Ian | Freelancer Resume

Phone Number - Email- Ian (Keith) Baron Address Johannesburg, Gauteng 2191 Head of ﬁnance baron-58aab166/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian- Dynamic and results-oriented Head of Finance with over 8 years of progressive experience in ﬁnancial management, strategic planning, and operational oversight. Proven track record in driving ﬁnancial performance through data-driven decision-making and robust budgeting processes. Adept at leading cross-functional teams, implementing cost management strategies, and optimizing ﬁnancial operations to enhance proﬁtability SKILLS • • • • • • • Strategic Financial Management: Ability to develop and implement ﬁnancial strategies that align with the organization's long-term goals. Financial Analysis and Reporting: Expertise in analyzing ﬁnancial statements and reports to assess the organization's ﬁnancial health and make informed decisions. Leadership and Team Management: Strong leadership skills to inspire and guide ﬁnance teams, fostering collaboration and professional development. Cost Management: Expertise in implementing costcontrol measures and eﬃciency improvements to enhance proﬁtability. Decision-Making: Strong analytical and critical thinking skills for making informed decisions under pressure and in uncertain environments Performance Management: Skills in developing key performance indicators (KPIs) and performance metrics to evaluate ﬁnancial performance and drive improvements. Project Management: Ability to manage ﬁnancial projects, including mergers and acquisitions • • • • • • • Budgeting and Forecasting: Proﬁciency in preparing and managing budgets, as well as forecasting ﬁnancial performance based on data analysis Risk Management: Skills in identifying, assessing, and mitigating ﬁnancial risks to protect the organization's assets and ensure compliance with regulations. Stakeholder Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to present complex ﬁnancial information clearly to executives and external stakeholders Technology Proﬁciency: Knowledge of ﬁnancial software, ERP systems, and data analysis tools to optimize ﬁnancial processes and reporting Negotiation Skills: Ability to negotiate ﬁnancial agreements, contracts, and terms effectively with vendors and stakeholders. Business Acumen: Understanding of market trends, economic conditions, and business operations to inform ﬁnancial strategies. Ethical Standards: Commitment to maintaining high ethical standards in ﬁnancial reporting and decisionmaking processes. EXPERIENCE Head of Finance Shingai Group • • May 2023 - Present Developed and implemented ﬁnancial strategies aligned with the company's long-term objectives, enhancing proﬁtability and growth. Conducted comprehensive ﬁnancial analysis to support strategic decision-making by senior management. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Led the annual budgeting process, collaborating with department heads to ensure accuracy and alignment with strategic goals. Prepared detailed ﬁnancial forecasts to project revenue and expenses, enabling proactive management of ﬁnancial performance. Oversaw the preparation and presentation of monthly, quarterly, and annual ﬁnancial statements in compliance with accounting standards. Analyzed ﬁnancial data to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for improvement, providing actionable insights to stakeholders. Managed cash ﬂow effectively, ensuring liquidity and optimizing working capital to support operational needs. Implemented cash management strategies that improved cash ﬂow forecasting and collection processes. Identiﬁed and assessed ﬁnancial risks, developing mitigation strategies to protect the organization's assets and ensure regulatory compliance. Established internal controls and ﬁnancial policies to safeguard company resources and minimize risks. Led and mentored a ﬁnance team, fostering a collaborative environment and encouraging professional growth through training and development opportunities. Conducted performance evaluations and provided constructive feedback to enhance team performance. Communicated ﬁnancial performance and strategic initiatives to the board of directors, investors, and other key stakeholders. Built strong relationships with external auditors, regulatory bodies, and ﬁnancial institutions to ensure compliance and foster transparency. Analyzed cost structures and implemented cost-saving initiatives that resulted in signiﬁcant reductions in operational expenses. Collaborated with various departments to identify process ineﬃciencies and recommend improvements. Led ﬁnancial