Finance Lead

SUMMARY:
An exciting opportunity is available for an experienced Financial Manager within the pharmaceutical sector. This role is ideal for a high-calibre CA(SA) and ACMA CGMA professional who is commercially astute, operationally strong, and confident in managing end-to-end finance functions, including stock management and reporting in a fast-paced environment.

POSITION INFO:
Our client, a well-established and growing pharmaceutical business, is seeking a dynamic Financial Manager to join their team. This role requires an all-rounder finance professional who is equally comfortable in commercial finance, operational finance, and technical reporting.
The successful candidate will take ownership of the full finance function, providing strategic financial guidance while remaining hands-on in daily operations. A strong understanding of inventory and stock control is essential, as this business operates in a highly regulated and stock-driven environment where accuracy and compliance are critical.
This is an excellent opportunity for a finance leader who thrives in a high-performance culture, enjoys partnering with operational teams, and can drive efficiency, profitability, and strong financial governance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the full finance function, ensuring accurate reporting and strong financial governance.
• Oversee monthly management reporting, variance analysis, and financial performance reviews.
• Take full ownership of stock and inventory accounting, including stock reconciliations and valuation.
• Drive budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning to support business operations and commercial decision-making.
• Ensure accurate financial reporting in line with IFRS and statutory requirements.
• Partner with operational and commercial teams to provide insights and improve profitability.
• Maintain strong internal controls, compliance, and audit readiness within a regulated environment.
• Lead and manage the finance team, ensuring deadlines are met and standards are maintained.
• Support strategic initiatives, process improvements, and business growth projects.

Job Experience and Skills Required:

Education:

• CA(SA) (essential)
• ACMA CGMA (essential)

Experience:

• Proven experience in a Financial Manager role within the pharmaceutical, FMCG, manufacturing, or stock-intensive environment.
• Strong commercial and operational finance exposure.
• Extensive experience managing stock/inventory, including reconciliations, costing, and reporting.
• Proven track record in monthly reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and performance analysis.
• Experience working closely with operational stakeholders and senior management.

Skills:

• Strong technical accounting and financial reporting expertise.
• Excellent understanding of inventory accounting and stock controls.
• Advanced Excel skills and strong ERP system experience.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to influence business decisions.
• Ability to operate independently and take full ownership of the finance function.

Apply now!