Job Description

Who will you be working with?
Wabtec is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added services. Whether it's freight rail, transit, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise, technologies, and people - together - are accelerating the future of transportation.
Role: Senior Finance Manager
Location: Johannesburg
How will you make a difference?
As a Senior Finance Manager, you will oversee the entire finance function for a manufacturing operation within the rail sector. This includes budgeting, financial forecasting, operational finance, reporting, controllership, and statutory compliance. You will act as a key business partner to the Site Director and leadership team, driving execution, cost management, and working capital optimisation. A strong focus on process improvement and simplification will be essential.
What will your typical day look like?

• Lead annual budgeting and monthly/quarterly forecasting (orders, sales, cost, margins, CFOA) in collaboration with commercial and operations teams.
• Partner with the Sales Director to support tendering processes, ensuring accuracy and completeness of inputs and assumptions.
• Work closely with the Site Director and operational teams (project management, planning, sourcing, supply chain, manufacturing) to ensure on-time delivery and execution.
• Provide insights on risks and opportunities, implementing and tracking mitigation plans.
• Manage monthly and quarterly financial close and reporting in line with corporate calendars.
• Supervise the site finance team (2 members) across all finance cycles (production, inventory, AR/AP, GL, reconciliations, cash, fixed assets).
• Drive working capital management, including customer collections and supplier payments.
• Oversee cash/bank transactions and payroll processing.
• Support simplification initiatives with clear cost-benefit analysis.
• Collaborate with local, regional, and global functions (HR, Treasury, Statutory, Localization) to ensure timely deliverables.
• Prepare board packs and attend board meetings to present performance, risks, and opportunities.

What do we want to know about you?

• Degree in Accounting or Finance.
• Experience in finance roles, with strong exposure to manufacturing/operational finance and statutory compliance.
• Experience with industrial projects/programs and long-term contract accounting.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with advanced PowerPoint and presentation capabilities.
• Knowledge of GAAP standards and legal authorisation to work in South Africa.

If you don't have all the above criteria don't worry, we would still like to hear from you as we live our values and always put people first, and strive to expand what is possible.
Apply today!
Legal authorisation to work in South Africa is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening.
*Please note that we do not accept agency candidate submissions without a formalised agreement with Wabtec Talent Acquisition. If you are an agency/third party Recruiter and have not been engaged by Wabtec for this search, we do not owe you a fee if you submit a candidate to the applicant tracking system that is ultimately hired.
Additional Information
What could you accomplish in a place that puts People First?
At Wabtec, it's not just about a job - it's about the impact you make. When our people come together, we're Expanding the Possible by continuously improving what we do and how we do it - for our clients and each other.
If you're ready to revolutionize how the world moves for future generations, Wabtec is the place for you.
Who are we?
Wabtec is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added services for the freight and transit rail sectors. Drawing on more than 150 years of experience, we are leading the way in safety, efficiency, reliability, innovation, and productivity. Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise, technologies, and people together - are accelerating the future of transportation. With roots that date back to George Westinghouse, Thomas Edison, and Louis Faiveley, Wabtec has always built technologies and implemented solutions for a variety of sectors that are critical to meeting the needs of customers and governments alike.
Our global team of about 30,000 employees worldwide delivers performance that moves the world forward. We're lifelong learners, obsessed with better. Learn more at www.WabtecCorp.com.
Culture powers us and the possibilities.
We believe the best ideas come from a mix of experiences and backgrounds. At Wabtec, we strive every day to create a place where everyone belongs. We're building a culture where leadership, inclusion and your unique perspective fuel progress.
We're proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome talent of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities, including race, gender, age, disability, veteran status and more.
Need accommodation? Just let us know - we've got you.

Skills Required