Accounting, or Business Management

Tools

ERP systems

Financial reporting systems

Job description

Purpose of the role

The General Manager: Finance will provide strategic financial leadership and direction to the organisation, ensuring sound financial management, governance, and compliance across all business units. This role will oversee the full financial function — from accounting, reporting, and budgeting to risk management and operational finance — while driving sustainable growth and profitability in line with the company’s strategic objectives.

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 / Matric (essential)
• Postgraduate qualification in Finance, Accounting, or Business Management
• Minimum 10 years’ relevant accounting and financial management experience, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership or GM-level role
• Strong knowledge of FMCG industry operations, costing, and financial structures
• Advanced understanding of tax, audit, and compliance requirements

Proficient in ERP and financial reporting systems

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Financial Leadership

• Develop and implement financial strategies to support the overall business goals and growth targets.
• Serve as a key member of the executive team, contributing to business planning and decision-making.
• Analyse financial performance and provide insights and recommendations to optimise costs and improve profitability.
• Ensure effective financial controls, governance, and risk management practices across all operations.

Financial Management & Reporting

• Oversee the preparation of accurate, timeous monthly, quarterly, and annual management and financial reports.
• Manage the budgeting and forecasting processes, ensuring alignment with operational objectives.
• Oversee all tax, audit, and compliance functions in accordance with statutory and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure the safekeeping and optimal utilisation of company funds and assets.

Operational Finance & Cost Control

• Lead cost analysis and efficiency initiatives across departments and projects.
• Partner with operational managers to drive productivity and identify savings opportunities.
• Support product costing, pricing strategies, and margin analysis to maintain competitiveness in the FMCG sector.

Leadership & People Development

• Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing finance team that supports the company’s goals.
• Promote a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and collaboration across the finance function.
• Drive training and development initiatives to enhance staff capability and succession planning.

Compliance & Governance

• Ensure full compliance with accounting standards, company policies, and relevant legal and regulatory requirements.
• Liaise with auditors, financial institutions, and government/regulatory bodies.
• Uphold strong ethical standards and maintain transparent financial operations.

Key Competencies

• Strategic financial planning and business acumen
• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Analytical and problem-solving ability
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Commercially astute, with a focus on profitability and sustainable growth
• Ethical, decisive, and results-driven