Head of Finance and Controlling Optronics

HENSOLDT AG; Irene; On-site; ZAR 2,000,000 - 3,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working model

Attractive salary and special payments

Job summary

HENSOLDT South Africa seeks a Head of Finance and Controlling Optronics to lead the BU's finance and controlling functions, blending strategic leadership with hands-on management and governance. You will ensure financial integrity, drive performance and support informed commercial decisions.

The role requires a BCom in accounting/finance with IFRS exposure, 10+ years in finance within an operational or project context, and a background in international trade. A CIMA qualification is advantageous.

Qualifications

• BCom degree in accounting/finance including Accounting III.
• CIMA or equivalent professional qualification will be advantageous.
• Minimum 10 years’ progressive finance experience in operational/manufacturing or project-based settings.
• Advanced knowledge of international business and trade.
• Knowledge and practical application of IFRS.

Responsibilities

• Lead budgeting, forecasting and financial planning across the Business Unit with key stakeholders to identify risks, opportunities and actions for improved performance.
• Direct the review and control of accounting entries, reconciliations and financial schedules to maintain IFRS compliance and strong governance.
• Prepare and evaluate management accounts, financial reports, cash-flow forecasts and variance analyses for actionable business insights.
• Provide hands-on financial leadership across projects and operations through project accounting, cost control and revenue recognition.
• Lead and develop the Finance and Controlling team to deliver high-quality financial services.

Skills

Financial Planning

Budgeting & Forecasting

Financial Reporting

IFRS

Revenue Recognition

Cost Accounting

Cash-Flow Forecasting

Working Capital

Audit Management

Excel & Modelling

Contract & Project Accounting

Education

BCom Degree in Accounting/Finance

CIMA or equivalent

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 6653

Location: Irene, ZA

Head of Finance and Controlling Optronics

About the Role

The Head of Finance and Controlling leads the Business Unit’s finance and controlling function by combining strategic financial leadership with hands‑on financial management, analysis and operational support. The role protects financial integrity, enables informed commercial decision‑making and drives sustainable business performance while ensuring compliance with statutory, accounting and corporate governance requirements.

Qualification and experience

• BCom Degree in Accounting, Finance or an equivalent qualification, including Accounting III.
• CIMA or an equivalent professional finance qualification will be advantageous.
• Minimum 10 years’ progressive finance experience within an operational, manufacturing or project-based environment.
• Advanced knowledge and experience in international business and trade.
• Knowledge and practical application of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

Key technical skills

• Financial Planning, Budgeting and Forecasting
• Financial Reporting and Management Accounting
• IFRS and Project Financial Compliance
• Revenue Recognition
• Long‑Term Contract and Project Accounting
• Manufacturing Finance and Cost Accounting
• Cash‑Flow Forecasting
• Working‑Capital Management
• Commercial Finance and Business Partnering
• Profitability and Variance Analysis
• Bid Costing and Contract Review
• Financial Risk Management
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and Financial Modelling
• Audit Management

Key responsibilities Financial Strategy, Planning and Business Partnering

Lead budgeting, forecasting and financial planning across the Business Unit while partnering with executive, programme and operational stakeholders to identify financial risks, opportunities and corrective actions, resulting in improved business performance and informed strategic decision‑making.

Financial Control, Governance and Compliance

Direct the review and control of accounting entries, reconciliations, financial schedules and control processes across the Business Unit to maintain compliance with IFRS, statutory requirements and corporate finance policies, resulting in accurate financial records and strong financial governance.

Financial Reporting and Commercial Analysis

Prepare and critically evaluate management accounts, financial reports, cash‑flow forecasts, profitability analyses and performance information to translate financial results and variances into actionable commercial insights, resulting in timely and evidence‑based management decisions.

Operational Finance and Project Support

Provide hands‑on financial leadership across projects, bids and business operations through project accounting, cost control, revenue recognition, contract review, working‑capital management and SAP financial processes to resolve complex financial matters, resulting in commercially sound programme execution and controlled financial performance.

Finance Leadership and Capability Development

Lead and develop the Finance and Controlling team by establishing clear performance expectations, strengthening technical capability and improving financial processes to build an accountable and business‑focused finance function, resulting in consistent delivery of high‑quality financial services.

HENSOLDT South Africa focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion in our organisational strategy. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive corporate culture that benefits our employees and delivers better outcomes for our clients. In line with our commitment to equal employment opportunities and our focus on diversity in the operational environment, we welcome applications from all ethnic groups. In line with HENSOLDT's commitment to equal employment opportunities and our focus on diversity in the operational environment, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups.

Application Deadline 15 October 2026.

We support you with flexible working models and offers to help you balance work and family life.

We offer an attractive salary and special payments.

Personal & Professional Development

We support your development with structured onboarding, targeted training programs and tailored talent development.

Working Atmosphere

We offer an innovative working atmosphere with modern premises and expert networks.

Health & Prevention

We promote your health with ergonomic workstations, health management and occupational health and safety programs.

Mobility & Sustainability

We promote mobility and sustainability through various and special offers.

HENSOLDT is committed to diversity and an inclusive corporate culture. We therefore welcome all applications - regardless of origin, age, gender, disability, identity or ideology.