Finance Manager – Future CFO (Umhlanga, Durban)

About the role

Our client is seeking an analytical, commercially‑focused Finance Manager who will own the finance function and play a strategic role in business growth. This position is designed as a stepping‑stone to a CFO role, requiring ambition, strong analytical ability and commercial acumen.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the full finance function, ensuring robust financial controls and accurate reporting.
• Prepare, analyse and present monthly management accounts and financial reports.
• Provide financial insights to support strategic business decisions.
• Analyse profitability, margins, costs, variances and overall performance.
• Drive budgeting, forecasting and long‑term financial planning.
• Develop and monitor KPIs and financial performance metrics.
• Identify opportunities to improve profitability, efficiency and cost management.
• Oversee cash flow, working capital and balance‑sheet management.
• Ensure compliance with statutory, tax and audit requirements.
• Improve financial systems, processes and internal controls.

Required profile

• BCom Accounting/Finance or equivalent qualification; professional qualifications such as CA(SA), CIMA or SAIPA are advantageous.
• 5–8 years of relevant finance experience with strong management‑accounting exposure.
• Proven experience in a Finance Manager or senior finance role.
• Strong analytical and commercial mindset with excellent communication and presentation abilities.
• Ambitious, career‑focused with the desire to progress into a CFO position.

Required skills

• Advanced Excel
• Financial modelling