Advanced Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Powerpoint, Access and Teams
Talent Tashinga Chimhanda
Financial Controller
Sandton,GP
Summary
Financial Controller supporting 3–5 entities in monthly close, reporting, and compliance across regional shared-services operations. Delivers balance sheet and income statement reconciliations, cash forecasting for 8–12 weeks ahead, and audit readiness while reducing 6+ audit findings per annual cycle, strengthening internal controls, intercompany settlement accuracy, and working-capital discipline. Partners with senior finance leaders to keep GL integrity, payment controls, and statutory reporting on track.
Overview
2
2
Certifications
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
FINANCIAL CONTROLLER
Front Runner Dometic
05.2024 - Current
- Supporting a team of Financial Controllers in 7 Regional sister entities as well as the Group Financial Controller on end-to-end financial planning, reporting, and compliance obligations
- Prepared and reviewed monthly balance sheet reconciliations and analysis for 4 entities by midday on workday 3, achieving audit-ready status.
- Prepared and reviewed Monthly Income Statement reconciliations and analysis and 4 entities by Midday workday 3 to an audit ready status
- Executed daily/monthly GL reconciliations and journal entries, significantly reducing open reconciling items to enhance financial accuracy.
- Managed debtor and creditor balances, enhancing collection cycles and payment accuracy to strengthen working capital discipline across diverse classes.
- Supported internal and external audit processes, resulting in lower audit findings in progressive years and improved work processes and an exemplary internal control environment for peer sister companies on a group basis (the audit covered would Include the Jurisdiction statutory External audit conducted by one of the big 4, Corporate external audit, Internal Group Banking audit as the entities have a lot of e-commerce Platforms
- Maintained Fixed assets registers and maintenance as well as Bi-yearly, Internal audit verification exercises
- Conducted MICR (Minimum Internal Control Requirements) yearly groundwork and reports for Group internal audit function
- Inter and Intra Company Reconciliation and maintenance
- Stock Valuation and control
- Payroll Journal and reconciliation
- Foreigner creditor management and processing
- Cash and Bank reconciliation and 12 weekly cash balance and Cash Forecasts
- Petty Cash recon and banking
- Supporting Senior Management with Budget input
- Manage intercompany and intergroup settlements, confirm balances monthly, and ensure timely vendor payments and customer collections.
- Prepare annual rolling cash-flow forecasts, improving liquidity visibility and reducing funding gaps.
- Act as first reviewer/releaser of payment packs on electronic banking platforms, ensuring dual-authorization compliance and adherence to exchange-control regulations.
- Engaged in Cost accounting functions such as landed costing computation for raw materials, Resaleable stock and Intra group stock movement as well a
- May 2024 – Date
- Oversaw accounts payable and receivable functions, streamlining cash flow management.
- Mentored finance team members, fostering professional development and operational excellence.
- Analyzed variances in financial performance, providing insights for executive decision-making.
- Established internal controls to mitigate risks and enhance financial integrity across operations.
- Oversaw all aspects of the month-end close process, ensuring timely completion of accurate financial statements for executive review.
- Maintained strong relationships with external auditors, facilitating smooth annual audit processes and addressing any concerns promptly.
- Ensured compliance with regulatory requirements by conducting thorough internal audits and implementing necessary corrective actions.
- Led organizational cash flow and cash flow forecasting initiatives.
- Identified areas for operational improvement through detailed financial analysis, leading to increased profitability and reduced expenses.
- Implemented rigorous internal control measures to safeguard company assets and prevent fraud or mismanagement risks.
- Prepared balance sheets, cash flow reports and income statements.
- Followed up with delinquent accounts to obtain funds and reduce aging balances.
- Provided treasury and cash management by overseeing reconciliation of banking activity, credit card processing, and sales tax returns.
- Managed outstanding balance amounts by evaluating reports and determining collection statuses.
INTERCOMPANY ADMINISTRATOR
Front Runner Rack 2000 (Pty) Limited
05.2019 - 04.2024
- Processed and reconciled high-volume intercompany transactions and settlements across multiple entities, maintaining exceptional accuracy and clearing aged items within SLA.
