Finance Manager

Job Holder

Job Title: Finance Manager

Business Unit: Finance

Geographic Location: Johannesburg

Name & Title of Direct Superior: Head of Finance

Number of Immediate Subordinates/ Direct Reports: 6

Main Purpose of Job:

• As a Financial Manager with a specialized operational focus in the pharmaceutical industry, you will play a critical role in ensuring the financial health and operational efficiency of our organization.
• You will be responsible for overseeing and optimizing financial processes, cashflow management, analyzing operational data, and providing strategic insights to drive business performance and profitability.
• You will oversee the financial activities within the organization, ensuring sound financial planning, reporting, and analysis.
• The Financial Manager will collaborate with cross-functional teams to support strategic decision-making, drive financial performance, and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

Key Performance Areas (Core, essential responsibilities outputs of the position):

• Financial Planning and Analysis:
  • Oversee the preparation of monthly management reports including variance analysis to assess the company's financial health and to support strategic decision-making.
  • Analyse financial performance, identify trends, and provide actionable recommendations to improve operational efficiency and profitability.
  • Conduct variance analysis and prepare regular reports for senior management to track key financial metrics and performance against targets and budgets.
  • Prepare financial forecasts and annual budgets.
• Operational Efficiency:
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Supply Chain, Sales and operation, to identify opportunities for cost optimization and process improvement.
  • Analyse operational data and performance metrics to identify areas of inefficiency and develop strategies to streamline and automate processes and reduce costs.
  • Implement best practices and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and maximize resource utilization.
• Strategic Financial Management:
  • Collaborate with senior management to provide financial insights and support for strategic planning.
  • Evaluate investment opportunities and assess their financial impact on the organization.
  • Participate in the development and execution of financial strategies to enhance profitability and shareholder value.
• Cash Flow Management:
  • Monitor and manage cash flow, liquidity, and working capital to support operational needs.
  • Implement effective cash management strategies and optimize the use of financial resources.
• Annual Financial Audits:
  • Manage annual financial audits for all companies and liaising with auditors.
  • Collation of all supporting documents for Annual financial statements.
• Team Leadership and Development:
  • Lead and mentor a team of financial analysts, providing guidance, feedback, and professional development opportunities to foster growth and enhance performance.
  • Foster a collaborative and supportive work environment that encourages teamwork, innovation, and continuous learning.

Minimum Requirements:

EDUCATION:

• CA (SA) or CIMA

Preference for candidates from:

• UCT
• UJ
• University of Pretoria
• Wits

EXPERIENCE:

• Post articles experience min 5-10 years outside of auditing.
• Proven experience as a Financial Manager with experience in financial management, analysis, and reporting.
• Strong understanding of financial principles, including financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and cost analysis.
• Proficiency in financial modeling and data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, ERP systems) with the ability to interpret complex data sets and generate actionable insights.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams and present financial information to senior management.
• Demonstrated leadership and managerial skills, with a track record of leading and developing high-performing teams.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate financial analysis into actionable strategies and drive business results.
• Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to accuracy, integrity, and compliance.

SKILLS/PHYSICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Advanced Excel

BEHAVIOURAL QUALITIES:

• Excellent analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• Proficient in financial modelling and forecasting.
• Drive, sense of urgency.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.