Head of Finance and Operations

A medium sized manufacturing organisation based in Randburg is currently recruiting for a hands-on and detailed-orientated individual to head up the finance function. The successful incumbent will maximise profitability, drive operational improvements, expand into new markets, and build a high-performing, independent finance team — all while working collaboratively across the business to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction.

This role is on-site Monday to Friday.

Responsibilities:

Full Financial & Audit Function

• Lead the entire finance function, from daily operations to strategic planning.
• Manage the full audit process, ensuring readiness, accuracy, and compliance at all times.
• Compile monthly management accounts and present detailed reports to the Board and shareholders.
• Sign off the Annual Financial Statements (AFS) in line with statutory requirements.
• Provide clear financial analysis, insights, and recommendations to support decision-making.

Team Leadership & Development

• Manage a small finance department of approximately five people.
• Build a solid, robust finance team that works independently towards a shared company goal.
• Lead by example — working hands-on while empowering the team to take ownership of their functions.
• Learn the business deeply to identify operational gaps, cost-saving opportunities, and efficiency improvements.

Cross-Department Collaboration

• Work closely with all department heads to improve efficiencies and processes.
• Collaborate across teams to enhance customer satisfaction through operational excellence.
• Ensure financial planning aligns with the needs of production, sales, logistics, and customer service.

Cost Control & Supplier Negotiation

• Verify BOMs, ingredient costs, and product margins to ensure profitability.
• Negotiate discounts with suppliers and secure better trading terms.
• Optimise volume discounts through strategic purchasing.
• Continuously seek opportunities to reduce costs and operate more efficiently.
• Promote a "work smarter, not harder" approach to long-term operational savings.

Day-to-Day Administration

• Oversee daily administrative functions to ensure smooth business operations.
• Identify and address gaps in admin processes to improve workflow and accuracy.

Strategic Growth, Profitability & Continuous Improvement

• Identify and execute opportunities for growth that maximise profitability.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across finance, operations, and supply chain.
• Apply strong cost allocation of overheads and itemise different income streams to identify, monitor, and optimise profitability across the business.

Market Development & Exports

• Identify new markets and products for long-term growth.
• Investigate and develop export opportunities and strategies for market entry.
• Analyse trends, demand, and competition to guide investment decisions.

Commercial Engagement

• Work closely with the COO and CEO on price negotiations with key customers.
• Maintain strong customer relationships to ensure commercial success.
• Provide financial insights to support contract terms and strategic agreements.

Imports & Forex Management

• Oversee all import processes for raw materials and goods.
• Manage foreign exchange (forex) payments for imports, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Monitor currency fluctuations and assess cost impact.

Automation & Process Optimisation

• Review current manual accounting and stock control systems for inefficiencies.
• Recommend and implement automation solutions to improve speed, accuracy, and reporting.
• Oversee integration and ensure successful staff adoption.

Budgeting & KPI Setting

• Lead the budget-setting process across all departments.
• Establish clear KPIs for staff aligned with company objectives.
• Monitor performance and take corrective action when necessary.

HR Leadership

• Oversee recruitment, performance management, payroll, and employee relations.
• Ensure compliance with labour laws and promote a high-performance culture.

BBBEE & ESG Compliance

• Manage BBBEE submissions and implement strategies to improve ratings.
• Oversee ESG compliance and ensure commitments are met.
• Drive sustainability initiatives with measurable business and community benefits.

Creditors & Financial Control

• Review, verify, and sign off creditors daily, weekly, and monthly.
• Oversee reconciliations, resolve variances, and approve payments.
• Maintain strong cash flow and working capital management.

Governance, Compliance & Policy Management

• Ensure the business adheres to its Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI) and all investor mandates.
• Review credit applications and conduct bank checks on all new customers.
• Review, update, and enforce business and finance policies regularly.
• Ensure the business remains legally compliant in all areas, including finance, legal, health & safety, and labour laws.

Qualifications

• Degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (
  CA(SA)
  or CIMA highly advantageous).
• 10-15 years financial management experience
• MUST have strong manufacturing industry experience