- Managed end-to-end cash application and intercompany billing, ensuring dual-authorization compliance and maintaining complete audit trail.
- Supported accurate recording of intercompany balances impacting the consolidated financial position, performance, and cash-flow disclosures.
- Prepared supporting schedules, reconciliations, and working papers used in group reporting and external audit, contributing to clean audit outcomes.
- Introduced automated reporting and strengthened controls that reduced manual effort and shortened the month-end close cycle.
- Implemented improvements in reporting procedures, increasing accuracy and reducing turnaround times.
- Handled sensitive information discreetly, maintaining strict confidentiality at all times as required by company policy or legal regulations.
- Managed office communications, ensuring timely dissemination of information across departments.
- Developed and maintained filing systems, improving document retrieval speed and accuracy.
- Implemented reporting procedure improvements, enhancing accuracy and reducing turnaround times.
- Handled sensitive information discreetly, maintaining strict confidentiality at all times.
- Coordinated with IT department to upgrade software, ensuring all systems were up-to-date and running efficiently.
- Cultivated positive relationships with vendors to deliver timely and cost-effective supply of services and materials.
- Cultivated relationships with vendors to ensure timely delivery of services and materials.
DIRECT DEBITS AND SERVICES MANAGER
SAGE International PLC: Shared Services Centre
05.2017 - 04.2019
- Successfully managed complex credit, collections, and cash processes across multiple international markets, consistently meeting or exceeding DSO targets.
- Implemented robust credit-risk and debt-recovery procedures that reduced bad-debt exposure.
- Built and led a high-performing international collections team through training, coaching, and performance management.
- Streamlined intercompany and direct-debit processes using Lean Six Sigma principles, enhancing operational control and process efficiency.
- Developed and implemented a Service Management Framework with clear KPIs and controls.
- Ensured rigorous regulatory compliance across direct-debit, refund, and international requirements.
- Produced management information that supported decision-making on cash flow and working capital.
- Handled escalated financial queries while balancing customer and business needs, facilitating smooth integration of acquisitions.
- May 2017 – April 2019
- Led service team to enhance customer satisfaction and retention through effective problem resolution.
- Developed and implemented training programs for staff, elevating service quality and operational efficiency.
- Analyzed customer feedback to identify trends and drive improvements in service delivery processes.
- Coordinated cross-departmental collaboration to streamline workflows and optimize resource allocation.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring compliance with company policies and industry regulations.
- Mentored junior staff, fostering professional growth and enhancing team performance metrics.
- Utilized CRM systems to track service requests, improving response times and customer engagement strategies.
- Spearheaded initiatives aimed at reducing service-related costs while maintaining high-quality standards.
- Resolved customer complaints in professional and a timely manner.
- Resolved escalated customer complaints professionally, turning potentially negative experiences into opportunities for continued patronage.
- Hired, trained and supervised a team of service staff members to meet business goals.
- Analyzed service reports to identify areas of improvement.
- Coordinated with other departments to maintain streamlined and productive workflow.
- Developed and maintained positive relationships with customers to build rapport and trust.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations for staff members, offering constructive feedback and facilitating professional development opportunities.
- Implemented strategies to increase customer service satisfaction ratings.
- Monitored service staff performance and provided feedback for improvement.
- Coordinated cross-departmental efforts to address complex customer issues, facilitating better communication and collaboration between teams.
- Enhanced team morale through regular recognition of exceptional performance and organizing team-building events.
- Monitored team performance, adhered to service level agreements (SLAs) and provided detailed job training.
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations by staying current on relevant updates and adjusting company policies accordingly.
- Coordinated with the sales team to develop service packages that aligned with customer needs, driving additional revenue.
- Fostered culture of continuous improvement, encouraging staff to suggest and implement process enhancements.
