Introduction:
SPAR is currently seeking a highly skilled and experienced National Finance Executive to join our team based in Pinetown, Durban. This critical role involves providing financial leadership and expertise to drive business performance, ensuring sound financial decision-making that aligns with SPAR’s strategic goals.

Job Description:
As the National Finance Executive, you will lead the finance function at both national and regional levels. Your role will be to provide strategic financial insights, support operational excellence, and ensure compliance with statutory regulations. You will collaborate with Build it teams, retailers, and senior management to optimize financial performance, develop growth strategies, and ensure alignment with SPAR’s financial objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide financial leadership to the Build it teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and financial business acumen across national and regional levels.
• Act as the link between financial insights and operational needs for both wholesale and retail operations.
• Support all Build it departments with financial modelling for group initiatives and projects.
• Oversee the preparation of budgets and forecasts, ensuring actual performance aligns with projections.
• Lead and develop the National Build it Finance team, focusing on staff growth and continuous improvement.
• Ensure the Build it financial strategic plan aligns with SPAR’s overall strategic objectives, and drive successful execution.
• Foster collaboration between wholesale and retail operations to ensure financial excellence and compliance.
• Ensure statutory compliance with SPAR group policies, legislation, and auditor requirements.
• Build strong relationships with Build it Retailers, suppliers, staff, and the Guild.
• Provide financial expertise and leadership to retailers through leadership programs like LDP and MIP.
• Analyze financial statements and take corrective action where necessary.
• Manage internal audit processes to ensure compliance and financial accuracy.
• Develop and grow the Build it brand by ensuring sustainable financial practices within retail stores and the network.
• Create national business financial growth strategies in collaboration with Build it departments and regional leaders.
• Implement Best Operating Procedures (BOP) in retail finance, standardizing processes across all regions.
• Drive retail operational support and improve service levels in line with national strategies.
• Manage the corporate financial identity of the Build it brand, ensuring financial standards are met at all stores.
• Support regional teams in assembling budgets that align with Build it’s strategic growth plans.
• Oversee national and regional cost centers, ensuring expenses are managed within budget.
• Ensure adherence to good corporate governance principles as outlined in SPAR policies and the Code of Ethics.

Minimum Requirements:

• National Senior Certificate (Matric) is essential.
• CA (SA) qualification is required.
• At least 5 years of experience in an Executive or Senior Management role within a finance portfolio (equivalent to Patterson EL/DU band).
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in the building and hardware retail industry, with a strong customer care focus.
• Excellent financial and business acumen.
• Strong knowledge of General Accepted Accounting Practice (GAAP) and financial modelling.
• In-depth understanding of financial regulations, accounting processes, and VAT legislation.
• Proven analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with forecasting, budgeting, and management reporting.
• Proficiency in SAP Finance Module and relevant tax/accounting knowledge.
• Ability to think strategically and stay aware of market trends.
• Track record of meeting operational objectives and customer expectations.
• High energy, collaborative attitude, and attention to detail.
• Strong communication, relationship-building, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Personal values of honesty, integrity, and reliability.
• Emotional maturity and resilience.
• High level of computer literacy.
• Public speaking and presentation skills.
• Valid driver’s license.