A long?established, large?scale agricultural group is seeking to employ an experienced Financial and Operations Manager. This business is the leading producer in their sector and supplies to major national retailers and established wholesale market.

The ideal candidate must hold a professional finance designation, be a strong manager, a go-getter, who is able to function independently, as well as in a team, and will have the ability to implement systems and process improvements. There is a preference for a candidate who is operationally inclined, and experience or exposure within the agriculture, farming, processing, or production environment will be highly beneficial. Active participation in strategy and decision-making will be required.

There is definite growth within the group, evidenced by generic growth and recent acquisitions. The business is situated within an hour of Nelspruit.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Management and supervision of the finance team (accountants and administrative staff).
• Preparation and analysis of monthly and annual financial reports.
• Coordination of the annual budgeting process and monitoring of financial performance.
• Analysis of production reports and financial results per farm/production unit.
• Profitability analysis per farm, crop, or business unit.
• Implementation and monitoring of internal financial controls.
• Management of cash flow and financial planning.
• Evaluation of capital investments (CAPEX) and preparation of financial analyses for investment decisions.
• Financial modelling for expansion projects and potential acquisitions.
• Management of inventory and biological assets.
• Negotiation with suppliers and identification of cost?saving opportunities.
• Advising management regarding financial strategy and decision?
• Preparation and evaluation of business plans.
• Ad hoc duties as required.

Qualifications and Experience:

• CA(SA), PA(SA), AGA(SA) or CIMA designation is highly advantageous.
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance or similar.
• Completed SAICA, SAIPA, CIMA articles.
• Minimum 5 years’ relevant commercial experience.
• Agriculture, Farming or related experience preferred.
• Advanced Excel skills.
• Financial modelling skills and experience.
• System automation, integration and implementation experience an advantage.
• ERP Accounting systems experience a plus, particularly Navision or Business Central.

Key competencies:

• Ability to work under pressure.
• Communicate in a professional manner.
• High attention to detail.
• Ability to function independently.
• Innovative thinker.
• Organizational skills.
• Deadline driven.
• Ability to build credible relationships with internal and external clients.
• Ability to maintain discipline in the workplace.

Remuneration:

• R960,000 to R1,440,000,000 pa cost to company, depending on experience.
• Discretionary performance bonus.
• Possible housing options.