Permanent
Compliance Manager
Unknown, Unknown
unknown
Closing date not listed
About this role
Finance/Accounting - Other Finance/Accounting
South Africa
FULL TIME
Job Summary
The Role:
As Compliance Manager, you will lead the review of processes and systems for compliance with Group and local corporate governance requirements, conducting independent risk-based operational reviews, driving improvements in the risk and control framework, and providing strategic advisory to the Board of Directors and Senior Leadership Team.
Reporting to: Finance Director
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Strategic Scope: Execution of strategy / Process custodianship
Principal Accountabilities:
Compliance Reviews & Reporting:
* Perform compliance reviews on pre-identified high-risk processes across the organisation
* Prepare clear, accurate written reports for the Board of Directors and Senior Leadership Team explaining findings and action plans for improvement
* Conduct independent risk-based operational process reviews to ensure systems and procedures support achievement of business goals and objectives
* Perform ad-hoc reviews and investigations into suspected irregularities, reporting findings to the Board and Senior Leadership Team
Risk & Control Framework Management:
* Drive review of the risk and control framework across the organisation
* Lead cross-functional teams in annual self-assessment of internal controls (control navigator assessment)
* Monitor implementation of remedial action plans and ensure timely closure of control weaknesses
* Develop and drive process efficiency improvements based on best practice and in line with Group standardisation
Governance & Committee Support:
* Provide administrative support to the Board Audit & Risk Committee, including preparation of audit committee papers
* Monthly monitoring and reporting of internal controls and governance as per Terms of Reference of the Governance Committee
* Provide administrative support before, during, and after external and internal audits
* Ensure compliance with all Group and local corporate governance requirements
Training & Awareness:
* Provide formal training for management and staff to raise awareness of risk and controls
* Improve risk and control awareness across all levels of the organisation
* Develop communication materials and conduct workshops on governance best practices
Leadership Development:
* Develop leadership skills for career advancement within the organisation
* Mentor and guide team members on compliance and governance matters
What You Bring:
Essential Qualifications:
* Professional accountancy qualification such as ACCA, CPA, or equivalent (Essential)
* Relevant university degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, or related field (Essential)
Essential Experience:
* Minimum 8 years' relevant finance/audit experience (Essential)
* At least 3 years in a controlling or audit-related field (Essential)
* Proven track record conducting compliance reviews, internal audits, or risk assessments
* Experience preparing reports and presenting findings to senior management and Board level
* Demonstrated experience in process improvement and governance enhancement
Technical Skills:
* SAP working knowledge (highly advantageous)
* Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint (Essential)
* Understanding of internal control frameworks (COSO, SOX, or similar)
* Knowledge of corporate governance best practices and regulatory requirements
* Familiarity with risk management methodologies
Key Competencies:
Communication & Stakeholder Management:
* Effective communication and interpersonal skills with ability to manage relationships across all organisational levels
* Good influencing skills with ability to interact confidently with senior management and Board of Directors
* Excellent written communication for preparing clear, concise compliance reports
* Strong presentation skills for delivering training and communicating findings
Business Acumen:
* Basic understanding of commercial business drivers and how they relate to risk and compliance
* Ability to translate compliance requirements into practical business solutions
* Understanding of FMCG or tobacco industry regulatory environment (advantageous)
Personal Attributes:
* Pro-active, persuasive, and creative – introducing new rules and changing standards of practice
* Independent thinker – able to work autonomously whilst maintaining objectivity
* Project management skills – able to manage multiple reviews and initiatives simultaneously
* Analytical and detail-oriented – identifying root causes and developing practical solutions
* Integrity and professionalism – maintaining confidentiality and ethical standards
Key Success Factors:
✅ Clear, concise reports identifying issues, root causes, and practical action plans with timelines
✅ Identification of significant issues and weaknesses, bringing them to management attention
✅ Improvement in controls around risk areas identified by audit committee and senior management
✅ Improved risk and control awareness across management and staff
✅ Successful completion of annual control assessments with measurable improvements
✅ Strong Board Audit & Risk Committee support with timely, high-quality papers
✅ Positive audit outcomes with reduced control weaknesses year-on-year
✅ Effective training programmes increasing compliance culture across the organisation
Working Relationships:
Internal:
* Board of Directors
* Senior Leadership Team
* Direct reports to Senior Leadership Team and middle-level managers
* Internal audit managers
* Finance teams across the organisation
External:
* External auditors
* Distributors
* Suppliers and service providers
* Government tax agencies and regulatory bodies
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