Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Biographicalinformation
Systemsproficiency
Educationandqualifications - Professionalqualifications
Timeline
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Neelofar Moosa

Neelofar Moosa

Head Of Finance
South Africa

Summary

As a seasoned Head of Finance with 7 years post-articles, I bring a wealth of experience in financial management, strategic planning and team leadership. With a proven track record of driving financial performance and implementing cost-saving initiatives. I excel in analyzing data to provide actionable insights for decision making. My expertise includes budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting and compliance which has enabled me to streamline processes and enhancing overall efficiency. I am dedicated to driving growth and profitability while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, I pride myself by being well-organized, proactive and very adaptable to any market.

Overview

10
10
years of professional experience

Work History

Head of Finance

Bridgestone South Africa
09.2022 - Current
  • Provide operational direction for Finance Shared Services department and oversee the full financial operational services for the business (AR,AP, Insurance, Fleet,Travel, Treasury,JSOX,Reporting)
  • Provided senior management with strategic financial insights for informed decision making
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align financial goals.(Sales, Otraco, Retail, LSCM, IT, Inventory planning and various Europe and Japan counterparts)
  • Strengthened communication between finance department and other business units, fostering an environment of collaboration across the organization
  • Oversaw annual audit process with KPMG and Deloitte, ensuring accurate representation of financial position in accordance with IFRS
  • Reduced overhead costs by identifying inefficiencies and implementing cost-saving measures
  • Developed finance team talent through targeted training programs and regular performance evaluations
  • Ensured compliance with all regulatory requirements by staying abreast of industry changes and updating policies accordingly
  • Negotiated contracts with suppliers for more favorable terms, resulting in significant cost savings
  • Managed debt financing activities, negotiating favorable terms to minimize borrowing costs with main bankers bring Citibank
  • Enhanced financial reporting accuracy through the development of comprehensive internal controls
  • Drove revenue growth by identifying key performance indicators and optimizing pricing strategies
  • Optimized cash flow management through efficient working capital strategies and investment decisions
  • Implemented a robust budget variance analysis process to identify discrepancies early on and improve future planning initiatives
  • Implemented risk management practices to mitigate potential losses and safeguard company assets
  • Spearheaded merger and acquisition activities, successfully integrating acquired companies into existing financial structures.
  • Monitored budget and revenue trends, compiling reports for company leadership to inform decision-making
  • Generated financial and operational reports to assist management with business strategy
  • Set clear departmental objectives and developed effective strategies to achieve targeted goals
  • Partnered with IT and operational leadership to develop financial business plans with detailed benchmarks
  • Analyzed financial statements against forecasts to prepare high-level variance analysis
  • Assisted with recruiting, interviewing, and hiring new department employees
  • Established and enforced controls on revenue and expenses to protect company assets
  • Identified partnership opportunities and established favorable business connections
  • Established internal audit procedures to validate and improve accuracy of financial reporting
  • Prepared cash flow projections, cost analysis and monthly, quarterly and annual reports
  • Prepared internal and regulatory financial reports, balance sheets and income statements
  • Developed strategic plans for day-to-day financial operations
  • Collaborated with C-level executives and stakeholders to develop long-term financial plans
  • Reviewed historical records, current operational data and forecasting information to identify and capitalize on system enhancement opportunities
  • Complied with established internal controls and policies (JSOX)
  • Supported financial director with special projects and additional job duties

