Senior Finance Manager

A dynamic, rapidly-growing, entrepreneurial business operating across the automotive, vehicle rental, and insurance sectors is seeking a commercial Finance and Operations Director as it enters its next phase of growth. Thic candidate will strengthen the finance function, improve operational scalability, and partner with the leadership team in driving continued expansion.

The role is suited to a commercially minded finance leader who thrives in a dynamic, hands-on environment. The successful candidate will work closely with the CEO and executive team to professionalise processes, strengthen governance, improve reporting, and ensure the business is operationally ready to scale.

The role will play a critical part in transitioning the business from an entrepreneurial structure into a more mature, scalable organisation while maintaining the agility and energy that has driven its success.OBJECTIVES AND GOALSProvide strategic financial leadership.

Build a scalable finance function capable of supporting future business growth.

Improve financial reporting, controls, processes, and operational visibility.

Drive operational efficiencies across finance and broader business functions.

Implement systems and processes to support improved decision-making.

Strengthen budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and profitability analysis.

Identify operational gaps and implement solutions that improve business performance.

Support the leadership team in evaluating growth opportunities and strategic initiatives.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Including but not limited to:a) Financial Leadership & Strategy
• Lead the overall finance function across the group’s four business divisions.
• Provide commercial insights and financial guidance to support strategic decision-making.
• Partner with the CEO and directors to drive business growth and improve profitability.
• Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Provide accurate and timely management reporting to support executive decision-making.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cash flow planning, and financial analysis.b) Finance Transformation & Operational Improvement
• Assess current finance processes and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Implement stronger financial controls, policies, and procedures.
• Improve systems, reporting structures, and data accuracy.
• Drive automation and efficiencies across finance operations.
• Ensure finance processes support the organisation’s growth ambitions.
• Work closely with operational teams to identify and resolve business challenges.c) Leadership & Team Development
• Lead, mentor, and develop the finance team.
• Establish a high-performance culture focused on accountability and continuous improvement.
• Build a finance function that provides meaningful commercial support to the business.
• Develop strong relationships across all divisions and stakeholders.d) Governance & Compliance
• Ensure strong financial governance and compliance across the organisation.
• Oversee statutory reporting, audits, and regulatory requirements.
• Strengthen risk management processes.
• Ensure appropriate controls are embedded as the business continues to grow.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Qualified Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) or equivalent professional qualification preferred.
• Relevant degree in Finance, Accounting, or Commerce.
• Proven experience in a senior finance leadership role such as Financial Director, CFO, or Head of Finance.EXPERIENCEMinimum 10 years’ progressive finance experience, with significant leadership exposure.
• Experience within entrepreneurial, owner-managed, or high-growth environments advantageous.
• Strong commercial finance background with exposure to operational businesses.
• Experience implementing systems, improving processes, and building finance functions.
• Experience supporting business growth, acquisitions, or strategic initiatives advantageous.
• Experience within automotive, rental, insurance, logistics, or related industries beneficial but not essential.COMPETENCIES AND SKILLS NEEDEDStrong commercial acumen with the ability to think strategically and operate hands-on.
• Excellent leadership and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to build trust and influence business owners and executives.
• Strong problem-solving ability with a practical, solutions-focused approach.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
• Strong financial analysis and reporting capability.
• Ability to translate financial information into actionable business insights.
• High level of integrity, ownership, and accountability.ABOUT

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate is a finance leader who enjoys building and improving businesses rather than maintaining established structures. They will be comfortable operating at both strategic and operational levels, working closely with the CEO and leadership team to create the systems, processes, and discipline required for the next stage of growth.

This is an opportunity for someone who wants meaningful influence, enjoys working in a dynamic environment, and is motivated by seeing the direct impact of their contribution on business success.

Salary range

• R1.5M - R1.8M cost to company per annum