Lead Manager Finance Operations at Sage

Job Description    

• As Lead Manager for Finance Operations for AME this role will represent Finance Operations on a day-to-day basis with key stakeholders at a regional level. This role will be involved in assessing new product and business initiatives for Operational Finance process impact and act as an advisor to business stakeholders. They will ensure that the requirements of R2R, P2P and O2C are reflected whilst ensuring that the customer and business drivers are considered in all decision making. This role will be key to ensuring that any relevant regulatory or statutory change in the region is coordinated across Finance Operations and with relevant stakeholders. The role will work closely with the EMEA Senior Finance Operations Director in these areas to ensure that EMEA strategy and initiatives are rolled out across the South Africa team. In this capacity they will be part of the EMEA Finance Operations Leadership Team. This role will be the on-site point of contact for several key policies and processes such as business continuity and logistical planning in line with overall EMEA Finance Operations Strategy. The role will be part of a matrix management team with the R2R elements aligned under the EMEA R2R Director.
• As R2R Manager this role will have responsibility for delivering the monthly management reporting schedules, statutory accounts and key statistical analysis for relevant entities within the EMEA Finance Operations structure. The successful candidate will be expected to work closely with key regional stakeholders and lead a team in delivering accurate and insightful data to help support key decision making and strategy development.
• This is a hybrid role 3 days per week from our office in Johannesburg.

Key Responsibilities    

Summary of Role

• This is a key role in the EMEA Finance Operations team with focus on the local markets as well as strong collaboration across the full region. It will manage the full R2R process and drive Finance Operations participation in key business, product and sales initiatives to ensure operational effectiveness, efficiency and correct accounting treatment. It’s about ensuring smooth operations, accurate and timely internal and statutory reporting, strong controls, as well as proactively supporting Sage strategy and relevant initiatives .

What I Will Be Doing

• You’ll take ownership of the end-to-end record-to-report (R2R) process, making sure the month-end close is accurate and on time, and offering insightful analysis on key trends. You’ll work closely with local Financial Controllers on budgeting, forecasting, and statutory accounts, ensuring compliance with local GAAP and internal controls. You'll also lead audits, manage balance sheet reviews, and help implement improvements that make our processes more effective. As a regional finance lead, you’ll support strategic decisions and initiatives and act as the go-to person for operational finance matters, while mentoring colleagues and building strong relationships across the business.

What We Are Looking For

• We need an experienced and qualified finance professional who’s confident managing complex R2R processes and statutory reporting. You should be comfortable working across regional teams, navigating local regulations, and engaging with senior stakeholders. Strong analytical skills, a focus on compliance, and a passion for process improvement are key. Experience leading audits, understanding local GAAP, and mentoring others will set you up for success.