The Business Controller: Topline is responsible for overseeing financial operations related to revenue and topline investments within Danone Southern Africa. This role involves maintaining accurate records, forecasting, and ensuring compliance with corporate governance standards. The Controller will collaborate closely with the Commercial Leadership Team to drive financial growth and stability.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Management

  • Support and challenge the business through financial analysis and performance improvement.

  • Manage month-end closing processes for revenue.

  • Collaborate with the commercial management team to ensure financial targets are met and address financial issues promptly.

  • Monitor and manage revenue accounting systems, including budgeting, variance analysis, deal accuracy, and internal controls.

  • Lead efforts in driving topline financial results and assess performance improvement plans.

  • Provide counsel to the Commercial Leadership Team and other business managers on revenue controls and improvement activities.

  • Manage and execute special projects as assigned by the Head of Topline Controlling and/or Finance Director.

• Financial Planning and Budgeting

  • Oversee financial follow-up of revenue management.

  • Develop revenue budgets and estimates.

  • Deliver annual and ad-hoc revenue investment scenarios.

  • Monitor performance against budget and prior year.

  • Evaluate revenue investment spend, actual spend versus budget, and conduct post-evaluation assessments.

  • Support annual external audit preparation and internal audits.

• Financial Analysis

  • Ensure the integrity of financial reporting for revenue.

  • Analyze the financial impact of different strategies across various channels and product groups.

  • Support all financial activities, including evaluation and reporting, forecasting, budgeting, project evaluation, and investment control.

  • Assist in weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting requirements, including related financial analysis.

• Integration

  • Ensure timely and accurate financial information is provided to CBU and Group.

  • Drive corporate governance within revenue management.

  • Strengthen and support the control environment and compliance activities to safeguard the business.

  • Develop strong working relationships with staff, peers, and senior management.

• Leadership and Management

  • Lead, develop, and support the commercial team with financial reporting and corporate governance.

  • Develop direct reports and junior talent for future roles within CBU finance.

About You

Qualifications

• BCom degree with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in an FMCG environment.

• At least 2 years in a leadership role within Commercial Finance.

Experience and Skills

• Strong communication skills (verbal and written) and influencing abilities.

• Experience in managing people and their expectations.

• Ability to develop junior talent for future roles.

• Proficiency in computer literacy.

• Attention to detail and ability to work under pressure.

• Willingness to learn and adapt.

• Strong financial acumen with the ability to assess the financial implications of decisions.

• Strong analytical, interpretative, and investigative skills.

• Information system-oriented with experience in SAP (FI/CO/MM modules).

About Danone

Danone is a leading global food and beverage company dedicated to bringing health through food to as many people as possible. With a portfolio that includes brands like Nutriday, Yogisip, and Inkomazi, Danone operates in over 120 markets worldwide. The company is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, supporting employee development, and promoting sustainability.

We Offer

A dynamic and challenging work environment with opportunities for professional growth. At Danone, we believe in the potential of every individual and are committed to building careers based on unique strengths and talents. Join us in our mission to create a healthier world.

For more information about Danone and to apply, please visit careers.danone.com.