Business Analyst jobs in South Africa

Large, integrated and well-established group in the agriculture sector is looking to employ a Financial Analyst and Management Accountant. This role will have a strong focus on finance and data analysis. The group has interests across the country and this role will be situated in Paarl, Western Cape.

The ideal candidate will have a relevant tertiary degree with at least 2 years experience in a management accounting and financial analysis role. A professional qualification, especially a CIMA designation, would be highly valued, though other designations are also acceptable given the appropriate job and industry experience.

The purpose of the role is to collect and analyse financial data to determine the gross profits of food projects and product lines, while preparing budgets and cost reports for management with a focus on gross profit and stock control. This role involves identifying areas for cost optimisation, recommending strategies, and working closely with cross-functional teams to ensure accurate cost allocation and the development of enhanced financial models.

This is an excellent opportunity for personal growth as well as growth within this fast expanding business.

Financial Analysis :

• Analyse key financial data to determine gross profits of various projects and product lines.
• Identify gross profit losses, recommend turnaround strategies, and highlight focus areas to maximise profitability.
• Identify opportunities to streamline financial processes for improved efficiency.

Data Collection & Management & Reporting :

• Extract and manage data from multiple sources, including ERP systems and external databases.
• Build and maintain comprehensive datasets for analysis using platforms such as Power BI and Mercur.
• Develop and maintain dashboards and automated reports tracking KPIs, sales metrics, market forecasts, pricing trends, procurement, and operational data for real-time monitoring.
• Improve reporting systems by reviewing current practices and implementing enhancements.

Budgeting and Forecasting :

• Prepare budgets and cost reports with a strong focus on gross profit and stock control.
• Identify opportunities for cost reduction and improved stock management.
• Provide insights to support strategic financial planning and decision-making.

Costings :

• Develop and implement cost-effective financial procedures and risk mitigation strategies.
• Review new costings for accuracy and ensure product line profitability.

Process Optimisation :

• Conduct research to support the development and enhancement of financial models.

Qualifications and Experience :

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Cost Accounting, Management Accounting, Financial Management, Agricultural Economics, or similar.
• Professional qualification - CIMA (ACMA, CGMA) preferred but will consider other qualifications along with the relevant experience.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience.
• Working knowledge in Power BI and Mercur would be highly advantageous.
• Experience as a Management Accountant and Data Analytics in an agricultural, food production, manufacturing, or related environment.
• Advanced MS Excel skills.

Key competencies :

• Ability to work under pressure.
• Communicate in a professional manner.
• High attention to detail.
• Ability to function independently.
• Innovative thinker.
• Organisational skills.
• Deadline driven.
• Ability to build credible relationships with internal and external clients.

Remuneration :

• R540,000 to R720,000 per annum cost to company, depending on experience.