South Africa: Assistant Financial Controller posted by Fempower Personnel

Purpose of the job

Support the financial operations of an organization, work closely with the CFO and other members of the finance team to ensure the accurate recording, reporting, and analysis of financial data. The assistant financial controller helps to maintain the financial health of the company by assisting in various financial activities, controls, and processes.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting:

• Assist in the preparation and analysis of financial statements, reports, and budgets. Ensure compliance with accounting principles, regulations, and internal policies.
• Help in the consolidation and reporting of financial results.

Financial Analysis:

• Conduct financial analysis and performance evaluations to provide insights into the company’s financial performance, trends, and opportunities for improvement.
• Support decision-making processes by providing accurate and timely financial information.

Budgeting and Forecasting:

• Assist in the development and monitoring of budgets and forecasts. Collaborate with different departments to gather relevant information, analyse variances, and provide recommendations for cost optimization and budget adherence.

Internal Controls:

• Contribute to the establishment and maintenance of strong internal controls and procedures to safeguard company assets.
• Assist in the implementation of financial policies, guidelines, and best practices.

Audit Support:

• Support internal and external audit processes by providing necessary documentation, explanations, and assistance in addressing audit findings.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and accounting standards.

Cash Flow Management:

• Assist in monitoring and managing the company’s cash flow, including accounts receivable and accounts payable.
• Prepare cash flow forecasts and identify areas for improvement in working capital management.

Financial Systems and Tools:

• Utilize financial software and tools effectively to streamline processes, enhance reporting capabilities, and ensure data accuracy.
• Help in identifying system enhancements and participate in system implementation projects.

Team Collaboration:

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, such as finance, accounting, operations, and senior management, to gather information, provide financial insights, and support decision-making processes.
• Act as a liaison between finance and other departments.

Compliance and Regulatory Reporting:

• Assist in ensuring compliance with financial regulations, tax laws, and reporting requirements.
• Prepare and submit statutory reports and filings accurately and within specified deadlines.

Performing under pressure:

• The job requires a qualified, experienced individual who is able to work under pressure of strict group and local deadlines.
• The successful candidate will need to accept a challenge and take a hands-on approach acting as the right hand to the CFO in the finance department.
• Working close to the CFO, the Assistant Financial Controller role represents one of the most critical responsibilities within the finance team. The tasks of this role will thus be diverse and comprehensive.

Professional Experience

• 5 years post articles experience is desirable, (at least 3 years corporate experience is non-negotiable).
• Proven experience in finance or accounting roles, preferably in a similar capacity.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel is required. Extensive understanding of data analysis tools such as Pivot tables is nonnegotiable.
• At least 2 years SAP experience within the past 5 years.
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial analysis, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Experience with drafting budgets and monthly reporting is preferred.
• Experience with compilation of AFS is essential
• Corporate income tax experience essential
• Experience with assisting external auditors in practice, or SAICA articles (in auditing) is preferred.
• Familiarity with relevant regulations, compliance requirements, and reporting standards.
• Excellent analytical skills with attention to detail and the ability to interpret complex financial data.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders.
• Ability to multitask, prioritise work, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• High level of integrity, ethics, and professionalism in handling sensitive financial information.

Minimum Academic Qualification

• Completed Honours degree and CTA in BCom Accounting Sciences is non negotiable.
• Completed professional accounting designation (e.g., CA(SA), ACCA) is preferred.
• Completed articles is non-negotiable. (SAICA / ACCA )
• Articles with any medium or large audit firm (TIPP) is preferred.

Knowledge, Skill and Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to function within a finance team and high proficiency and confidence working with top level management.
• Demonstrated ability to handle stress within a high pace environment
• Very high level of emotional maturity is essential
• Performance and results driven attitude
• Self-starting & self-driven personality to operate efficient without supervision