Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)

Recruiter

Fouche & Co Recruitment

Job Ref

DBN000697/SS

Date posted

Thursday, July 23, 2026

Location

Cape Town, South Africa

Salary

Monthly

SUMMARY

Somerset West - Are you a strategic financial and operational leader ready to drive efficiency, growth, and governance within a dynamic industry? Step into a pivotal executive role where your expertise will shape the administrative and financial resilience of an established commercial business.

POSITION INFO

Our client is a well-established and growing business operating within the broader commercial and operational sector, based in Somerset West. The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is a senior executive role reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer. The CAO will provide strategic leadership across finance, administration, human resources, IT, legal compliance, and facilities management to ensure operational excellence and business stability. Key Responsibilities Financial Leadership: Lead strategic financial modelling, budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management while overseeing accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting. Operational Leadership: Lead HR, IT, legal, compliance, and facilities functions; design scalable operational processes; and optimise vendor management and administrative resources. Governance & Risk Management: Maintain internal control frameworks, mitigate operational and financial risks, and serve as the primary liaison for auditors, legal counsel, and banking partners. Executive Partnership: Act as a key strategic adviser to the CEO, delivering data-driven insights and scenario analysis to support high-level business decisions. Departmental Management: Provide direct line management to the Finance, HR, and Inventory Management teams, setting clear KPIs, conducting performance reviews, and mentoring staff. Requirements Education: Matric (Grade 12) required; BCom in Accounting, BAcc, Business Administration, or an MBA preferred. Professional Membership: Registration or affiliation with SAICA, SAIPA, or CIMA is advantageous. Experience: Proven senior leadership experience overseeing cross-functional operations and finance; previous exposure to a manufacturing, production, or warehouse environment is preferred. Skills: Strong expertise in financial reporting, statutory tax compliance, internal controls, and long-range strategic financial planning. Systems: Hands-on experience working with an ERP system. Attributes Strategic, innovative thinker with strong problem-solving abilities. Collaborative leader capable of mentoring, coaching, and developing teams. Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills. Adaptable and resilient in a fast-paced business environment. Salary Negotiable, depending on experience and qualifications. * Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.*