Robert Read Email & Phone Number

Cape Town, WC, ZA

City Of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa

Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa

• Quicket, South Africa's largest ticketing platform with approximately 60% market share, provided seamless solutions for B2B clients like event organizers and venues, as well as B2C ticket buyers. During my tenure, I.
• Increased gross margin by 7%, paving the way for the company’s shift to profitability and readiness for a strategic exit.
• Oversaw triple-digit revenue growth while supporting some of South Africa's largest events and festivals.
• Instituted a robust treasury function to optimise cash flow management, ensuring efficient utilisation of funds and maximizing returns on idle bank balances through effective interest-earning strategies.
• Positioned the company for a strategic acquisition by establishing investor-ready data rooms, optimising financial transparency, and supporting comprehensive due diligence processes by various suitors, ultimately.

Edenvale

• Babcock, the exclusive distributor of Volvo Construction Equipment in Southern Africa, delivered comprehensive support and sales services across the region. As Finance Manager, I oversaw the finances of Babcock’s.
• Delivered record revenue growth during my tenure, reflecting strategic financial oversight and operational excellence.
• Successfully negotiated extended payment terms with key suppliers, significantly enhancing cash flow management and financial stability.
• Facilitated a record number of financed deals by implementing structured finance options in collaboration with banking partners.

Edenvale

As Head of Finance at Liquid Automation Systems (Pty) Ltd ("LAS"), a subsidiary of Sturrock and Robson Industries, I oversaw the full finance function, including the preparation of monthly management accounts, annual budgeting, forecasting, cash flow projections, and tax compliance. Leading a team of 11, I ensured the financial health and operational.

Took 2012 off to travel the world

Johannesburg Area, South Africa

Successful implementation of new accounting packages to various divisions within the company (spanning 4 countries in Africa). Identifying and managing risks associated within each division.

Johannesburg Area, South Africa

Completed my articles at KPMG which included a great overall experience relating to all aspects of an audit. This also included experience relating to all aspects of business performance within the industrial market.

B.Com Accounting (Hons), Accounting And Finance

Activities and Societies: University of Johannesburg hockey team, Res hockey, squash, and volleyball team

Matric

Education record