John Williams Email & Phone Number

Bryanston, Gauteng, Za

While leading the finance function for Halls, my day-to-day responsibilities include the following:My inclusive expertise in finance empowers me to effectively lead end-to-end operations including Group consolidation results, treasury across multiple jurisdictions, capital structure, debt funding, exchange control compliance, and cash flow/working capital requirements. I am able to drive informed decision-making by delivering comprehensive financial reports to the Group Managing Director and stakeholders. I also coordinate with stakeholders including auditors, lawyers, bankers, insurance brokers, and external advisors to accomplish all set deliverables. I function as a non-executive director on various Group entities. By attending various subsidiary/associate investment committee meetings, I keep up with the latest investment strategies.Some of my key accomplishments associated with this job role include:• Improved group efficiencies by introducing corporate restructuring.• Kickstarted implementation of sustainability and ESG reporting across all entities.• Optimised tax planning and structuring while overseeing reporting and compliance.• Implemented risk management profile and elevated risk management to a value-adding process.• Play a pivotal role in the Human Capital Forum comprised of Heads of People from all operating entities.• Administered overhaul of banking facilities and introduction of innovative cross-border working capital solution.• Spearheaded effective financial controls, improved budgeting processes, deployed appropriate prudence, and optimised cash holdings while functioning in Covid-19 pandemic.

Bryanston, Gauteng, Za

For Halls, during this time period, I performed as Group Chief Strategic Officer, and my responsibilities included the development of an appropriate capital allocation framework and integrated throughout the Group. I also functioned as a non-executive director on various Group entities as well as attended all various subsidiary/associate investment committee meetings.My signature achievements were the following:• Championed Group strategic direction incorporating all aspects of Halls Group.• Accelerated due diligence and approval processes by analysing possible acquisitions for strategic fit.• Augmented business development/growth by formulating improved reporting efficiencies for governance processes.

Centurion, Gauteng, Za

During my tenure as a Group Chief Financial Officer in Lightstone (a subsidiary of Halls Group), I finalized multiple tasks related to finance function including managing Group consolidation results. I coordinated all budgeting processes, monthly accounts management reviews, and presented results to the executive committee and board. My managerial skills enabled me to effectively streamline all day-to-day operations while managing employee benefits. I also executed day-to-day secretarial functions.I served as non-executive director roles on Group subsidiary entities.Below are my notable accomplishments:• Led cash collection of outstanding debtors' books and working capital optimisation.• Slashed cost by effectively managing overheads while employing target-focused strategies.• Maximised client retention through relationship management of key clients such as Investec.• Successfully directed M&A activities and corporate restructuring leading to significant growth in Group.• Secured digital infrastructure by managing hardware/software architecture, data security, and network stability.I have rich additional experience as Senior Manager in CEO’s office, KPMG Inc., as a Manager and Assistant Manager in KPMG Inc. and I was also an Audit Trainee in KPMG Inc. These were all great opportunities for me to accelerate my career growth.

Chartered Accountant

Pgda, Accounting

B. Comm Business Management, Economics; Marketing Management