due diligence for potential mergers and acquisitions, evaluating the ﬁnancial viability and risks associated with prospective deals. Managed ﬁnancial integration of newly acquired companies to ensure alignment with corporate ﬁnancial standards. Evaluated and implemented ﬁnancial software and ERP systems to enhance reporting accuracy and streamline ﬁnancial processes. Championed data analytics initiatives to leverage ﬁnancial data for strategic insights and improved decisionmaking. Key Achievements: • • • Successfully reduced operational costs by 8 % through the implementation of eﬃciency initiatives and cost management strategies. Improved the accuracy of ﬁnancial forecasts, leading to better resource allocation and planning. Spearheaded a ﬁnancial restructuring project that enhanced cash ﬂow management and improved overall ﬁnancial health. Financial Analyst ETG Cure Chem • • • Feb 2023 - Apr 2023 Conducted in-depth ﬁnancial analysis to identify trends, variances, and key performance indicators (KPIs), presenting ﬁndings to senior management for strategic planning. Performed cost analysis for various projects and operational activities, identifying areas for cost reduction and eﬃciency improvements. Developed ﬁnancial models to assess potential investment opportunities and business scenarios, aiding in the evaluation of project feasibility. • Conducted variance analysis to compare actual ﬁnancial performance against budgeted targets, identifying signiﬁcant discrepancies and providing recommendations for corrective actions. • Communicated ﬁnancial insights and recommendations to stakeholders, facilitating discussions on ﬁnancial performance and strategic initiatives. Key Achievements: • Enhanced the accuracy of ﬁnancial forecasts through improved data collection and analysis methods. Finance Manager Vikudha South Africa • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Feb 2019 - Jan 2023 Led the ﬁnancial planning process, including budgeting, forecasting, and ﬁnancial modeling for chemical and chrome trading operations. Developed comprehensive ﬁnancial reports to track proﬁtability, cash ﬂow, and key performance indicators (KPIs). Managed and monitored annual budgets, providing variance analysis to assess ﬁnancial performance against forecasts. Collaborated with department heads to ensure adherence to ﬁnancial targets. Implemented cost-saving measures across procurement, supply chain, and operations, resulting in a 6% reduction in overall costs. Conducted detailed cost-beneﬁt analyses to support strategic decision-making. Oversaw trade ﬁnance operations, including Letters of Credit (LCs), payment terms, and currency risk management, ensuring seamless cross-border transactions for bulk chemicals and chrome shipments. Identiﬁed and mitigated ﬁnancial risks, particularly around ﬂuctuating commodity prices, forex risk in crossborder transactions, and credit risk related to client receivables.. Managed the ﬁnancial aspects of cross-border supply contracts, including setting up ﬁnancial structures for bulk orders, such as the sodium cyanide contract to Zimbabwe via Beira port. Maintained liquidity through proactive cash ﬂow management, optimizing the use of cash reserves to ensure smooth operations and meet obligations. Conducted proﬁtability analysis of the chrome and chemical trading divisions, identifying margin pressures from international price volatility. Provided recommendations to enhance pricing strategies and improve margins. Partnered with procurement and supply chain teams to ensure cost-effective sourcing, inventory management, and timely delivery of chemicals and chrome, minimizing holding costs and improving turnover rates. Prepared monthly, quarterly, and annual ﬁnancial statements in compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Reported ﬁnancial results to regional and global headquarters. Liaised with tax authorities to ensure compliance with local and international tax laws. Managed VAT, import duties, and transfer pricing to optimize the company's tax position. Managed external audits and maintained robust internal controls to ensure the accuracy of ﬁnancial reporting and compliance with company policies and procedures. Led and mentored a team of ﬁnance professionals, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Ensured alignment with corporate objectives and ﬁnancial best practices. Worked closely with senior management and external partners, including suppliers, clients, and banks, to negotiate contracts, secure ﬁnancing, and resolve ﬁnancial issues. • Played a key role in the implementation and optimization of ﬁnancial