Financial Controller (Hybrid, Johannesburg)

About the role

We are partnering with a fast‑growing technology scale‑up in Johannesburg to hire a first‑time Financial Controller. This hands‑on position will own the day‑to‑day finance rhythm, ensuring accurate, timely reporting while supporting the company’s rapid growth. The role is hybrid, requiring 2‑3 days a week in the office.

Key responsibilities

• Own the full month‑end close, including P&L and balance‑sheet categorisation, accruals, deferrals and journal entries.
• Maintain and update the finance model with current numbers.
• Lead year‑end accounts in collaboration with external accountants.
• Manage the AR cycle: invoicing, debtor chasing, escalation thresholds.
• Review and approve AP, improving controls and approval flows.
• Run monthly payroll review, manage pension and PMI updates, and partner with People Ops on employee changes.
• Handle quarterly VAT submissions and support R&D tax claim cycles.
• Produce monthly management packs, quarterly board packs, and run finance reviews with the CCO and CEO.
• Maintain ERP data, cash‑flow forecasts, gross‑margin and contribution‑margin reporting.
• Develop finance automation using AI tools to reduce manual work.

Required profile

• 2‑4 years of finance experience with strong operational exposure (month‑end, AR, AP, payroll, reporting).
• Background in a high‑growth or scale‑up environment is a plus.
• Qualified accountant (CA(SA), CIMA, ACCA or equivalent).
• Proven ability to own a monthly close end‑to‑end and manage external accounting relationships.
• Comfortable communicating finance concepts to non‑finance stakeholders.
• Motivated to improve imperfect data through better definitions, processes and systems.

Required skills

• Advanced Excel and Google Sheets.
• Financial modelling – three‑statement models, scenario and sensitivity analysis.