Job Description

Job Title:

Senior Finance Manager

Location:

Sandton, Johannesburg

Employment Type:

Full-Time

Reports To:

Managing Partner / Finance Director

Job Overview:

A prestigious law firm based in Sandton is seeking a highly experienced and commercially astute

Senior Finance Manager

to lead the firm's financial strategy, reporting, and operational finance functions. This is a senior leadership role ideally suited to a

CA(SA)

with a minimum of

8 years' post-articles experience

, preferably within a professional services or legal environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the financial planning and analysis (FP&A) function, including annual budgets, forecasts, and long-term strategic plans. Manage and oversee the preparation of accurate monthly management accounts, statutory financial statements, and reports. Monitor and optimise working capital, including billing cycles, collections, and partner distributions. Drive financial performance through in-depth analysis, cost management, and strategic insights. Ensure compliance with accounting standards (IFRS), tax legislation, and regulatory requirements. Liaise with external auditors, SARS, and financial institutions as required. Oversee payroll, vendor payments, trust accounting and tax submissions (VAT, PAYE, provisional tax). Develop, refine, and enforce financial policies, systems, and internal controls. Partner with the leadership team to support decision-making, pricing models, and profitability analysis. Lead and mentor a small finance and accounts team, ensuring continuous improvement and skills development.

Minimum Requirements:

Registered

Chartered Accountant - CA(SA)

qualification (non-negotiable). At least

8 years' post-articles experience

, with a proven track record in a senior financial management role. Prior experience in a

law firm

or

professional services firm

(advantageous). Solid understanding of

trust account management

, compliance, and legal billing practices. Strong knowledge of South African tax law, Companies Act, and financial reporting standards (IFRS). High proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with accounting software (e.g., Pastel, AJS, or similar legal practice management systems).

Attributes & Competencies:

High level of integrity and professional ethics. Strong commercial acumen and analytical mindset. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Strategic thinker with attention to detail. Able to work independently and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment
Job Type: Full-time

Experience:

Financial manager: 8 years (Required)
Work Location: In person