systems (ERP) to streamline reporting, improve data accuracy, and enhance operational eﬃciency. Achievements: • • • • Successfully structured a major sodium cyanide bulk order contract to Zimbabwe, ensuring timely delivery and minimizing logistical costs. Delivered cost savings of 6% by improving procurement processes and optimizing the supply chain. Reduced working capital requirements by 12% through improved receivables and inventory management. Improved margin control in the chrome division by analyzing cost structures and adjusting pricing strategies. Senior Accountant Simplexity Services • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Prepared and analyzed monthly, quarterly, and annual ﬁnancial statements, ensuring accuracy and compliance with U.S. GAAP and industry standards. Developed comprehensive ﬁnancial reports and dashboards using tools like QuickBooks, Xero, and other cloudbased accounting software, tailored speciﬁcally to the unique needs of SaaS clients. Analyzed key ﬁnancial metrics such as MRR (Monthly Recurring Revenue), ARR (Annual Recurring Revenue), CAC (Customer Acquisition Cost), and churn rates to provide insights into client business performance. Collaborated with the ﬁnance team to provide variance analysis on actual vs. budgeted ﬁnancial results, identifying areas for improvement. Managed revenue recognition processes in compliance with ASC 606, ensuring accurate recording of recurring revenues and subscription-based services. Maintained deferred revenue schedules and worked closely with SaaS clients to ensure timely recognition of revenues based on contract terms. Analyzed client contracts to determine appropriate revenue treatment, including multi-element arrangements and subscription models. Oversaw the accounts receivable and payable functions, including invoicing clients, processing payments, and reconciling accounts. Monitored aging reports and followed up on outstanding invoices to maintain optimal cash ﬂow for SaaS clients. Managed vendor relationships, ensuring timely payments and negotiation of favorable terms for clients. Managed the month-end and year-end close processes, including preparation of journal entries, accruals, and reconciliations of key accounts (bank accounts, prepaid expenses, deferred revenues, and payroll). Reconciled general ledger accounts and ensured all transactions were properly recorded, with a focus on maintaining clean and accurate ﬁnancial records. Provided proactive ﬁnancial advice to SaaS clients, helping them optimize their pricing strategies, subscription models, and recurring revenue streams. Worked closely with CFOs and business owners to evaluate the ﬁnancial health of their companies, offering guidance on cost reduction and revenue growth strategies. Utilized ﬁnancial metrics and data-driven insights to provide tailored recommendations, enhancing client proﬁtability and ﬁnancial sustainability. Leveraged cloud-based accounting platforms like QuickBooks Online, Xero, and SaaS-speciﬁc tools to automate and streamline ﬁnancial processes. Assisted clients with the implementation and integration of ﬁnancial software and systems to improve accuracy and eﬃciency in ﬁnancial reporting. Managed data migrations and system updates, ensuring minimal disruption to client accounting processes Risk Assessor Deloitte and Touche Zimbabwe • • • • • Jan 2018 - Jan 2019 Jun 2017 - Sep 2017 Conducted comprehensive risk assessments for agriculture commodity trading clients, identifying key risks in the supply chain, market volatility, currency ﬂuctuations, and regulatory changes. Evaluated ﬁnancial and operational risks for NGOs, focusing on fund management, donor compliance, and program delivery risks. Identiﬁed risks associated with inventory management, procurement processes, and contract compliance in the agriculture sector. Assessed geopolitical and environmental risks that could affect agricultural commodity prices and supply. Applied quantitative and qualitative analysis to prioritize risks based on their potential ﬁnancial and operational impact. • • • • • • Developed tailored risk mitigation strategies for clients, including hedging strategies for commodity price ﬂuctuations and foreign exchange exposure. Recommended internal control improvements to enhance transparency, accountability, and compliance with donor and regulatory requirements for NGOs. Assessed the effectiveness of existing risk management frameworks and suggested enhancements to reduce vulnerabilities. Compiled detailed risk assessment reports, highlighting key risk areas, potential impacts, and recommended mitigation strategies. Developed