Group Financial Manager: Operations

SUMMARY:

Our client is a South African family-owned agricultural and logistics group with international operations. They need an experienced Group Financial Manager: Operations to lead strategic financial management, control, reporting and risk oversight across the operations division—a portfolio spanning logistics entities, farms, packaging facilities...

POSITION INFO:
Our client is a South African family-owned agricultural and logistics group with international operations. They need an experienced Group Financial Manager: Operations to lead strategic financial management, control, reporting and risk oversight across the operations division—a portfolio spanning logistics entities, farms, packaging facilities, mills, silo depots and property assets. Key Responsibilities Lead the financial function for the operations business; provide strategic financial guidance to divisional and executive management on performance, capital allocation, investment opportunities and strategic decisions. Develop and implement financial strategy aligned to group objectives; evaluate financial viability of projects, capital expenditure and strategic initiatives. Manage consolidated financial reporting: review and consolidate results across all relevant entities; ensure timely, accurate and reliable month-end and year-end reporting in compliance with IFRS and group policy. Develop meaningful management dashboards and performance reports; analyse financial results, KPIs and trends; identify variances, risks and improvement opportunities. Lead the annual budget process; co-ordinate financial forecasts and scenario planning; monitor performance against approved budgets. Support operational management with cost management and profitability analysis; drive initiatives to improve operating margins and revenue; promote data-driven decision-making. Monitor cash flow and financing needs; work closely with treasury on working capital optimisation, financing requests and engagement with financial institutions. Oversee inventory management, fixed asset control and capital expenditure; monitor stock levels, turnover and obsolescence risk. Identify and manage key financial and operational risks; ensure compliance with group policy, IFRS and regulatory requirements; support internal and external audits; monitor implementation of internal controls. Lead and develop the financial team; mentor future financial leaders; foster a high-performance culture and accountability; support succession planning and cross-functional collaboration. Requirements Chartered Accountant (South Africa) (CA(SA)) or CIMA (CGMA). Minimum 5 years' relevant financial management experience. Strong financial analysis capabilities; advanced Excel and financial modelling skills. Knowledge of IFRS, financial reporting, risk management and internal control frameworks. High level of integrity, accuracy, professional judgement and attention to detail. Excellent analytical, communication, leadership and mentoring skills. Ability to function under pressure and interpret complex financial information strategically. Experience in agricultural, manufacturing, logistics or operational environments is strongly preferred.