Finance Operations Controller

Role Purpose

To build, enhance, and sustain a high-performing financial environment that supports both the Finance function and the broader business. This role will spearhead Unifi Zambia’s financial operations during a critical period of expansion, ensuring strategic alignment and operational excellence.
Success in this role demands a dynamic blend of financial rigour and entrepreneurial drive to elevate performance and enable long-term planning. The ideal candidate will be a proactive, hands-on leader capable of bridging financial strategy with business needs across Zambia and into new markets.

Responsibilities

• Drive financial performance by analyzing results, monitoring variances, identifying trends, and recommending corrective actions to management.
• Produce accurate and timely financial reports, while developing strategies aligned with the business’s long-term financial goals.
• Maintain and reconcile key balance sheet accounts, including oversight of the Fixed Assets Register and general ledger alignment.
• Lead cash flow planning and manage treasury operations to ensure financial stability and efficiency.
• Conduct in-depth financial analysis to support strategic decision-making and improve business outcomes.
• Design, implement, and manage financial projects that drive process improvement and operational excellence.
• Provide insight and advice on business strategies, acting as a key liaison between the finance function and operational teams.
• Own and manage the integrity of operational reconciliations and accounts impacted by day-to-day business activities.
• Identify and escalate financial risks, process inefficiencies, and areas for improvement within the finance function.
• Lead, manage, and develop the finance team to meet performance standards and support the organisation’s growth.
• Continuously improve, document, and maintain finance-related processes to enhance consistency and effectiveness.
• Oversee budgeting processes and ensure accurate, insightful financial reporting for internal and external stakeholders.
• Deliver financial support and training to build financial acumen across business units and enhance decision-making.

Requirements

• Chartered Accountant (CA) or equivalent professional accounting qualification is essential.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a similar finance role, ideally within a high-growth or dynamic business environment.
• Strong analytical and numerical skills with the ability to distil complex financial data into clear insights that inform strategic decision-making.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, identify challenges, and proactively develop effective, innovative solutions.
• Proven experience in negotiating terms and managing relationships with banks, suppliers, and other key stakeholders.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities with the confidence and adaptability to engage effectively at all levels of the organisation.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a collaborative mindset and the ability to foster productive internal and external partnerships.
• High attention to detail, strong organisational skills, and the ability to manage large volumes of information in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• Entrepreneurial energy, resilience, and a structured approach to finance suited to a dynamic, high-growth, pan-African business context.