Divisional Financial Manager – Retail

SUMMARY:
Divisional Financial Manager – Retail/QSR - KZN

POSITION INFO:
About the Role Our reputable client within the Retail / Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industry is urgently seeking a highly experienced and strategically driven Divisional Financial Manager - Retail to join their Finance team at their Head Office in Newlands East, Durban. The successful candidate will serve as the Second-in-Command (2IC) to the Divisional Finance Executive, providing strategic financial leadership, operational financial oversight, and management of the divisional finance function. This senior leadership role requires a hands-on financial professional with strong commercial acumen, exceptional analytical capabilities, and proven experience leading finance teams across multiple financial sub-functions. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving financial performance, ensuring compliance, strengthening internal controls, and supporting the division's overall profitability and strategic objectives. Minimum Requirements - Non-Negotiable Bachelor's degree in finance, Accounting or Commerce (Essential). Minimum 2 years' experience in a similar senior or divisional financial management role (Essential). Proven experience managing a team of finance professionals across multiple financial sub-functions (Essential). Strong financial management, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting experience. Comprehensive knowledge of financial management principles, management accounting and IFRS reporting standards. Strong understanding of financial controls, risk management, and statutory compliance. Excellent leadership, analytical and stakeholder management skills. Qualifications & Additional Experience Ideally 7-10 years' progressive financial management experience. Postgraduate qualification (Honours / CTA) or professional designation such as CA(SA), CIMA or ACCA advantageous. Previous experience within the Retail, QSR, FMCG or Franchise industry advantageous. Proficiency in Sage Evolution / Sage 200, GAAP POS / Micros and advanced Microsoft Excel. Experience with ERP systems and Business Intelligence (BI) reporting tools advantageous. Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the division as required. Key Responsibilities Financial Management & Strategic Leadership Provide strategic financial leadership and oversight across the Retail division. Act as the 2IC to the Divisional Finance Executive, supporting financial strategy and operational decision-making. Oversee all divisional financial management, reporting, and control functions. Partner with divisional operational leadership to improve profitability and overall business performance. Provide financial insights, recommendations, and commercial support to executive management. Financial Reporting & Management Accounts Oversee the preparation and submission of accurate monthly management accounts. Ensure timely financial reporting to the Divisional Finance Executive. Analyze financial performance, identify trends and highlight financial risks. Monitor divisional gross profit, EBITDA and net profitability. Ensure financial reporting complies with IFRS and internal reporting requirements. Budgeting, Forecasting & Financial Planning Develop and manage divisional budgets, forecasts, and financial plans. Conduct detailed budget-versus-actual variance analysis. Provide financial modelling and scenario analysis to support strategic decisions. Identify cost-saving opportunities and opportunities to improve operational efficiency. Monitor divisional financial performance against agreed targets. Financial Controls, Compliance & Audit Implement and maintain effective financial controls, policies, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Ensure compliance with relevant financial legislation, tax, VAT and statutory requirements. Coordinate and oversee internal and external audit processes. Identify financial risks and implement appropriate mitigation strategies. Maintain strong financial governance and ensure audit readiness. Cash Flow & Working Capital Management Oversee divisional cash flow management and forecasting. Monitor working capital requirements and optimize cash flow. Manage divisional treasury-related functions. Ensure effective management of financial resources and liquidity. Finance Team Leadership & Development Lead, mentor, and manage a team of finance professionals across multiple sub-functions. Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable and financial reporting teams. Set clear performance objectives and ensure accountability. Drive team development, coaching, and succession planning. Promote a high-performance, collaborative, and results-driven finance environment. Key Performance Areas (KPAs) Accurate and timely submission of monthly management accounts and financial reports. Effective budget management and variance reporting. Achievement of divisional EBITDA, gross profit, and net profitability targets. Clean internal and external audit outcomes with no repeat findings. Compliance with financial controls, SOPs and statutory obligations. Effective cash flow and working capital management. Strong finance team performance, engagement, and retention. Key Competencies Strategic financial leadership and commercial acumen. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Strong people management and team development capabilities. Exceptional attention to detail and financial accuracy. Excellent communication and executive presentation skills. High levels of integrity, confidentiality, and financial governance. Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet strict deadlines. Strong collaboration and stakeholder engagement skills. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Financial Manager seeking to take on a senior divisional leadership role within a fast-paced, growing Retail / QSR environment.