Job Description

Purpose of the role

The Assistant Finance Manager will support the Finance Manager in managing the company's end-to-end finance function, ensuring efficient day-to-day financial operations, compliance with accounting standards, and delivery of accurate financial information. The role includes hands-on involvement in transaction processing, month-end closing, and cash flow management, while also providing leadership to the finance team and partnering with operational managers to drive profitability in the retail environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1.

Day-to-Day Finance Operations

Oversee daily financial processes including invoicing, payments, receipts, reconciliations, and petty cash management. Monitor banking activities and ensure sufficient cash flow for operational requirements. Ensure proper capturing and recording of all transactions in the ERP system. Resolve finance-related queries from internal departments and external stakeholders promptly.


2. Financial Reporting & Month-End


Prepare and review monthly management accounts, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Support the Finance Manager with budget preparation, forecasts, and variance analysis. Ensure all balance sheet reconciliations are completed and reviewed monthly. Assist with year-end financial statements and audit preparations. Be the lead on External and Internal Audits.

3. Compliance & Governance


Ensure compliance with IFRS, company policies, and statutory obligations (VAT, Income Tax, etc.). Implement and maintain strong internal controls to safeguard company assets. Prepare documentation and liaise with auditors during internal and external audits.


4. Retail Financial Operations


Monitor store-level performance reports, including sales, gross margins, and operating costs. Analyse trends in shrinkage, wastage, and inventory variances, recommending corrective action. Partner with store managers and operations teams to improve cost efficiency.


5. Leadership & People Management


Lead, coach, and develop the finance team to achieve departmental goals. Conduct performance reviews and identify training needs. Ensure effective work allocation and continuity during absences.


6. Strategic & Project Support


Assist in financial modelling and business case development for retail projects. Lead system developments, improvements and automation initiatives. Provide ad-hoc financial analysis to support operational decision-making.

Operational Performance


Uphold strict and effective quality measures within the business ensuring that the requirements of relevant legislation are always met, eg VAT, BEE, etc. Ensure that if there are internal or external escalations, that the escalations happen as quickly as possible and with all relevant information.

Qualifications and Experience

:


Completed Accounting or Finance Degree. Completed SAICA articles (eligible to register as CA(SA) advantageous). Minimum 3 years' post-articles experience (Retail or FMCG preferred). Demonstrated experience managing a finance team. Strong knowledge of IFRS and South African tax legislation.

Skills you bring

:


Advanced Excel skills and experience with ERP systems, including managing interfaces. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Excellent leadership and people management skills. High attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines. * Strong interpersonal and communication skills for cross-functional collaboration