Group Financial Controller

Michael Page Africa; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1 100 000 - 1 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A global company in the hospitality industry is seeking an experienced Financial Reporting & Compliance professional to oversee accounting functions for their group companies. Responsibilities include managing financial reporting, leading audits, and ensuring compliance with regulations. The ideal candidate will possess a Professional Accounting Degree, at least ten years of experience, and strong communication skills in both French and English. Join this dynamic organization to make a significant impact in a rewarding finance role.

Benefits

Opportunity to work with a global company in the hospitality industry

Qualifications

• Ten or more years' experience in a similar role.
• Proven finance and management track record in a complex environment.
• Experience in managing a team.

Responsibilities

• Oversee accounting function for group companies.
• Review and consolidate financial statements.
• Lead year-end audit process.
• Ensure compliance with financial controls and internal policies.

Skills

Financial reporting

Team management

Communication skills in French and English

Compliance

Risk management

Education

Professional Accounting Degree

Job description

Financial Reporting & Compliance

Oversee the accounting function for the group's Hotel Operating and Property Companies ("Group Companies"), including close monitoring and review of the hotel operator scope of responsibilities.

Collaborate closely with hotel finance teams, the operator, and owner to compile accurate, timely, and compliant financial reports.

Review and consolidate financial statements, ensuring compliance with group policies, applicable accounting standards, lender requirements, and local regulations.

Ensure all statutory and internal reporting obligations are met, including management accounts, board reports, and lender & tax management.

Lead the year‑end audit process, acting as the key liaison with external auditors to ensure timely completion and clean audit opinions.

Maintain relationships with tax advisors and manage the preparation and submission of tax filings, including transfer pricing and owner‑level tax obligations, coordinating with the Portfolio Company teams for local, treasury, and capital expenditure activities.

Support cash and treasury management activities across the Group.

Monitor capital expenditure transactions, working with the portfolio accountant, project, and hotel teams to ensure assets are accurately recorded and aligned with group accounting policies.

Team Leadership & Oversight

Manage and mentor a small team of Portfolio Accountants, ensuring high standards of performance, development, and collaboration.

Foster strong working relationships across all group companies and finance teams to ensure accurate and diligent execution of responsibilities.

Controls, Risk & Governance

Ensure timely and accurate completion of all key reconciliations (intercompany, bank, owner accounts) across Group Companies.

Support the development and implementation of the group's financial controls, risk management framework, and internal policies.

Corporate Administration & Data Management

Maintain secure and organized records for all Group Companies, including board documentation, statutory filings, and corporate governance materials.

Ensure that all financial and corporate data storage and backup protocols meet the requirements of regulators, auditors, and internal policies.

Ensure full compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, licenses, and internal policies across all Group Companies and departments.

Act as director or legal representative for selected Group Companies as required, ensuring compliance with all local statutory obligations.

Travel to portfolio hotels as required to perform on‑site duties.

Undertake other tasks or responsibilities as assigned.

This role description is not exhaustive and may evolve with business needs.

The Successful Applicant

• Professional Accounting Degree from a reputable university.
• Proven finance and management track record in a complex, dynamic environment.
• Ten or more years' experience in a similar role.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in French and English.
• Experience in managing a team.
• Experience in a professional services environment would be advantageous.
• Experience in African markets and in the hospitality industry (USALI principles) would be desirable.

What’s on Offer

Opportunity to work with a global company in the hospitality industry.

If you are a motivated finance professional seeking a challenging and rewarding role, apply now to join this exciting organisation.