Darren Moodley
Finance & Strategy
Westville,KZN
Summary
I am a highly accomplished finance and operations manager with over 14 years of extensive experience in key strategic roles across diverse industries such as retail, wholesale, corporate, and manufacturing. My track record includes significant contributions to the development of new policies and processes in both newly established and existing departments. Notably, I have a strong background in Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A). In my career, I have successfully created and nurtured high-performance teams, demonstrating a proficiency in fostering growth and ensuring the development of large teams. My expertise extends to implementing cost-saving plans, meticulously understanding the value chain, and identifying and rectifying cost leakages. This has resulted in the realization of planned savings and operational efficiencies. With a wealth of experience working with both local and international companies, I have honed my skills in operations, finance, marketing, HR, and logistics, with a specific focus on FP&A. My in-depth financial knowledge, combined with a strategic business outlook, positions me as a valuable asset to any organization. I am eager to contribute my skills and expertise in FP&A to enhance the success of your business in the realm of finance and operations.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
22
22
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certificate
Work History
COMMERCIAL ACCOUNTANT
Boxer Superstores (Subsidiary of Pick n Pay)
Durban, South Africa
2 2023 - Current
- Results-oriented commercial accountant specializing in the commercial aspects of the Buying Department
- Proven expertise in financial planning, cost analysis, and strategic decision support
- Adept at translating financial data into actionable insights to drive purchasing efficiency, optimize costs, and contribute to overall departmental profitability
- Implemented robust financial controls resulting in an improvement in P&L accuracy for the Buying Department
- Developed and delivered a new KPI model for buying teams, with a key focus on GP preservation and GP Management
- Collaborated with buying HODs to aid in the achievement of growth hurdles
- Developed and monitored annual and monthly Sales & Gross Profit budgets
- Conducted thorough rebate analysis on vendor agreements, resulting in the identification of rebate opportunities and improved negotiation strategies
- Led the integration of financial metrics into the buying decision-making process
- Provided monthly financial reporting mechanisms and analyzed commercial financial data to aid in decision making.
- Developed customized financial reports for key stakeholders, providing insightful information for decision-making purposes.
- Implemented cost-saving initiatives through thorough analysis of expense reports, identifying areas for improvement and recommending solutions.
- Collaborated with internal departments to develop accurate forecasts for revenue growth and expense control.
- Provided valuable input during contract negotiations by utilizing comprehensive understanding of industry benchmarks and best practices when evaluating terms offered by suppliers or customers.
- Trained junior staff members on company-specific accounting procedures, fostering overall team growth in knowledge and capabilities.
- Conducted detailed financial analysis on potential business opportunities, guiding management towards informed decisions.
- Analyzed financial data to identify trends, leading to improved decision-making and strategic planning.
- Successfully resolved complex account discrepancies through diligent research and effective communication with clients and colleagues alike.
FINANCE AND OPERATIONS EXEC
Makro (Cornubia)
Durban, South Africa
04.2019 - 01.2023
- Direct oversight of finance, receiving, inventory control, IT, front end and cash office, and workforce management departments
- Managed financial transactions, expense budget, and trade debtor customers
- Developed annual operating budget and long-term strategic plans
- Collaborated with various departments for budgeting and forecasting processes
- Analyzed financial data and trends, conducted variance analysis, and prepared ad-hoc financial analyses
- Identified opportunities for cost optimization and revenue enhancement
- Prepared monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports
- Developed dashboards and KPIs to track key business metrics
- Provided financial guidance and support to business partners
- Streamlined processes and improved financial planning and analysis activities
- Ensured compliance with finance policies and procedures
- Facilitated good corporate governance and managed temporary staff costs
- Oversaw policies and processes within the business and ensured compliance.
- Developed comprehensive financial reports to support data-driven decision-making for senior leadership.
- Achieved timely financial reporting through proactive management of deadlines and priorities.
- Evaluated and improved financial records to make important business decisions.
- Collaborated with other departments to develop integrated financial strategies that supported company objectives.
- Safeguarded company assets through vigilant internal controls implementation and risk mitigation efforts.
- Ensured regulatory compliance by staying updated on industry laws, regulations, and best practices.
- Managed a team of finance professionals, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations for consistent growth in skills and productivity.
