Head of Finance at wePlace

Summary: 

• The Head of Finance is a key member of the leadership team, reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, and plays a critical role in overseeing the financial health, strategic planning, and financial compliance. This role requires a finance leader who is adept at managing complex financial operations, implementing financial strategies and ensuring sound governance practices in a rapidly evolving industry. The successful candidate will provide strong leadership, vision, and guidance to the finance team, driving financial growth and operational efficiencies.

Roles and responsibilities:

• Financial Strategy and Planning
• Develop and execute financial strategies aligned with the company’s business objectives, industry trends, and growth opportunities.
• Lead long-term financial planning, including budgeting and forecasting, investment planning, and risk management, to support business sustainability and scalability.
• Drive strategic cost management initiatives and optimise profitability through pricing strategies, cost-saving initiatives, and financial analysis.
• Financial Reporting and Analysis
• Oversee timely and accurate financial reporting, including monthly management accounts, and annual financial statements in compliance with industry standards.
• Conduct comprehensive financial analyses to inform decision-making, identifying risks, opportunities, and trends in telecommunications.
• Present financial results and recommendations to the executive team and board, articulating financial performance and key metrics in an understandable format.
• Operational Financial Management
• Ensure robust financial management of day-to-day operations, including accounts payable and receivable, billing, payroll, and cash flow management.
• Drive operational efficiencies and implement improvements to streamline financial processes, reduce costs, and improve profitability.
• Maintain the control environment and sure policies, procedures and compliance are maximised
• Regulatory Compliance and Governance
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations and standards specific to the telecommunications industry, including IFRS, and other regulatory frameworks.
• Co-ordinate the annual financial planning process and work with external auditors to maintain transparency, accuracy, and accountability in financial reporting.
• Manage tax compliance, policies, and procedures.
• Team Leadership and Development
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing finance team, fostering a culture of accountability, excellence, and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product, technology, sales and operations, to align financial strategies with business objectives.
• Act as a finance partner and advisor to executives, providing insight and support for strategic business decisions.
• Stakeholders
• Act as the primary point of contact for financial matters with internal and external stakeholders.
• Engage with shareholders and other partners, ensuring transparent communication and alignment of financial expectations.

Skill Requirements and Personal Attributes

Education: 

• An Honours degree in Accounting with completed Audit Articles.
• CA (SA) certification is highly advantageous.

Experience: 

• 10+ years of experience in a senior finance role, preferably within the telecommunications or technology industry.

Skills: 

• Excellent financial modelling, analytical and budgeting abilities, with a solid understanding of telecommunications regulatory frameworks.
• Proficient in financial software and ERP systems, with a results-driven mindset and a relentless focus on achieving optimal outcomes.

Leadership:

• Demonstrated success in leading finance teams and partnering with executive management to drive strategic business decisions. A hands-on professional who thrives on actively engaging in the work and tackling challenges head-on.

Communication: 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex financial data to non-financial stakeholders.