Senior Financial Accountant / Manager - Contract Role

Bridgestone SA
05.2022 - 08.2022
  • Managed the month end process to ensure reporting deadlines are met (Management of debtors, creditors, intercompany and business entries)
  • Processed and reviewed monthly journals and accruals
  • Reviewed cost centers to ensure integrity of reported data
  • Maintained integrity of general ledger and chart of accounts
  • Monthly submission of data and management of data and reporting thereof
  • Compiled budget figures by reviewing past budgets, evaluating estimated income, and assessing expenses
  • Improved financial reporting accuracy by streamlining the month-end closing process and implementing new accounting procedures
  • The responsibilities covered the management of all shared service financial activities for all divisions and entities in SA
  • Performed financial control activities to ensure data integrity
  • Conducted thorough variance analyses between actual results and budget forecasts to identify areas requiring corrective action or strategic adjustment
  • Submitted monthly, quarterly, and ad hoc reports and analysis
  • Monthly and annual corporate and statutory reporting
  • Management of internal and external financial audits
  • Generated financial statements for external audits
  • Reduced errors in financial statements by thoroughly reviewing and reconciling general ledger accounts on a monthly basis
  • Managed cash flow effectively through diligent monitoring of receivables, payables, and bank reconciliations
  • Managed fixed asset accounting by maintaining a detailed asset register and ensuring timely depreciation calculations
  • Reviewed of bank mandates and authorities
  • Working closely with Citibank and Europe teams on projects impacting treasury space
  • Profitability analysis performed
  • Maintained compliance local tax regulations by accurately filing all required returns on time (VAT and Tax)
  • Assisted the Head of shared services, CFO and Business Leadership in the preparation of reports and ad-hoc tasks
  • Supported management decision-making with relevant financial data analysis, preparing detailed reports for review
  • Mitigated impacts on financial accounting and business operations by working proactively to identify and resolve strategic concerns
  • Assisted with providing finance induction training for new employees
  • Ensured timeous submission of all statutory requirements including Vat, Statistical returns, and annual financial statements
  • Provided guidance to junior accountant, fostering professional development through continuous feedback and training opportunities
  • Established team priorities, maintained schedules and monitored performance
  • Evaluated employee performance and conveyed constructive feedback to improve skills
  • Established performance goals for employees and provided feedback on methods for reaching those milestone
  • Facilitated smooth acquisition processes, including due diligence tasks and financial integration of acquired company (Otraco)
  • Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframe
  • Developed a strong company culture focused on employee engagement, collaboration, and continuous learning opportunities
  • Streamlined workflows by identifying bottlenecks in existing systems and proactively addressing these challenges through appropriate solutions implementation
  • Increased efficiency of the accounting department by automating manual tasks, saving time, and reducing human error

MCSA Finance Manager - Reporting to the CFO

Multichoice
03.2021 - 03.2022
  • Performed month-end reporting within tight deadlines
  • This included preparing and reviewing of the Flash, Exco presentation, Cash flow forecast and month end presentation
  • Performed budget and forecast reporting, for MCSA within deadlines
  • Tracked financial results against budget and reforecast, assess & report on variances
  • Produced commentary to explain variances to above scenarios
  • Compiled presentations to explain financial results used by Group CEO and other stakeholders
  • Management of 24 month rolling forecast
  • Management and mentoring of the team responsible for preparation of monthly rolling forecasts
  • Consolidated the 24 month rolling forecasts from the team
  • Reviewed of rolling forecasts and variance analysis monthly
  • Management of Treasury and cash flow forecasting
  • Reviewed monthly cash flow forecasts and assessment of variances and trends
  • Consolidated the treasury and cash flow forecasts from the team
  • Loaded Cash flow on BPC/SAP
  • Developed and implemented improved internal processes for preparation of monthly cash flow forecasts
  • Disaggregation and evaluation of the drivers of variances in cash flow forecasts and driving improvement in accuracy of cash flow forecasting
  • This was applicable divisionally and in aggregate
  • Tracking of cash flow on an ongoing basis to enable determination of projections and current position in real time
  • Performed strategic and ad hoc analysis as determined by the Head of Finance and CFO, including scenario building and implications of strategic alternatives that would impact the bottom line
  • Involved in operations of the SA business and full support provided to CFO and CEO
  • Active participant in MCSA group reporting & FP&A technology enhancements/implementations
  • Reported on solvency and liquidity positions for legal entities within Multichoice SA
  • Prepared Insurance schedule for legal entities within Multichoice SA
  • Prepared and reviewed Stats SA for legal entities within Multichoice SA
  • Performed analysis of any queries from Group, MCSA CEO and PwC auditors as deemed necessary
  • Project Management
  • Accountability and management of strategic finance projects as determined by the Head of Finance, including optimization of internal finance processes to achieve efficient, effective processes and internal control
  • Developed financial models to assess the outcome of financial alternatives
  • Ad hoc projects that arose on a continuing basis
  • Conducted business studies on past, future and comparative performance and developed forecast models
  • Support Finance and General Accounting operations and External Reporting
  • Responsible for External Reporting and Statutory Financials including review of the financials
  • Responsible for support of BBBEE for legal entities
  • Responsible for preparing information that will be sent to the Regulators
  • Responsible for the approval of purchase requisitions per the delegation of authority framework
  • Consulting with the Shared Services Central Accounting team to prepare and assist with internal and statutory audits
  • Responsible for ensuring the accounting records correctly reflect the results of the business unit's financial performance, IS, BS & CF
  • Overall team management of reporting and team consolidation for the MCSA entity
  • Business partnering, coaching and development of staff in other business units, namely Showmax and Digital Media Sales.

