Finance Manager

Job Description

Are you a seasoned finance professional who gets excited by the challenge of "fixing the engine while the car is driving"?

We are recruiting on behalf of a client who is a rapidly growing 360° Below-the-Line (BTL) agency with a unique footprint that includes in-house creative, a full-scale manufacturing factory, and national logistics operations.

They are looking for a Finance Manager to step in, take the reins, and bring their financial operations entirely in-house. This is not a role for a "spectator" CA— they need an entrepreneurial, hands-on leader who wants to own the Trial Balance, implement rigid internal controls, and drive profitability across a complex, multi-faceted business.

This is a critical leadership role with a clear mandate:
reclaim internal control. You will lead a finance team of three and transition our functions away from outsourced support back into the heart of our office.

• Financial Sovereignty: Take full ownership of the Trial Balance and centralize all accounting functions.

• Operational Control: Implement robust internal controls and policies to support a high-volume, fast-moving business.

• Complex Project Accounting: Manage job costing and profitability analysis for a business that manufactures physical goods and delivers experiential events.

• Cash Flow & Debtors: Oversee a multi-million rand debtors book and drive a proactive collections strategy.

• Payroll Oversight: Manage a complex payroll environment involving permanent staff, Brand Ambassadors, and independent contractors.

• Strategic Reporting: Provide the CEO with real-time, accurate financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting to guide business growth.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field.

Minimum 5+ years in a Financial Management role.

Proven experience in managing a full-function finance department.

Must reside in Johannesburg and be able to work daily from our Wynberg office (this is a hands-on, on-site role).

They aren't looking for a "typical" corporate accountant. The team need a business partner who understands the nuance of an agency environment.

• Experience: Ideally ~10 years of diverse experience. While a CA qualification is valued, we prioritize a proven track record in Cost Accounting and project-based financial management.
• Agency DNA: Previous experience in a BTL, experiential, or creative agency is highly preferred
  . You must understand the "agency rhythm."
• Systems Savvy: Proficiency in Chase is essential (job costing/expense management). Familiarity with Xero is a major advantage.
• Leadership Style: You are a "problem-finder" and a "problem-solver." You are comfortable getting your hands dirty in the spreadsheets while simultaneously mentoring your team.
• Entrepreneurial Mindset: You understand that finance is there to support the business's growth, not just to report on it.

Requirements
Minimum 5+ years in a Financial Management role. Proven experience in managing a full-function finance department.

Experience:

Ideally ~10 years of diverse experience. While a CA qualification is valued, we prioritize a proven track record in Cost Accounting and project-based financial management. Agency DNA:
Previous experience in a BTL, experiential, or creative agency is highly preferred. You must understand the "agency rhythm." Systems Savvy:
Proficiency in Chase is essential (job costing/expense management). Familiarity with Xero is a major advantage. Leadership Style:
You are a "problem-finder" and a "problem-solver." You are comfortable getting your hands dirty in the spreadsheets while simultaneously mentoring your team. Entrepreneurial Mindset:
You understand that finance is there to support the business's growth, not just to report on it.