SA Finance Controller (JHB)

at  AstraZeneca

Are you a seasoned financial professional with a passion for excellence and innovation? Do you thrive in dynamic environments and have a strong desire to contribute to a leading global biopharmaceutical company? If so, we invite you to join AstraZeneca as a Financial Controller. This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in managing our financial operations and driving strategic financial initiatives.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Professional certification such as CA(SA), CIMA, or similar.
• Extensive knowledge of South African tax laws and regulations.
• Strong understanding of audit processes and accounting principles.
• Proficiency in financial management systems and advanced MS Excel skills.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.
• Experience in a managerial or supervisory role.

WHAT YOU’LL DO?

As a Financial Controller at AstraZeneca, you will play a critical role in overseeing the financial operations of our organization. You will lead in managing the month-end and year-end closing processes. You will develop and implement financial policies and procedures to ensure effective internal controls. Support internal and external audits, ensuring timely and accurate information delivery. You will oversee and manage tax compliance of the entity, collaborate with cross-functional teams to support business initiatives and drive financial performance and provide leadership and mentorship to junior finance team members.

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY (NON-NEGOTIABLE REQUIREMENTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES)

The Financial Controller will be responsible for the overall controlling and compliance activities including audit, tax, month-end reporting and cash management. The role requires a high level of technical expertise, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively under pressure. Key duties include:

• Tax Management: Oversee and manage tax compliance, including preparation and filing of tax returns, ensuring adherence to South African tax laws and regulations.
• Audit Coordination: Coordinate and manage the audit process, including liaising with external auditors, preparing audit schedules, and ensuring timely completion of audit requirements.
• Month-End Closing Activities: Lead the month-end closing process, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting, including the preparation of financial statements.
• Reconciliations: Oversee and perform reconciliations of accounts, ensuring accuracy and integrity of financial data.
• Accounts Payable and Receivable Management: Supervise the accounts payable and receivable functions, including managing cash flow, credit control, and vendor/supplier relationships.
• Distributor Management: Oversee financial aspects related to distributor management, including financial analysis, performance evaluations, and financial support for distribution activities.
• Cashflow Management: Monitor and manage the company’s cash flow, ensuring adequate liquidity for operational needs and strategic initiatives.
• Financial Control Framework: Establish and maintain a robust financial control framework, including policies and procedures to ensure compliance with internal controls and regulatory requirements.
• Transfer Pricing: Manage and ensure compliance with transfer pricing regulations, including documentation, analysis, and implementation of transfer pricing policies.