Jonathan Tapera

JONATHAN TAPERA PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY Finance and audit professional with over 5 years of experience across external audit, financial reporting, bookkeeping and corporate finance. Demonstrated success leading audit engagements, strengthening internal controls, and ensuring regulatory compliance across multiple industries. Skilled in financial modelling, risk assessment, and translating complex financial data into strategic insights for executive decision-making. Known for driving efficiency improvements, enhancing reporting accuracy, and supporting business growth through data-driven financial leadership. Core Competences & Skills • Financial Reporting • Strategic Planning • Portfolio Management • Audit & Assurance • Process Management • Enterprise Risk Management • Internal Control Systems • Data Analysis • Cost Management • Financial Planning and Analysis • Financial Management • Financial Modelling • Sage Intact and Quick Books • Advanced Excel • Power BI Major Highlights • Built strong client relationships through proactive communication and tailored financial solutions, driving repeat engagements. • Led audit teams of up to four staff, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality audit assignments. • Implemented tax optimization strategies and streamlined financial reporting processes, reducing the monthly close cycle by 20%. • Provided financial forecasts, variance analysis, and implemented dashboards to enhance management insight and strategic decision-making. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE Urban Africa Creative (Private) Limited (ZW), Zimbabwe 03/2025 – Present Finance and Administration Manager • Lead preparation of financial statements, budgets, and forecasts in compliance with IFRS and regulatory requirements. • Manage cash flow, banking relationships, and working capital to support operational funding and liquidity. • Strengthened internal controls, improved accounting systems, and ensured tax compliance (VAT, PAYE, Corporate Tax) while coordinating external audits. • Reduced overhead costs by ~15% through process improvements, supplier negotiations, and enhanced cost controls while overseeing finance, HR, and administrative functions. Hono Transport Logistics CC, South Africa 06/2024 – 02/2025 Financial Accountant • Prepared monthly management accounts and annual financial statements in compliance with IFRS and statutory requirements. • Managed accounts payable and receivable, cash flow forecasting, and working capital to support cross-border fleet operations. • Ensured tax compliance across Southern Africa, including VAT, withholding tax, customs duties, and intercompany reconciliations. • Coordinated external audits, monitored operational costs, and strengthened financial controls on trip advances, petty cash, and foreign currency transactions. Grant Thornton Chartered Accountants (ZW), Zimbabwe 01/2021 – 05/2024 Audit Senior Associate • Led external audits for listed and high-profile clients including African Sun Limited, Art Corporation Zimbabwe, Truworths Zimbabwe and Freda Rebecca Gold Mine, identifying key risks, providing solutions to mitigate them and ensuring compliance with IFRS and ISA. • Supervised audit teams, reviewed financial statements, and assessed internal controls and risk management frameworks. • Presented audit findings and recommendations to senior management and boards while maintaining strong client relationships. • Coordinated group audits with cross-border teams and utilized CaseWare Software to enhance audit documentation and reporting efficiency. Bata Shoe Company (ZW), Zimbabwe 04/2018 – 01/2021 Internal Auditor • Planned and conducted internal audits to assess compliance with policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements. • Evaluated financial and operational controls, identified risks, and recommended improvements to strengthen processes and ensure accurate reporting. EDUCATION • Student Member – Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), actively pursuing professional qualification. • Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting, Solusi University, 2018. • A & O Levels: Anderson Adventist High School, 2013 TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT • Professional training in IFRS and ISA, financial modelling, corporate tax compliance, and internal controls. • Skilled in CaseWare audit software, advanced financial analysis, and Microsoft Excel for financial reporting. • Leadership and engagement management training focused on team supervision and audit delivery. REFERENCES