Press Tab to Move to Skip to Content Link Select how often (in days) to receive an alert: Create Alert Location: Bellville, Western Cape, South Africa Who are we? Sanlam was established as a life insurance company in South Africa but has since transformed into a diversified financial services group that operates across the African continent, India, Malaysia and selected developed markets, with listings on the Johannesburg, A2X and Namibian stock exchanges. In 2018 the Group celebrated its centenary as well as 20 years since demutualisation and listing in South Africa and Namibia. Sanlam is one of the largest internationally active insurance groups in the world with a presence in 43 countries and has the biggest non-banking financial services footprint on the African continent. The Group's five business clusters (Sanlam Fintech, Sanlam Life and Savings, Sanlam Investment Group, Sanlam Allianz and Santam) house the Group's business operations. The Group Office provides strategic direction and support to the four clusters, assisting them in realising their strategies and meeting their business objectives. The Group Office is responsible for governance and for the Group's centralised functions, which include: Finance, Actuarial and Risk Management, Strategy, Human Resources, Market Development and Brand Sustainability. We’re all about building strong, lasting relationships with our employees. We know that you have hopes for your future – your career, your personal development and of achieving great things. We pride ourselves in helping our employees to realise their worth. Through its five business clusters – Sanlam Fintech, Sanlam Life and Savings, Sanlam Investment Group, Sanlam Allianz, Santam, as well as MiWay and the Group Office – the group provides many opportunities for growth and development. What will you do? The executive head of financial reporting holds a crucial role within an organisation, primarily overseeing the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of financial statements and related disclosures. This position, often occupied by the Controller or a similar executive, carries significant responsibilities and accountability including ensuring compliance with accounting standards and regulatory requirements, and providing accurate and timely financial information to stakeholders. This role involves strategic financial planning, leadership, and the development and implementation of robust internal controls. What will make you successful in this role? Here’s a detailed breakdown of the role, responsibilities, and accountability: Role: 1. Strategic Leadership: The executive head of financial reporting provides strategic direction and leadership in financial reporting, ensuring alignment with the organisation's overall strategy and goals. 2. Policy Development: Establishes and maintains accounting policies and procedures that ensure financial integrity and compliance with regulatory requirements. 3. Stakeholder Communication: Acts as a key liaison between the organisation and external stakeholders, including investors, analysts, regulators, and auditors. Responsibilities: Oversee the preparation of accurate and timely financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Ensure that financial reports comply with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) or International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Manage quarterly and annual reporting processes, including regulatory filings if applicable. 2. Compliance and Regulation: Ensure adherence to all relevant financial regulations and standards, and other regulatory requirements. Stay abreast of changes in financial regulations and implement necessary changes within the organisation. 3. Internal Controls: Develop and maintain robust internal control systems to prevent inaccuracies, fraud, and ensure the integrity of financial information. Conduct regular reviews and updates of internal controls to adapt to evolving risks and regulatory changes. 4. Financial Analysis and Reporting: Analyse financial data to provide insights into the organisation’s financial performance and inform decision-making. Prepare management reports and present financial results to the board of directors and senior management. 5. Audit Coordination: Coordinate with internal and external auditors to facilitate comprehensive and efficient audits. Address audit findings and implement recommendations to improve financial reporting and controls. Identify financial risks and develop strategies to mitigate them. Ensure the organisation’s financial stability through prudent financial planning and risk management practices. 7. Team Leadership and Development: Lead the financial reporting team, providing guidance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. Foster a culture of accountability, accuracy, and continuous improvement within the financial reporting function. 8. Stakeholder Communication: Act as a liaison between the organisation and external stakeholders, including investors, analysts, and regulators. Ensure transparency and accuracy in all financial communications and disclosures. Accountability: 1. Accuracy and Integrity: Personally accountable for the accuracy and integrity of the organisation’s financial statements and disclosures. Ensure that financial reporting is free from material misstatements, whether due to fraud or error. 2. Regulatory Compliance: Held accountable for ensuring that all financial reporting complies with applicable laws and regulations. Responsible for certifying the accuracy of financial reports in accordance with regulatory requirements (e.g., SOX certifications). 3. Ethical Standards: Uphold the highest ethical standards in financial reporting and decision-making. Ensure transparency and honesty in all financial communications and disclosures. 4. Performance Metrics: Accountable for key performance indicators (KPIs) related to financial reporting, such as the timeliness of reporting, audit outcomes, and compliance rates. Regularly review and report on performance metrics to the board of directors and senior management. 5. Stakeholder Trust: Maintain the trust of investors, regulators, and other stakeholders by delivering reliable and accurate financial information. Address any concerns or discrepancies promptly and transparently. In summary, the executive head of financial reporting plays a critical role in ensuring the financial health and regulatory compliance of an organisation. Their responsibilities span from strategic leadership and policy development to detailed financial analysis and risk management. They are held accountable for the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of financial reports, maintaining stakeholder trust and upholding high ethical standards. Qualification and Experience CA(SA). Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation preferred. Actuarial experience, Advanced degree (MBA or Master's in Finance) is advantageous. Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in accounting or financial reporting. Prior experience in a senior financial leadership role, preferably within a publicly traded company. Knowledge and Skills Technical Skills: Deep understanding of GAAP, IFRS, and other relevant accounting standards. Proficiency in financial reporting software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle). Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to interpret complex financial data and provide actionable insights. Leadership Skills: Proven leadership and team management experience. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate at all organisational levels. Regulatory Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of financial regulations, including SOX compliance and SEC reporting requirements. High ethical standards and integrity. Detail-oriented with strong organisational skills. Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines. Strategic mindset Balances stakeholders Business insight Core Competencies Cultivates innovation - Contributing strategically Customer focus - Contributing strategically Drives results - Contributing strategically Collaborates - Contributing strategically Being resilient - Contributing strategically Additional Information This role typically reports to the Chief Finance Officer (CFO) with interactions with Group Exco and Group Audit Committee. The position may require occasional travel for meetings with stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and auditors. The role involves working closely with other departments such as Actuarial, legal, operations, and human resources to ensure comprehensive financial governance. Turnaround time The shortlisting process will only start once the application due date has been reached. The time taken to complete this process will depend on how far you progress and the availability of managers. Our commitment to transformation The Sanlam Group is committed to achieving transformation and embraces diversity. This commitment is what drives us to achieve a diverse, inclusive and equitable workplace as we believe that these are key components to ensuring a thriving and sustainable business in South Africa. The Group's Employment Equity plan and targets will be considered as part of the selection process. #J-18808-Ljbffr