Purpose of the Job:
Plan and direct accounting activities within the Eris client Portfolio Finance department, overseeing and managing the portfolio finance team.

Key Responsibilities:

General Financial Management:

• Provide strong leadership and mentorship to the portfolio financial team.
• Offer strategic input into finance department policies and processes.
• Oversee the full financial function of all property portfolios under management.
• Ensure financial management of property portfolio accounting for all regions, providing guidance where necessary.
• Implement head office controls and processes in regional offices.
• Oversee treasury and investment functions for relevant portfolios.
• Work closely with clients to address their needs and expectations, identifying areas for improvement.
• Coordinate internal and external audits, ensuring all necessary deliverables are provided.
• Prepare and submit group reporting requirements within deadlines.
• Prepare annual financial statements for client portfolios as required.
• Develop a thorough understanding of PIMS, Management reporting (Ex Frx), and Great Plains to assist staff.
• Review SMAC calculations monthly and ensure Eris portfolio information aligns with SMAC investment balances.
• Authorize MMI monthly movement files for JDE uploads.
• Reconcile JDE and Great Plains ledgers monthly.
• Maintain and reconcile general ledgers.
• Perform month-end and year-end procedures, meeting client requirements and deadlines.
• Review monthly management packs and balance sheet reconciliations.
• Authorize VAT submissions and adjustment accounts for sold properties.
• Ensure adherence to reporting requirements for portfolios under management.
• Coordinate accounting administration and net income flows of properties, ensuring timely payments to property owners.
• Manage new client take-ons and new property acquisitions for existing client portfolios.
• Ensure compliance with VAT and income tax for all portfolios.
• Understand taxation (income and deferred) to complete relevant tax calculations.
• Stay updated with reporting standards and newly effective standards.
• Review portfolio accountants’ provisional income statements.
• Oversee submission of all statutory returns.
• Ensure department performance aligns with management agreements and service level agreements.
• Manage staff recruitment and performance for the Portfolio Finance Team.
• Maintain good working relationships with Property Management and Asset Management divisions.
• Draft and implement policies related to financial systems and procedures.
• Ensure adherence to internal controls and consistent monthly reporting packs.
• Ensure supplier payments are made according to predefined terms.
• Evaluate financial reporting systems, accounting and collection procedures, and investment activities, recommending changes as needed.
• Work overtime when necessary due to high demands of the financial management position.

Skills and Competencies:

Reporting:

• Strong business communication skills.
• Ability to collect, analyze, and present information and statistical analyses.
• Ability to design and present informational programs and presentations.

Managing:

• Effectively manage the finance team, ensuring team members are upskilled and deadlines are met.

Computer Skills:

• Proficient in the full MS Office suite with advanced Excel skills.

Human Capital:

• Transparent honesty.
• Self-motivation and self-starting capabilities.
• Reliability and positive attitude.
• Assertive and effective communication.
• Creative approach and ability to work with limited resources.
• Ability to work under pressure and create a professional office environment.
• Organization and planning skills.
• Clear understanding of workplace diversity.
• Willingness to get hands dirty.

Qualifications and Experience:

Experience:

• Previous experience as a financial manager.
• Audit experience is an added advantage.
• Detailed understanding of IFRS and the Income Tax Act is mandatory.
• SAICA Articles + 5 years