Financial Manager

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an experienced and commercially minded Financial Manager to join a well-established fine foods distribution and import business in Stellenbosch. This is an excellent opportunity for a finance professional with strong leadership abilities, sound financial management experience and a strategic approach to overseeing financial operations within a dynamic commercial environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the full financial function of the business, ensuring accurate reporting and effective financial controls.

• Prepare and review monthly management accounts, financial statements and performance reports.

• Manage budgeting, forecasting and cash flow planning to support business objectives.

• Monitor financial performance, analyse variances and provide actionable insights to senior management.

• Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, reconciliations and general ledger activities.

• Manage month-end and year-end closing processes, ensuring accuracy and timely completion.

• Ensure compliance with relevant tax legislation, accounting standards and statutory reporting requirements.

• Oversee VAT submissions, tax-related matters and audit preparations.

• Monitor working capital, stock-related financial processes and cost control within the distribution and import environment.

• Manage relationships with banks, auditors, suppliers and other key financial stakeholders.

• Identify financial risks and implement appropriate internal controls and procedures.

• Lead, support and develop the finance team, promoting accountability and operational efficiency.

• Provide financial guidance to management to support strategic planning and informed decision-making.

• Identify opportunities to improve financial systems, reporting processes and overall business profitability.

Requirements:

• Proven experience in a Financial Manager or senior accounting role.

• A relevant finance or accounting qualification is essential; a professional accounting designation would be advantageous.

• Strong knowledge of financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting and cash flow management.

• Experience managing the full finance function within a commercial, distribution, wholesale or import business would be highly advantageous.

• Sound understanding of VAT, taxation, statutory compliance and financial controls.

• Excellent analytical, numerical and problem-solving skills.

• Strong leadership abilities, with experience managing and developing a finance team.

• Proficiency in accounting software, financial reporting systems and Microsoft Excel.

• Exceptional attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage confidently with senior management and external stakeholders.

• A proactive, commercially aware and solutions-driven approach.

Salary: R50,000 – R60,000 per month, depending on experience.

Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

Industry: Fine Foods Distribution and Import Business.