Chief Financial Officer (CFO) (Stellenbosch) at Datafin Recruitment

ENVIRONMENT:

• PLAY a critical role in ensuring the effective management of financial operations as the next Chief Financial Officer sought by a growing dynamic Investment and Commercial Property Management Firm.
• You will be responsible for overseeing all financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, cash flow management, and ensuring compliance with relevant financial regulations.
• Within the property development environment, the CFO will play a vital role in project financing, investment structuring, and long-term capital planning. The successful incumbent must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field (CA(SA) or similar professional qualification with at least 5 years’ experience in a senior financial management role with a proven track record and a solid understanding of financial regulations and tax laws in South Africa.

DUTIES:

• Prepare accurate and timely financial reports, including monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Provide financial analysis and insights to support business decisions and strategic planning, particularly relating to property development projects and investments.
• Monitor key financial metrics and performance indicators to ensure the financial health of the company.
• Develop and manage the annual budget, working closely with Department Heads to ensure alignment with company goals.
• Provide regular updates on financial performance versus budget and forecast, highlighting variances and recommending corrective actions.
• Oversee cash flow management to ensure sufficient liquidity for day-to-day operations and project funding requirements.
• Implement effective strategies for managing receivables and payables and ensuring timely payments.
• Manage banking relationships and funding partners, including maintaining strong relationships with commercial banks, development finance institutions, and other lenders.
• Negotiate banking facilities, oversee debt covenants, manage loan applications and drawdowns, and ensure optimal funding structures to support operational requirements and property development projects.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations, tax laws, and industry standards relevant to South Africa and the property development sector.
• Coordinate with external auditors during the annual audit process.
• Work closely with the management team to develop and implement long-term financial strategies, including funding structures and capital allocation.
• Provide financial modelling and analysis to support business expansion, property acquisitions, investments, and cost management decisions.
• Work cross-functionally with other departments within the organization, including intercompany transactions and loan structures.

REQUIREMENTS:

Qualifications –

• Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field (CA(SA) or similar professional qualification preferred).

Experience/Skills –

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a senior financial management role, ideally within a property development, manufacturing, or retail environment.
• Proven track record of managing financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and compliance.
• Strong understanding of financial regulations and tax laws in South Africa.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a strategic mindset.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across all levels of the organization.

​​​​​​​Advantageous –

• Experience with project-based accounting, property finance, or development funding structures.

ATTRIBUTES:

• High level of integrity, professionalism, and attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to present financial information clearly to both financial and non-financial stakeholders.
• Results-driven, with a focus on continuous improvement and operational efficiency.
• Commercially astute with a proactive approach to identifying opportunities and mitigating risks.