Financial Planning and Analysis Manager

A fast-growing, highly entrepreneurial group operating across property investment, portfolio assets, and professional training is looking for a commercially minded, analytical FP&A Manager to join their expanding global finance function. Operating fully remotely from South Africa on a full-time, permanent basis, this position balances high operational accountability with a deeply supportive, progressive team culture. The core working hours align directly with UK business hours, running Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 16:30 UK time (with an early start preferred for a self-starter who likes to hit the ground running). In South African local time, depending on daylight saving and seasonal clock shifts, this translates to an attractive daytime shift pattern of 09:30 AM – 17:30 PM / 10:30 AM – 18:30 PM SAST. Known for fostering exceptional cross-border team integration, the group is modernising its management reporting and strategic finance operations. In this role, you will take end-to-end ownership of group budgeting, rolling cash forecasts, and monthly management accounts across multiple active entities. Key Responsibilities Management Accounts Ownership: Lead the complete month-end close across multiple operating entities, producing comprehensive Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow statements. Close Acceleration: Drive process improvements to streamline the reporting timetable, accelerating the monthly close down to working day 5. Commercial Storytelling & Variance Analysis: Unpick large volumes of complex data and deliver clear, plain-language variance commentary to operational heads and senior leadership. Rolling Forecasts & Budgets: Build, maintain, and refine rolling cash flow models and group budgets, tracking actual performance against business plans and highlighting risks early. Accounting Controls & Accruals: Oversee balance sheet reconciliations, embed accrual accounting discipline across business units, and support statutory compliance schedules. Systems, Automation & AI: Continuously enhance financial models and reporting packs through advanced spreadsheet automation, multiple financial systems, and modern AI tools. Team Mentorship & Operational Support: Provide hands-on guidance, training, and development to two UK-based Accounts Assistants and an incoming Credit Controller, providing operational cover when required. Requirements Professional Accreditation (Essential): Fully qualified accountant (CIMA, ACCA, CA(SA) / ACA). Experience: Minimum 3–5+ years in FP&A, management accounting, or senior financial analysis, with demonstrated ownership of multi-entity reporting and variance analysis. Software & Systems: Advanced Excel skills (ability to unpick large datasets and build complex models) and hands-on proficiency in Xero are essential. Experience with Syft Analytics or BI reporting tools is a strong advantage. Curiosity & Communication: Exceptional communication and presentation skills—confident in presenting financial insights to non-financial stakeholders and partnering with division heads. Work Style: High autonomy and ownership; a self-starter who thrives working independently across multiple systems. Industry Background (Advantageous): Prior experience in property, lettings, or asset management is a plus, but applications from other fast-paced commercial industries are warmly welcomed. Workspace Setup: A dedicated home office environment equipped with high-speed fibre internet and reliable backup power solutions (UPS / inverter) to guarantee uninterrupted operational availability. Benefits Long-term stability within an international, full-time permanent remote role. A collaborative, supportive leadership team with structured onboarding, peer support, and ongoing professional development. A visible seat at the table where your commercial insights directly shape executive decisions and group growth.