Business Insight & Reporting Analyst

FirstRand Holdings Limited
10.2018 - 02.2021
  • Analysed, prepared, and interpreted management reports and statutory reports
  • Conducted preparation activities prior to or post the reporting periods
  • Analysed and prepared ad-hoc requests from internal/external stakeholders
  • Prepared Annual financial statements and Bank circulars
  • Worked with the Reserve bank for various submissions
  • Liaised with auditors and provided specialist advice and support to stakeholders
  • Resolved queries and identified personal opportunities for cooperation and collaboration
  • Improved operational efficiency and personal skills
  • Supported corporate social responsibility initiatives and technology implementation
  • Initiated, participated, and supported innovations within Accounting & Reporting
  • Utilized in-depth analysis and creative problem solving to troubleshoot reporting issues
  • Lead innovation within the space
  • Produced quality reports formatted in compliance with data quality standards
  • Increased efficiency of existing processes by identifying areas of improvement during routine report reviews
  • Automated repetitive tasks, freeing up time for more strategic initiatives and reducing manual errors in reporting
  • Trained team members on the use of reporting tools, increasing overall productivity within the department
  • Contributed to a positive work environment by actively participating in team meetings and offering valuable input during brainstorming sessions
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to gather requirements and design comprehensive reporting solutions
  • Created dashboards to monitor and track key performance indicators

Financial Reporting Accountant - Group Finance

FirstRand Holdings Limited
05.2018 - 09.2018
  • Preparation of Bank circulars, note disclosures, and reports for the FirstRand Group annual financial statements
  • Collaborating with internal and external auditors
  • Assisted with budget process and review
  • Enhanced financial reporting accuracy by streamlining data collection and analysis processes
  • Assisted with IFRS 9 transition booklet

Advisory Manager

Malander Advisory
1 2018 - 05.2018
  • Obtained a detailed understanding of Edcon's business and developed a suitable approach to resolving differences in the fixed asset register
  • Drafted engagement deliverables and work papers
  • Applied the principles of IAS 16 and performed fieldwork to resolve material balance in the fixed asset register
  • Resolved material differences and reconciled the Fixed Asset Register (FAR) for the Edcon Group and maintained FAR reconciliation
  • Reviewed financial statements for accuracy and compliance with IAS 16
  • Maintained positive relations by addressing problems head-on and implementing successful corrective actions
  • Liaised with auditors and built client relationships
  • Managed and supervised staff
  • Managed and motivated employees to be productive and engaged in work
  • Conducted business studies and supported innovations within Accounting & Reporting
  • Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by resolving disputes promptly, maintaining open lines of communication, and ensuring high-quality service delivery
  • Communicated clearly with employees and stakeholders to keep everyone on same page and working towards established business goals
  • Cultivated partnerships with external stakeholders to maximize business opportunities and extend network reach within the industry sector

