Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Shape the financial future of a high-growth, innovation-driven start-up Bryanston | R1.5 million R2 million per annum (CTC) About Our Client Our client is an ambitious, fast-scaling organisation operating in a dynamic, innovation-led environment. With a strong focus on sustainable growth, operational excellence, and strategic expansion, they offer an opportunity for a senior finance leader to influence direction at both board and operational levels. The culture is collaborative, entrepreneurial, and delivery-driven, with a clear emphasis on empowering people and building a world-class internal finance capability. The Role: Chief Financial Officer (CFO) This role exists to provide strategic financial leadership across the business while elevating the maturity, capability, and performance of the finance function. You will oversee all financial management, reporting, governance, controls, and analyticsensuring the company maintains strong financial discipline while accelerating growth. A key part of your mandate will be to mentor and uplift the finance team, drive systems and process optimisation, and provide meaningful insights that support executive decision-making. Key Responsibilities Bring 10 years of progressive finance experience and lead the full financial management function end-to-end Analyse financial results, produce management accounts, and deliver monthly and annual reports in line with IFRS Oversee budgeting and reforecasting processes, ensuring accurate planning and scenario modelling Implement, review, and enhance financial controls, systems, and operational processes Manage tax compliance requirements, including Income Tax, VA,T and related statutory matters Lead external audit processes and ensure strong governance and regulatory compliance Drive systems improvements, reporting enhancements, and efficiencies across finance Prepare financial models, scenario analyses, and operational reports for executive stakeholders Engage professionally with suppliers, customers, auditors, and other key stakeholders Provide strategic insights and recommendations that strengthen financial performance About You CA(SA) with at least 10 years of progressive finance experience Strong background in strategic financial management; experience in start-up or high-growth environments is highly advantageous Deep understanding of IFRS, tax requirements, budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning Proficient in Pastel and highly skilled in Excel; exposure to BI tools is beneficial Adept at building, mentoring, and developing finance teams Strong analytical capability with proven ability to interpret and communicate financial data Able to operate comfortably at both detailed and strategic levels Excellent communicator with strong interpersonal, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills Highly organised, deadline-driven, accurate, and able to thrive under pressure Proactive, solutions-oriented, reliable, and committed to continuous improvement

Key Responsibilities: Financial Strategy & Leadership Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with the institutions global goals. Provide financial insights and recommendations to the CEO and Board for strategic decision-making. Drive budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning. Global Fund Management Oversee international fund disbursement, ensuring efficient, timely, and compliant allocation of educational grants, scholarships, and operational funding. Manage foreign exchange exposure, international banking relationships, and cross-border payments. Regulatory Compliance & Risk Managemen t Ensure compliance with local and international financial regulations, education sector standards, and audit requirements. Implement strong financial controls and risk management frameworks across all jurisdictions. Operational & Team Leadership Lead the finance team in multiple locations, fostering high performance, accountability, and professional growth. Partner with academic, marketing, technology, and operations teams to align financial plans with institutional priorities. Reporting & Stakeholder Engagement Prepare and present accurate financial reports to internal and external stakeholders, including the board, donors, and regulators. Build trust and transparency with stakeholders by ensuring sound governance and financial integrity. Key Requirements Education: CA(SA), CPA, or equivalent qualification required. Masters degree in Finance, Business Administration, or related field preferred. Experience: Minimum of 10 years in senior financial leadership, ideally within the higher education or broader education sector. Proven experience in international financial operations and fund disbursement. Deep understanding of the regulatory and operational complexities of global educational institutions. Skills & Attributes: Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. High integrity and a commitment to ethical financial leadership. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with an ability to engage with global stakeholders. Adaptive and forward-thinking, with a passion for education and innovation.