Technology Enabled Finance Transformation Senior Manager
EY · Johannesburg
The FAAS Technology role is a core component of the FAAS offering, responsible for enabling technology-driven accounting advisory and finance transformation. The role focuses on embedding data, analytics and automation into FAAS engagements to enhance delivery quality, scalability and client value.
This role serves as a bridge between technical accounting, finance processes and technology solutions, supporting clients in modernising their financial reporting environments and improving audit readiness through digital enablement.
The opportunity
It is becoming increasingly important for organisations to critically think about improving their strategy and performance in a rapidly changing, digital and innovative world. We advise CFOs of mainly multinationals, but also mid-market or start-ups, on the future of their Finance function and support them during large transformation programs. For example, in their journey of becoming ever more data-driven, we help our clients accelerate by exploring opportunities that emerging technologies such as GenAI and ML bring to the Finance and Finance Analytics space. Next to that, think about advising CFOs on optimal steering information, improving clients’ financial planning and analysis capabilities, realising a new organisational model, or implementing improved Finance processes and technologies. We advise on a broad range of topics that are high on the CFO agenda and that our BC Finance team is passionate about.
Your Key Responsibilities
Technology-enabled FAAS delivery
- Lead or support the delivery of FAAS engagements through the application of technology-enabled solutions.
- Integrate FAAS tools into client deliverables, including financial reporting automation, data analytics and reconciliation solutions.
- Translate accounting and reporting requirements into structured, system-driven outputs.
Data and analytics
- Extract, transform and analyse financial data to support reporting, audit readiness and decision-making.
- Develop data models, analytical outputs and dashboards aligned to financial reporting requirements.
- Identify anomalies, trends and risk indicators within financial data to support control and audit processes.
Finance processes and controls integration.
- Support the design and optimisation of finance processes, including record-to-report.
- Embed automation and technology into financial control environments to improve consistency and auditability.
- Align technology solutions to internal control frameworks and audit requirements.
Implementation and deployment
- Participate in or lead the implementation of FAAS technology solutions at clients.
- Perform data mapping (e.g., trial balance to reporting structures) and support system configuration.
- Facilitate onboarding, deployment and adoption of tools in collaboration with client finance and IT teams.
Solution development and innovation
- Contribute to the development and enhancement of FAAS technology-enabled solutions.
- Support the localisation and practical application of global FAAS tools within the South African and SOE context.
- Identify opportunities to expand FAAS offerings through technology-driven solutions.
Client engagement and business development
- Support client interactions, including demonstrations of FAAS tools and capabilities.
- Articulate the value of technology-enabled FAAS solutions to finance stakeholders (CFOs, controllers, audit teams).
- Contribute to proposals and go-to-market initiatives involving FAAS technology solutions.
Skills and attributes for success
Technical accounting capability
- Working knowledge of IFRS and financial reporting frameworks.
- Ability to interpret financial statements, disclosures and accounting policies.
Technology and data capability
- Experience with financial systems and data environments (e.g., ERP systems, consolidation tools).
- Exposure to data analytics and visualisation tools (e.g., Power BI, Alteryx or similar).
- Understanding of data structures within finance functions (e.g., general ledger, sub-ledgers, trial balance).
Hybrid skillset
- Ability to bridge accounting, finance and technology teams.
- Strong problem-solving capability with the ability to translate business requirements into practical solutions.
- Effective communication skills, particularly in explaining technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
Project and delivery experience
- Experience in finance transformation, system implementation or technology-enabled projects.
- Ability to operate across multiple engagements and deliver within tight timelines.
To qualify for the role, you must have:
- CA (SA)
- IFRS experience
- A minimum of 8 years' experience in industry or with a recognized consulting firm
- Fluency in English (oral and written)
- Experience with finance functions – Record to report processes involving account reconciliations, Journals, Transaction matching, Variance analysis, intercompany etc.
- Experience in pre-sales/business development/go-to-market roles.
- Ability to lead client workshops and discussions to enable sales.
- Knowledge on Financial Consolidation and Close, Cost Allocation and Finance Planning and Budgeting Processes
- Strong accounting skills and understands financial reports and statements.
- Should have knowledge of activities in financial close of an organisation for month/Quarter/Annual close.
- Translate business requirements to technical language and model/program them in applications.
- Managing/ supervising teams of people on project work
- Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure
- Open to travel (Domestic & International)
Strategic Positioning of the Role
This role is central to the evolution of FAAS, enabling the shift from traditional accounting advisory to technology-enabled, scalable and data-driven service delivery. It directly supports key FAAS priorities, including:
- Scaling audit readiness and reporting support through automation
- Supporting implementation of new accounting standards (e.g., IFRS 18) through technology
- Enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of finance functions across key clients
- Driving growth of FAAS through differentiated, technology-enabled offerings
Ideally, you'll also have
- Good experience in Chart of accounts design
- 4 real time projects on any finance functions with knowledge of technical solutions like Oracle, Blackline, OneStream, SAP, ERPs
- Good Knowledge on ledger and sub-ledger systems; technical know-how of SAP ERP/HANA, Oracle GL
- Practical knowledge of finance data architecture and financial reporting tools in the financial service industry.
- Strong project management skills
What we offer
Our promise to our people is an exceptional EY experience:
- Continuous learning & fast growth. Wide range of on- and off-the-job learning opportunities, and certification tailored to your individual career path.
- International experience. Working in an international environment with projects, events & initiatives, as well as a bright and energetic team.
- Flexibility & wellbeing. We will provide the tools, support, and flexibility, so you can make a meaningful impact, in your own way – a hybrid work model, flexible working hours, and part-time options.
- Transformative leadership. We will give you the insights, coaching and confidence to be the leader the world needs.
- Diverse and inclusive culture. You’ll be embraced for who you are and empowered to use your voice to help others find theirs.
What we look for
We are looking for the next generation of outstanding leaders to continue our legacy. Our top performers in the past have demonstrated deep knowledge of the financial services marketplace, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and an ability to adapt and collaborate in changing circumstances. If you are someone who exhibits a strong commitment to lead projects to completion on time and within budget while guiding junior team members through feedback and coaching, then this role is for you.