Financial Controller

SUMMARY:
Financial Controller – full finance function ownership across the Group

POSITION INFO:
Africrest Properties is seeking an experienced and highly organised Financial Controller to take full ownership of the Group finance function. Reporting to the Head of Finance, this role provides leadership, structure, and accountability across Finance Managers, Financial Accountants, and the Creditors function. It is an excellent opportunity for a strong technical accountant with proven leadership ability who thrives in a fast-growing property environment and takes pride in robust controls, clean processes, and audit-ready reporting. Key Responsibilities Take full accountability for the operational effectiveness, quality, and control environment of the Group finance function. Design, implement, document, and continuously improve end-to-end finance processes, including month-end close, journals and reconciliations, VAT and statutory processes, treasury, and audit preparation. Establish and enforce strong financial controls and consistent standards across all entities. Provide hands-on leadership to Finance Managers, Financial Accountants, and the Creditors Controller, driving ownership and accountability. Coordinate and manage month-end close across the Group, including review of journals, balance sheet reconciliations, intercompany transactions, and elimination journals. Review consolidated income statements, balance sheets, and external covenant reporting prior to submission to the Head of Finance. Oversee VAT compliance, PAYE payments, CIPC returns, and statutory tracking schedules. Oversee treasury management, including cash sweeps, bank account administration, and liquidity planning. Prepare quarterly Board and third-party shareholder reporting for review by the Head of Finance. Own interim and year-end audits across the Group, including audit planning, auditor management, audit file quality, and resolution of findings. Oversee budget timelines and consolidated budget preparation with Property Managers and Finance Managers. Oversee the DOKKA accounts payable system, FICA processes, and finance-related system controls. Act as escalation point for stakeholder queries on financial accounts. Minimum Requirements Accounting post-graduate degree. CA(SA), SAIPA, ACCA or CIMA (preferred). At least 5-7 years'' experience as a Finance Manager with full finance function exposure. Strong technical accounting knowledge (IFRS for SMEs). MDA experience preferred. Property industry experience preferred. Strong Excel and financial systems capability. Key Competencies Strong leadership presence with the confidence to drive accountability and challenge non-performance. Proven ability to design and embed controls and processes, not simply review them. Deep understanding of full finance function operations, not only reporting. Highly organised, proactive, and detail driven. Excellent written, verbal, interpersonal, and organisational skills. Analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Comfortable operating in a fast-growing, complex environment. Willingness to work additional hours as the demands of the role require. Why Join Africrest Properties? Be part of a growing residential property management company. Lead and develop a dynamic, collaborative Finance team. Gain exposure to a diverse property portfolio across the Group. Permanent position based in Johannesburg. Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV, supporting documents, and salary expectations. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.