- Improved the accuracy of financial projections through detailed variance analysis and adjustments.
- Identified areas for process improvement resulting in cost savings by conducting periodic audits of departmental operations.
- Maximized profitability with thorough cost analysis and strategic expense management.
- Reviewed business operations and obligations to help organization function at acceptable level.
- Met accounting financial standards by providing accounting department annual budget information.
- Disciplined and motivated accounting team to maximize performance.
- Leveraged finance knowledge to strengthen controls and improve transparency.
- Analyzed business processes to identify cost savings and operational efficiencies.
- Created financial dashboards to provide insights into key performance indicators.
- Designed and maintained financial models to identify and measure risks.
- Improved overall financial reporting by streamlining control processes and reporting structures.
- Reviewed historical records, current operational data and forecasting information to identify and capitalize on system enhancement opportunities.
HEAD OF MARKETING, COSTING, PRICING AND PROCUREMENT, OPERATIONS
Cape Nut Traders
05.2018 - 03.2019
- Led a team of marketing professionals for successful product launches and promotions.
- Implemented data-driven decision-making processes to guide innovative marketing strategies.
- Improved lead generation efforts by implementing targeted inbound marketing strategies that attracted high-quality prospects.
- Drove business growth by forging strategic alliances with complementary organizations to expand reach into new markets.
- Mentored junior staff members, providing guidance in professional development and fostering a collaborative team environment within the department.
- Analyzed competitive landscape, identifying potential threats and opportunities for strategic positioning in the marketplace.
- Established strong relationships with key industry influencers to elevate brand reputation.
- Streamlined internal processes, resulting in improved productivity and cost savings for the department.
- Conducted comprehensive market research to identify emerging trends and capitalize on new opportunities.
- Championed cross-functional collaboration, working closely with product development and public relations teams to create cohesive messaging.
- Developed an effective marketing budget, ensuring optimal allocation of resources for maximum return on investment.
- Managed workflow between staff, coordinating documents and creative material distribution.
- Analyzed consumer usage patterns to identify trends and target key demographics.
- Identified value propositions and key messages for company marketing campaigns.
- Developed market strategies to adapt to changing conditions and reduce aging stock.
- Designed and implemented logistics and stock rotation systems.
- Conducted commodity market analysis and currency hedging to maintain profitability.
- Managed costing for finished goods and raw materials.
- Streamlined procurement processes to optimize inventory and reduce shrinkage.
- Oversaw supplier contracts and designed food safety systems.
- Onboarded new customers efficiently by developing database listings, uploading information, and defining related lists.
Finance Manager
Nexus Distributors CC
South Africa, Singapore, Vietnam
05.2011 - 04.2018
- Enhanced company profitability by identifying cost-saving opportunities and implementing process improvements.
- Developed strategic financial plans for long-term organizational growth and sustainability.
- Managed financial risk through comprehensive analysis of market trends, industry data, and internal performance metrics.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimize resource allocation and ensure alignment with financial objectives.
- Optimized cash flow by implementing efficient receivables management strategies and closely monitoring working capital levels.
- Conducted in-depth financial analyses to support decision-making processes across multiple departments.
- Conducted regular reviews of internal controls and risk management strategies to maintain a strong financial infrastructure.
- Coordinated annual budgeting processes, aligning departmental expectations with overarching financial goals.
- Provided expert guidance on investment decisions, contributing to the company''s overall financial success.
- Implemented robust internal controls to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements and minimize exposure to potential fraud or mismanagement risks.
- Streamlined financial reporting processes for increased accuracy, timeliness, and ease of comprehension.
- Designed custom financial models tailored to specific project needs, enabling accurate projections and informed decision-making processes within the organization.
- Mentored junior team members in best practices for financial management, fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the department.
- Led negotiation efforts with vendors and suppliers to secure favorable pricing terms while maintaining strong relationships.
- Improved business finance processes by implementing effective budgeting and forecasting techniques.
- Prepared monthly reconciliation of bank accounts and took corrective actions on deviations.
- Trained new and existing staff members in various financial procedures to prepare for job requirements.
- Processed invoices and contacted appropriate parties for timely payment receipt.
- Reviewed documentation and identified financial discrepancies where applicable.
- Executed vendor setup and payment, administration of bank accounts and account reconciliations.
