CFO - Agricultural Export Industry

Our client, a leading producer, packer, and exporter of citrus and table grapes in the Western Cape, is seeking an experienced Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to lead financial strategy, transformation, and growth within their expanding organisation. Operating across multiple farms and exporting to the UK and international markets, our client offers a unique opportunity to join a stable, family-owned business with strong values and a commitment to excellence.

As a key member of the executive team, the CFO will partner closely with the CEO and senior leadership to drive financial performance, support data-driven decision-making, and ensure robust financial management during a critical transition period as the current CFO retires.

This role is based in Bellville, Cape Town, with occasional domestic travel and the possibility of some international travel with the CEO.

• Provide commercial and strategic financial support to the CEO and management team
• Lead financial reporting, planning, budgeting, and forecasting processes
• Analyse financial performance and recommend improvements to enhance profitability
• Support investment decisions and business development initiatives
• Oversee cash flow management and liquidity
• Ensure effective risk management and regulatory compliance
• Build and maintain strong relationships with shareholders

• Manage complex seasonal cash flow cycles and working capital requirements
• Oversee foreign exchange exposure and implement appropriate hedging strategies for international trade
• Support capital investments in farming, packing, and logistics infrastructure
• Ensure compliance with export regulations and relevant industry standards
• Drive digital transformation through the implementation of new systems and streamlined processes
• Implement and maintain robust internal controls and audit processes
• Lead and manage a diverse finance team, including decentralised elements supporting operational units

• Learn the business operations and build relationships across the organisation
• Work closely with the retiring CFO to ensure a comprehensive handover
• Establish credibility with key stakeholders and the finance team
• Review and understand current financial systems, processes, and controls

• Professional
  
  Qualification:
  
  Chartered Accountant (CA) SA or equivalent SAICA qualification
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years  progressive finance experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role
• Financial Expertise: Proven expertise in financial planning, analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and risk management
• Technical
  
  Skills:
  
  Strong knowledge of financial reporting, internal controls, audit processes, cash flow management, and regulatory compliance
• Leadership: Demonstrated strong leadership, communication, and people management skills
• Personal Attributes: High level of integrity, family values, and commitment to continuous improvement
• Languages: Fluency in English and Afrikaans (written and spoken)

• Master s degree or MBA
• Experience in the agricultural industry, particularly citrus and table grape production/export
• Knowledge of producer/packer/exporter environments in the Western Cape
• Proficiency with Microsoft Business Central
• Experience with:
• Foreign exchange exposure and hedging for international trade
• Seasonal cash flow cycles and working capital management
• Export regulations compliance
• Digital transformation via new systems and streamlined processes
• Capital investments in farming, packing, and logistics

Compensation:

• Cost to Company (CTC): R3.5 million – R5 million per annum, depending on experience and qualifications
• Performance-based bonus structure
• Flexibility for exceptional candidates

Benefits:

• Comprehensive retirement benefits
• Relocation assistance provided for suitable candidates

Additional Information:

• Strong handover period with the current CFO
• Supportive, diverse, and innovative team culture
• Opportunities for career advancement and continuous learning
• Highest level finance position within the organisation

Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers operating in accordance with South African employment legislation. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, suitably qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without unfair discrimination on the basis of race, gender, sex, pregnancy, marital status, family responsibility, ethnic or social origin, colour, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, HIV status, conscience, belief, political opinion, culture, language, birth, or any other arbitrary ground as prohibited by the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended.

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