CASH ALLOCATIONS MANAGER
SAGE International PLC: Shared Services Centre
08.2016 - 04.2017
- Managed high-volume cash-allocation processes across multiple channels, delivering accurate and timely postings that supported clean general-ledger balances and reduced unallocated cash.
- Redesigned cash-application and reconciliation processes and trained the team, cutting average resolution times and raising accuracy to near-perfect levels.
- Ensured strong internal controls through dual authorization and maintained full audit trails for all allocations.
- Facilitated GL mapping from disparate reporting software to align with group-wide ERP system and reconstructed trial balance.
- Assisted with the winding down of a reporting entity from a reporting and a legal perspective as well as to meet group requirements
- Aug 2016 – April 2017
- Led cross-functional teams to enhance operational efficiency and service delivery.
- Developed and implemented process improvements to streamline workflow within shared services.
- Managed vendor relationships, ensuring compliance with service level agreements.
- Conducted performance evaluations, providing coaching and feedback to team members.
- Facilitated training sessions to enhance staff competencies in service operations.
- Coordinated interdepartmental projects, enhancing collaboration and improving service outcomes.
- Managed and motivated employees to be productive and engaged in work.
- Cross-trained existing employees to maximize team agility and performance.
- Achieved departmental goals by developing and executing strategic plans and performance metrics.
- Built high-performing teams through effective recruitment, onboarding, and talent development initiatives.
- Mentored junior team members for career advancement, fostering a pipeline of future leaders within the organization.
- Streamlined workflows by identifying bottlenecks in existing systems and implementing appropriate solutions.
- Increased market share with strategic business development efforts, expanding into untapped markets.
- Coordinated with IT department to upgrade technology infrastructure, enhancing operational efficiency and data security.
- Maintained professional demeanor by staying calm when addressing unhappy or angry customers.
- Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
- Established performance goals for employees and provided feedback on methods for reaching those milestones.
INTERIM ORDER TO CASH PROCESS LEAD
SAGE International PLC: Shared Services Centre
04.2016 - 07.2016
- Played a key role in a major Order-to-Cash transformation across five international operating companies.
- Mapped end-to-end O2C processes, documented current practices, and helped design standardized best-practice policies.
- Led the transition of billing and collections activities into a centralized shared-services model.
- Identified and implemented process re-engineering opportunities in preparation for ERP migration.
- Established clear SLAs and KPIs that drove accountability and sustained operational excellence.
- Led cross-functional teams to implement process improvements and increase service delivery quality.
- Conducted regular audits to assess compliance with company policies and identify areas for improvement.
- Analyzed performance metrics to drive data-driven decisions and optimize resource allocation.
- Evaluated process performance metrics, identifying areas requiring improvement or optimization for increased efficiency.
- Streamlined processes by identifying inefficiencies and implementing improvements for increased productivity.
- Cultivated relationships with key stakeholders, communicating project updates regularly for transparency and alignment on goals.
- Identified opportunities for continuous improvement through data analysis and process evaluation.
- Led successful change management initiatives, minimizing disruptions during transitions while maximizing positive outcomes for the organization as a whole.
- Enhanced data gathering, extraction and analysis for diverse workflows and procedures.
- Reported on findings and made proactive and targeted recommendations to senior leaders.
VOLUMES COLLECTION ANALYST
SAGE Pastel Accounting
06.2014 - 03.2016
- Managed multi-channel collections and reconciliations, achieving strong collection rates and reducing aged debt and exceptions.
- Implemented dual-control and segregation-of-duties checks plus exception reporting that strengthened internal controls and reduced processing discrepancies.
- Produced regular management information and performance reports that supported cash-flow and working-capital decisions.
- Supported month-end and year-end close activities, including journal preparation, balance-sheet reconciliations, and audit schedules.
- June 2014 – March 2016
- Analyzed outstanding accounts to identify collection strategies and improve cash flow.
- Developed payment plans tailored to client needs, enhancing customer relationships and reducing delinquencies.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to resolve account discrepancies and optimize collection processes.
- Monitored aging reports and initiated follow-up actions on overdue accounts to ensure timely collections.
