Head Of Finance

Executive Placements; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading packaging manufacturer in Johannesburg is looking for a Head of Finance to lead the finance function and partner with executive leaders. The role involves financial strategy, budgeting, and performance analytics, as well as managing a high-performing finance team. Industry experience in packaging is crucial, along with strong cost accounting and analytical skills. This position offers strategic visibility and the opportunity to influence business growth and enhance competitiveness in a critical sector.

Qualifications

• Minimum years post-articles experience in finance leadership roles.
• Industry experience in packaging or manufacturing is non-negotiable.
• Proven leadership capability with experience managing and developing teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead the full finance function, ensuring accurate financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Drive cost management, margin optimisation, and operational financial performance across sites.
• Partner with production, supply chain, and executive teams for decision-making.

Skills

Cost accounting

Stakeholder engagement

Analytical ability

Commercial acumen

Education

CA(SA)

Chartered Accountant

Tools

ERP systems

Financial reporting tools

Job description

Our client is one of South Africas most established packaging manufacturers, supplying world-class packaging solutions to key sectors including FMCG, food & beverage, industrial, and consumer goods. Known for its large-scale operations, advanced manufacturing technology, and continuous improvement culture, the business offers exceptional exposure to complex production environments and multi-site operational structures.

As the Head of Finance

you will lead the full finance function, partner closely with operations and executive leadership, and spearhead financial strategy, budgeting, cost management, and performance analytics. This role offers the platform to influence long-term growth, optimise margins, and enhance business competitiveness.

What's in it for you?

A role with strategic visibility, influence at an executive level, exposure to high-value manufacturing operations, and an opportunity to lead a full finance team while shaping financial sustainability within a critical South African industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the full finance function, ensuring accurate financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Drive cost management, margin optimisation, and operational financial performance across manufacturing sites.
• Partner with production, supply chain, and executive teams to support commercial and operational decision‑making.
• Strengthen financial controls, compliance, governance, and risk management.
• Lead and develop a high‑performing finance team aligned to business objectives.

Job Experience and Skills Required

• CA(SA)
• Chartered Accountant (Essential)
• Minimum years post‑articles experience in finance leadership roles.
• Industry experience in packaging or manufacturing (Non‑negotiable).
• Strong background in cost accounting, operational finance, and large‑scale production environments.
• Experience working with ERP systems and advanced financial reporting tools.
• Proven leadership capability with experience managing and developing teams.
• Strong commercial acumen, analytical ability, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Apply now!