Senior Associate and Associate (articles)

PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc.
01.2015 - 12.2017
  • Fulfilled the role of audit senior and assisted in managing and executing audit engagements for listed and private clients in the Energy, Utilities, and Mining division amongst gaining exposure to other industries by being pro-active and engaging
  • Defined work plans in alignment with stakeholder requirements
  • Involved in all stages of external audits including planning, execution, and completion
  • Obtained a detailed understanding of clients' businesses, assessed internal controls, applied IFRS principles, reviewed financial statements, managed and supervised junior associates, drafted engagement deliverables, and monitored engagement economics
  • Tested complex sections of engagements and provided meaningful contributions to work performed
  • Trained and supported new team members, maintaining culture of collaboration
  • Drafted common document templates to reduce time spent creating documents from scratch
  • Mentored junior associates, fostering professional growth and helping them reach their full potential
  • Served as liaison, facilitating communication between management and associates
  • Consistently maintained strong relationships with clients, ensuring clear communication and timely updates on project progress
  • Effectively managed multiple competing priorities while maintaining focus on delivering exceptional results for clients and the organization
  • Enhanced team performance by implementing effective project management strategies and providing consistent guidance
  • Served as keyholder, overseeing business opening, and closing operations.
  • Boosted overall team morale by creating a positive work environment and encouraging open communication channels among colleagues
  • Remained solutions-oriented in face of complex problems to assist management and overall business direction

Education

Bachelor of Accounting Science - Accounting

University of Witwatersrand
South Africa
04.2001 -

Skills

    Proficient in Microsoft Office suite products

    Stakeholder management

    Attention to detail

    Ability to lead meetings with the team and stakeholders

    Ability to quickly assimilate complex information and ability to perform multiple tasks concurrently

    Proactive and ability to plan

    Ability to prioritize to meet multiple deadlines

    Ability to work under tight deadlines and pressurized situations

    Thrives in a fast paced, constantly evolving environment

    Foster a team environment that promotes growth

    Problem solving

    Team Leadership

    Strategic Planning

    Operations Management

    Time Management

    Performance Management

    Negotiation

    Verbal and written communication

    Problem-Solving

    Teamwork and Collaboration

    Multitasking Abilities

    Decision-Making

    Business process improvement

    Project Finance Management

    Working capital management

    Financial reporting mastery

Biographicalinformation

Neelofar Moosa, Female, South African, Married, Code 8, Reading and Swimming, English, Afrikaans

Systemsproficiency

  • Microsoft Office suite of products - Advanced level.
  • SAP - Advanced level including BPC
  • Oracle Hyperion Financial Management (HFM) - Advanced Level
  • Certent Disclosure Management reporting system (CDM) - Advanced Level
  • Caseware
  • IBM Lotus Notes - Advanced Level
  • SAGE VIP Payroll - Basic Level

Educationandqualifications - Professionalqualifications

  • Assessment of Professional Competence, South African Institute of Chartered Accountants, 2017 (Passed at first attempt)
  • Initial Test of Competence, South African Institute of Chartered Accountants, 2015 (Passed at first attempt)

Timeline

Head of Finance

Bridgestone South Africa
09.2022 - Current

Senior Financial Accountant / Manager - Contract Role

Bridgestone SA
05.2022 - 08.2022

MCSA Finance Manager - Reporting to the CFO

Multichoice
03.2021 - 03.2022

Business Insight & Reporting Analyst

FirstRand Holdings Limited
10.2018 - 02.2021

Financial Reporting Accountant - Group Finance

FirstRand Holdings Limited
05.2018 - 09.2018

Senior Associate and Associate (articles)

PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc.
01.2015 - 12.2017

Bachelor of Accounting Science - Accounting

University of Witwatersrand
04.2001 -

Advisory Manager

Malander Advisory
1 2018 - 05.2018

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Neelofar MoosaHead Of Finance