- Trained junior analysts on best practices for collections and dispute resolution techniques, fostering team development.
- Led initiatives to enhance data accuracy in collection systems, contributing to informed decision-making across departments.
- Prepared accounts receivable-related journal entries for accounting month-end close.
- Assisted in developing policies and procedures for credit management, promoting a proactive approach to collections efforts.
- Streamlined collections processes, resulting in improved efficiency and productivity within the department.
- Served as a subject matter expert within the collections team, providing guidance and support to colleagues on complex cases.
- Enhanced cash flow for the company with timely collection efforts on overdue accounts.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to address root causes of late payments and implement corrective actions.
- Provided training for new hires on best practices in collections strategies, contributing to a well-prepared team.
- Ensured compliance with relevant laws and regulations governing debt collection activities, reducing organizational risk exposure.
- Conducted credit risk assessments on potential customers, supporting informed decisions about extending credit terms.
- Maintained strong relationships with clients to ensure prompt payment and encourage repeat business.
- Facilitated clear communication between company representatives and clients regarding billing discrepancies, leading to swift resolutions.
- Managed an extensive portfolio of accounts while maintaining excellent attention to detail, minimizing errors during the collection process.
- Collaborated with customers to resolve disputes.
- Utilized various software programs to process customer payments.
- Monitored outstanding invoices and performed collections duties.
- Maintained accurate records of customer payments.
- Processed payment via telephone and in person with focus on accuracy and efficiency.
- Produced and mailed monthly statements to customers and assisted with related requests for information and clarification.
- Reconciled accounts receivable to general ledger.
- Created improved filing system to maintain secure client data.
- Verified accuracy of accounts payable payments, resulting in 25% reduction in payment errors and check reissues.
- Processed vendor and supplier payments on a weekly basis.
TRAINEE ACCOUNTANT
Tabaldi Accounting Intelligence
01.2013 - 05.2014
- Calculated income-tax liabilities and prepared accurate tax returns (individuals and corporates), ensuring full SARS compliance and zero penalties on the assigned portfolio.
- Prepared and submitted VAT, PAYE, and other statutory returns on time.
- Maintained accurate accounting records and compiled annual financial statements and supporting working papers in accordance with applicable accounting frameworks.
- Assisted in preparation of financial statements and reports to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Supported month-end closing processes by reconciling accounts and verifying transactions.
- Assisted in preparing cash-flow forecasts and working-capital analyses, contributing to informed client reporting.
- Performed financial analysis (profitability, efficiency, liquidity, solvency) and variance reviews that informed client advice.
- Performed variance analysis to identify discrepancies between actual results and budget projections for proactive problemsolving.
- Ensured compliance with tax regulations by accurately preparing tax returns and submitting them within deadlines.
- Ensured timely completion of financial audits by compiling documentation and providing accurate information to auditors.
- Assisted with cash-flow forecasts, working-capital analyses, and client reporting.
- Demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional development through participation in industry seminars, workshops, and training sessions.
- Performed variance analysis to identify discrepancies between actual results and budget projections for proactive problem solving.
- Facilitated client meetings to discuss financial planning strategies, fostering stronger relationships.
- Ensured strict confidentiality of client financial information, building trust and loyalty.
- Participated in ongoing professional development workshops, staying current with industry changes and standards.
- Provided exceptional customer service when addressing vendor inquiries or concerns regarding payment status or invoice disputes.
ASSISTANT FINANCIAL PLANNER
Blignaut Bluestar Financial Advisory - SANLAM
06.2011 - 05.2012
- Prepared accurate, data-driven financial plans, projections, and client reports.
- Developed comprehensive financial plans tailored to client needs and goals.
- Conducted detailed financial analyses, identifying potential areas of improvement for clients'' financial situations.
- Coordinated implementation support and information gathering among stakeholders to ensure seamless execution of financial plans.
- Analyzed investment opportunities to optimize portfolio performance and risk management.
- Proactively monitored portfolios and recommended timely adjustments.
