Nicol Pillay
@nicolpillay
Experienced finance manager with a proven track record in banking.
What I'm looking for
I am a senior finance professional with over 14 years of expertise in financial reporting, cost accounting, auditing, and strategic analysis. My career has been marked by a proven ability to deliver precise financial insights, optimize cost structures, and support high-impact decision-making. I have led cross-functional teams to drive financial process optimization through clear, data-driven insights, and developed profitability models and cost-saving initiatives that have contributed to major digital payment projects.
Throughout my career, I have been recognized for my strong financial governance, stakeholder collaboration, and performance-driven leadership. I have successfully managed financial operations for high-volume digital payment streams, ensuring compliance and accuracy in reporting. My experience includes developing strategic business cases, enhancing costing methodologies, and acting as a trusted business partner to internal and external departments. I am currently exploring opportunities that align with my professional expertise and support long-term career growth.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Financial Manager (C2) – EFT Product House
First National Bank
Apr 2021 - Present (4 years 3 months)
Managed financial operations for the EFT business unit, including reporting cycles, budgeting, and internal controls across high-volume digital payment streams. Developed and implemented the business unit scorecard, aligning Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) with organizational goals and tracking performance across operational teams.
Financial Manager (C1) – EFT Product House
First National Bank
Sep 2019 - Mar 2021 (1 year 6 months)
Prepared the monthly CEO Report, ensuring accuracy and strategic alignment. Collaborated with Financial Operations and Risk teams to oversee suspense, clearing, and bank account reconciliations, strengthening governance and financial accuracy.
Financial Manager (C1) – Contact Centre
First National Bank
Aug 2015 - Aug 2019 (4 years)
Held full accountability for financial management of the FNB Contact Centre, overseeing reporting, budgeting, and forecasting for one of the bank’s largest operational environments. Introduced and led the implementation of a client profitability model, enabling evaluation of product performance and sales campaigns across multiple channels.
Cost Accountant – Central Finance (COSTEC)
First National Bank
May 2013 - Jul 2015 (2 years 2 months)
Ran the budget process for all costing models, therefore ensuring the accurate calculations of Service Delivery Agreement (SLA) chargeouts within tight deadlines. Produced charge-outs and unit rate calculations based on operational volumes, enabling transparent cost attribution and forecasting accuracy.
Article Clerk
PKF Chartered Accountants and Advisors
Feb 2010 - Feb 2013 (3 years)
Led statutory audits across various sectors, including manufacturing, education, logistics, and hospitality. Drafted IFRS-compliant financial statements, management letters, and audit reports while mentoring junior staff.
Accounts Administration
Bayside Hotel and Management
Jun 2009 - Nov 2009 (5 months)
Managed daily sales journal entries, tenant invoicing, and reconciliations across multiple hotel entities. Maintained documentation controls and processed payments through online banking platforms.
Data Capturer
Integrated Processing Solutions (IPS)
Feb 2005 - Jun 2009 (4 years 4 months)
Supported banking operations through accurate batch processing and cheque data capture for Absa and Standard Bank clients. Ensured high levels of data integrity and efficiency in financial transactions.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)
Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA), Management Accounting
Obtained the Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) designation from the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). This certification signifies expertise in management accounting, financial strategy, and business leadership.
University of South Africa
Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Accounting Science (Honours), Applied Accounting Science
Grade: Honours
Completed a Postgraduate Diploma with Honours, focusing on advanced topics in Applied Financial Accounting, Taxation, Management Accounting, and Auditing. This program deepened understanding of complex accounting principles and practices.
Arena Park Secondary School
National Senior Certificate (Grade 12), General Studies
Grade: Merit Exemption
Achieved a National Senior Certificate with Merit Exemption, demonstrating strong academic performance in core subjects. Key subjects included English, Afrikaans, Mathematics, Physical Science, Biology, and Accounting.
University of South Africa
Bachelor of Accounting Science (BCompt), Accounting Science
Earned a Bachelor of Accounting Science degree with majors in Accounting and Auditing. The curriculum provided a strong foundation in financial principles, auditing standards, and business operations.
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
Job categories
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