- Monitored budget and revenue trends, compiling reports for company leadership to inform decision-making.
- Created organizational structures to improve accounting and finance functions.
- Researched and facilitated software integration to streamline accounting and financial processes.
- Drove revenue stream development through strategic collaboration and partnerships.
- Drove profit increases through market research and strategic asset management to meet dynamic industry conditions.
- Prepared internal and regulatory financial reports, balance sheets and income statements.
- Analyzed business processes to identify cost savings and operational efficiencies.
- Performed banking, business administration and financial tasks to guarantee five-star service for clients.
- Managed finance departments and implemented systems to reduce business risks.
- Conducted month-end reviews, cash flow planning, and statutory calculations.
- Designed business plans and strategies to achieve growth objectives.
- Maintained stakeholder relationships and ensured compliance with statutory requirements.
- Conducted detailed financial modeling for new ventures.
- Supervised the preparation of financial statements and managed tax planning.
- Handled local and international financial transactions and approvals.
Group Accountant
Strategic Financial Management
Durban, South Africa
03.2010 - 04.2011
- Managed accounting functions for hotel and property companies.
- Processed cash books, petty cash, debtors, creditors, and various journals.
- Prepared monthly management reports and performed financial analyses.
- Conducted market research on investment opportunities.
- Calculated business sale prices and feasibility for potential investments.
Bookkeeper
Harrell Davidson Incorporated
Durban, South Africa
01.2009 - 02.2010
- Posted daily receipts and payments in accordance with corporate protocols.
- Communicated proactively with team members regarding any issues or concerns related to bookkeeping tasks.
- Prepared monthly bank reconciliations to ensure accurate representation of company''s financial position.
- Reconciled and corrected issues with financial records.
- Handled bookkeeping for diverse client portfolios.
- Processed cash books, salaries, and various financial documents.
- Conducted VAT calculations and prepared management reports.
- Managed payroll processing and reconciled general ledger accounts.
- Performed financial statement analysis and graphical reporting.
Bookkeeper & Lecturer
Various Companies
Durban, South Africa
01.2005 - 01.2009
- Managed full bookkeeping functions and intercompany loan accounts.
- Provided IT support and maintained accurate financial records.
- Generated operational productivity reports.
- Ensured timely payment processing and resolved debtor issues
- Conducted lectures in Accounting, Business Management, Marketing Management, and Pastel Accounting.
- Prepared surveys, coordinated staff development events, and compiled budgets.
- Addressed HR issues and assessed staff performance.
- Managed budget planning and financial reporting for academic departments.
Education
Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) - Finance
CIMA
London, UK11.2024
Master of Business Administration - Business Administration
Management College of South Africa
Durban, South Africa 04.2001 - 04.2023
Post Grad Dip Business Management (NQF 8) - Business Management
Management College of South Africa
Durban, South Africa12.2018
Skills
Financial Planning Analysis and Reporting
Budgeting and Forecast
GP Management
Process Optimization
Strategic Partnerships
Operational Excellence
Financial Modelling
Strategic Planning
Accounting Packages (SAP, Pastel)
Management accounting
Variance Analysis
Expense Management
General Ledger Management
Month-end close
Foreign Currency Accounting
Account reconciliation processes
Personal Information
- Dependents: 3
- Date of Birth: 11/02/83
Certification
CGMA - Chartered Global Management Accountant
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Timeline
FINANCE AND OPERATIONS EXEC
Makro (Cornubia)
04.2019 - 01.2023
HEAD OF MARKETING, COSTING, PRICING AND PROCUREMENT, OPERATIONS
Cape Nut Traders
05.2018 - 03.2019
Finance Manager
Nexus Distributors CC
05.2011 - 04.2018
Group Accountant
Strategic Financial Management
03.2010 - 04.2011
Bookkeeper
Harrell Davidson Incorporated
01.2009 - 02.2010
Bookkeeper & Lecturer
Various Companies
01.2005 - 01.2009
Master of Business Administration - Business Administration
Management College of South Africa
04.2001 - 04.2023
COMMERCIAL ACCOUNTANT
Boxer Superstores (Subsidiary of Pick n Pay)
2 2023 - Current
Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) - Finance
CIMA
Post Grad Dip Business Management (NQF 8) - Business Management
Management College of South Africa