- Maintained meticulous client documentation and ensured full regulatory and compliance adherence.
- Monitored compliance requirements related directly or indirectly associated with the advisory practice.
- Coordinated implementation support and information gathering across parties.
- Organized client meetings and presentations, effectively communicating complex financial concepts in an easy-to-understand manner.
- Assisted in the preparation of financial reports for internal stakeholders and clients.
- Improved client satisfaction by providing comprehensive financial planning services tailored to individual needs.
- Increased client retention rates by developing strong relationships through excellent communication and personalized service.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge on industry trends, utilizing this information to provide informed advice to clients.
- Organized client meetings and presentations to clarify complex financial concepts and enhance client understanding.
- Drafted comprehensive financial plan to offer recommendations and supporting data.
- Interviewed clients to determine current income, expenses, insurance coverage, tax status, financial objectives, risk tolerance and other information needed to develop financial plan.
- Studied financial documents to identify potential areas needing improvement.
- June 2011 – May 2012
- Studied financial documents to identify potential areas needing improvement.
Education
BSc (Hons) - Applied Accounting
Oxford Brookes University (OBU)
Headington, Oxford, UK01-2013
MBA - Accounting, Performance Management And Auditing
Association of Chartered And Certified Accountants (A.C.C.A)
London - United Kingdom 04.2001 -
Skills
Cash and bank reconciliation
Intercompany reconciliation
Month-end close
Journal entries
Balance sheet reconciliation
Power BI
Crystal Reports
Sage Pastel
Xero
Syspro ERP 6
IFRS reporting
Support ot Group Financial Controller - Financial consolidation
Treasury management
Hyperion Financial Management
ACCA qualification - 2 Papers Pending
SOX compliance - For the American Region Entities
Financial due diligence
Accomplishments
- Reduced the total percentage of past due accounts from 20% to 9%.
Affiliations
- Member of the Institute of Risk Management South Africa (IRMSA)
- Association of Chartered and Certified Accountants (ACCA) – 2 Modules Pending
Software
Crystal reports
Sage Accounting packages (Sageone, Partner, Xpress, Payroll, Auditor, Sage300, Sage 500 and Sage X3
Syspro Accounting Package
Financial Planning Software (Spotlightnet and Sanport)
Ecommerce billing plaform (Magento and Zoura)
Customer Relationship Management Tools (Wrike, CRM and Netadmin)
Business Reporting tools (Power BI and AARO)
Xero Accounting Software Package
Various Payment Gateways (Stripe, Klarna, PayPal, Bread, SquareUp, PayJustNow, Adyen, Payflex, Amazo
Certification
Member of the Institute of Risk Management South Africa (IRMSA)
Interests
I am passionate about Sustainable farming
I enjoy analysis of financial trends with their linkage to Global Geo-Politics
I enjoy Formula -1 and Tennis
Timeline
FINANCIAL CONTROLLER
Front Runner Dometic
05.2024 - Current
INTERCOMPANY ADMINISTRATOR
Front Runner Rack 2000 (Pty) Limited
05.2019 - 04.2024
DIRECT DEBITS AND SERVICES MANAGER
SAGE International PLC: Shared Services Centre
05.2017 - 04.2019
CASH ALLOCATIONS MANAGER
SAGE International PLC: Shared Services Centre
08.2016 - 04.2017
INTERIM ORDER TO CASH PROCESS LEAD
SAGE International PLC: Shared Services Centre
04.2016 - 07.2016
VOLUMES COLLECTION ANALYST
SAGE Pastel Accounting
06.2014 - 03.2016
TRAINEE ACCOUNTANT
Tabaldi Accounting Intelligence
01.2013 - 05.2014
ASSISTANT FINANCIAL PLANNER
Blignaut Bluestar Financial Advisory - SANLAM
06.2011 - 05.2012
MBA - Accounting, Performance Management And Auditing
Association of Chartered And Certified Accountants (A.C.C.A)
04.2001 -
BSc (Hons) - Applied Accounting
Oxford Brookes University (OBU)