Operational Manager

To analyse credit applications and financial statements to assess creditworthiness and develop annual budgets and rolling financial forecasts, a financial services business in Stellenbosch, Western Cape is seeking an Operational Manager.

Training is practical and ongoing rather than a once-off exercise. A strong emphasis is placed on safety, quality, and doing things right the first time. You will report to an approachable manager who values feedback and initiative. If that sounds like you, we would be glad to receive your application.

The role carries deadline-driven reporting cycles, particularly around month-end and year-end.

• Mentor and develop finance team members, conducting performance reviews, identifying training needs, and fostering continuous improvement.
• Conduct comprehensive financial analysis and modelling to support business cases for capital investments, acquisitions, and new ventures.
• Oversee preparation and presentation of accurate monthly management accounts, financial statements, and board reports.
• Lead and manage the external audit process, preparing audit files, responding to queries, and ensuring timely sign-off of financial statements.
• Develop and implement financial policies, procedures, and internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure information integrity.
• Analyse credit applications and financial statements to assess creditworthiness and make recommendations on lending decisions.
• Develop annual budgets and rolling financial forecasts, monitoring performance and providing variance analysis with detailed commentary.

• A bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or economics with an honours degree or postgraduate qualification strongly preferred.
• Advanced proficiency in financial modelling and analysis using Microsoft Excel including building integrated three-statement models.
• Strong commercial awareness and business acumen to understand the broader context of financial decisions.
• A professional accounting or finance qualification such as CA(SA), CIMA, CFA, ACCA, or an equivalent recognised designation.
• In-depth knowledge of International Financial Reporting Standards, tax legislation, and the Companies Act in South Africa.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret complex financial data and present findings clearly.
• A minimum of five to seven years of progressive experience in financial management, investment analysis, or a related field.