risk heat maps and dashboards to provide clients with a clear visual representation of their risk exposure. Documented processes, risks, and controls in line with Deloitte's risk assessment frameworks, ensuring clear communication with both clients and internal teams. Financial Consultant Fairvalue Chartered Accountants • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Aug 2014 - May 2017 Specializing in Audit, Risk Management, Accounting, Business Valuation, and Financing Advisory for SMEs across various industries (NGOs, Engineering, Construction, Logistics, FMCG, Manufacturing, Financial Services, Tech Startups, Agriculture, Hospitality, Tourism, Retail, Real Estate) Conducted comprehensive audits for clients across industries, ensuring compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and other regulatory requirements. Developed audit plans, performed risk assessments, and tested internal controls to identify ﬁnancial discrepancies and potential risks. Delivered audit reports highlighting key ﬁndings and provided actionable recommendations to improve internal controls and compliance. Provided accounting services including the preparation of ﬁnancial statements, management accounts, and cash ﬂow forecasts. Ensured accurate recording of ﬁnancial transactions in accordance with accounting standards and best practices. Assisted clients in month-end and year-end closing processes, including reconciling accounts and preparing ﬁnal ﬁnancial reports for stakeholders. Assessed ﬁnancial, operational, and compliance risks for clients, developing strategies to mitigate risks and safeguard assets. Implemented risk management frameworks to identify, evaluate, and address potential risks in business processes. Advised clients on regulatory changes and helped them adapt ﬁnancial policies and procedures to ensure compliance. Conducted business valuations for companies across diverse sectors, including startups, manufacturing, and retail. Used a variety of valuation methods (e.g., Discounted Cash Flow, Comparable Company Analysis, and Precedent Transactions) to provide accurate assessments of company worth. Prepared valuation reports for stakeholders, investors, and potential buyers in the context of mergers, acquisitions, or capital raising efforts. Advised clients on ﬁnancial restructuring, capital raising, and debt management, helping to optimize ﬁnancial performance and liquidity. Assisted businesses in preparing detailed ﬁnancial models and business plans to attract investors or secure funding from banks. Conducted ﬁnancial due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures, ensuring a thorough understanding of ﬁnancial risks and opportunities. • • • • • • Worked closely with SMEs to develop robust budgeting processes, providing ﬁnancial forecasting and scenario planning to guide long-term strategy. Monitored actual performance against budgets, identifying variances and recommending corrective actions to improve proﬁtability. Provided tax planning services, ensuring clients' compliance with local tax regulations and maximizing tax eﬃciency. Assisted with the preparation and submission of tax returns, VAT ﬁlings, and other statutory ﬁnancial ﬁlings. Built and maintained strong client relationships, acting as a trusted ﬁnancial advisor for businesses across industries. Delivered ﬁnancial consulting services tailored to the unique needs of clients, helping them achieve ﬁnancial growth and operational eﬃciency. • Conducted ﬁnancial workshops and training for clients to enhance their understanding of ﬁnancial management practices. Industry-Speciﬁc Consulting: • • • • • • NGO: Advised non-proﬁts on grant management, donor reporting, and compliance with NGO ﬁnancial regulations. Construction & Engineering: Managed project-based ﬁnancials, including cash ﬂow planning and contract accounting. Logistics & Manufacturing: Provided cost analysis, inventory management advice, and process eﬃciency improvements. FMCG & Retail: Supported ﬁnancial planning, stock management, and pricing strategies to boost proﬁtability. Tech Startups: Assisted with startup funding rounds, investor presentations, and ﬁnancial model creation for scaling operations. Real Estate: Provided ﬁnancial analysis for property valuations, rental yield projections, and investment strategies. EDUCATION Bachelor of Commerce Accounting Honors Degree Midlands State University Jan 2015 Advanced level Thornhill High School Jan 2010 Ordinary level St Francis Xavier College Jan 2008 REFERENCES References available upon request CERTIFICATIONS • CIMA Dip MA CONTACTPROFILE - SKILLS • CIMA Adv Dip MA