At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and planning for a growing agribusiness in East Africa.
- Company: Watson and Fine Tanzania Ltd, part of a UK-headquartered agribusiness group.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, benefits package, and impactful leadership role.
- Other info: Hybrid work environment with regular travel to Tanzania required.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in food security and sustainable farming across Tanzania.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with 10+ years finance experience, preferably in agriculture.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 110000 £ per year.
About Watson and Fine Tanzania Ltd
Watson and Fine Tanzania Ltd is part of the Watson & Fine Group, a UK-headquartered agribusiness building an integrated farm-to-consumer operation in East Africa. Our Tanzanian business includes owned farmland and cashew forests in the Lindi region, a growing outgrower network, and food processing development, with a focus on food security, sustainable farming and supporting local communities. As we scale, we are looking for an experienced Chief Financial Officer to lead our financial strategy and help turn our growth plans into a sustainable, investable business.
The Role
Reporting to the CEO and Board, the CFO will lead all aspects of financial planning, forecasting, reporting and funding for Watson and Fine Tanzania Ltd. You will bring hands-on experience in large-scale agriculture and food manufacturing in East Africa, and be confident building business plans and agricultural forecasts that stand up to scrutiny from boards, lenders and investors. This role does not need to be based in Tanzania, but regular travel to our operations is required.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and own the company's business plans, budgets and long-term financial models
- Build accurate agricultural forecasts covering crop yields, procurement volumes, processing output and sales, accounting for seasonality, weather and market prices
- Work closely with agronomy, operations and procurement teams to turn field data into reliable financial projections
- Prepare investment cases for farm expansion, processing facilities and new markets
- Oversee accounting, reporting, tax, audit and compliance in line with IFRS and Tanzanian regulations
- Manage cash flow and seasonal working capital, particularly around harvest and procurement cycles
- Manage foreign exchange, commodity price and credit risk
- Lead relationships with banks, investors, development finance institutions and trade finance providers
- Present clear financial reporting and insight to the CEO, Board and group leadership
- Build and lead a capable finance team and strengthen financial systems and controls
What We're Looking For
- Qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ACA, CPA or equivalent); MBA desirable
- 10+ years of finance experience, including 5+ years as CFO, Finance Director or similar
- Proven experience in large-scale agricultural companies and food manufacturing or processing facilities in East Africa
- Strong track record in business planning, financial modelling and agricultural forecasting
- Experience raising and managing debt, equity or DFI funding
- Good understanding of the Tanzanian and wider East African tax, regulatory and business environment
- Clear communicator, comfortable presenting to boards and non-finance colleagues
- Willing to travel regularly to Tanzania
Advantageous
- Experience in the cashew and/or sesame value chains, including sourcing, processing, export and pricing
- Knowledge of Tanzania's warehouse receipt system and crop auction processes
- Experience with outgrower and smallholder sourcing models
- Background in export-focused agribusiness and international trade finance
- Understanding of ESG and certification standards required by international food buyers
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- A senior leadership role in a fast-growing agribusiness with real impact across Tanzania and East Africa
Chief Financial Officer in Leicester employer: Watson And Fine
Watson and Fine Tanzania Ltd is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead financial strategy in a fast-growing agribusiness that prioritises food security and sustainable farming. With a competitive salary and benefits package, a hybrid work environment, and the chance to make a tangible impact in East Africa, employees can expect a supportive culture that fosters professional growth and collaboration across diverse teams. Regular travel to our operations ensures that you remain connected to the heart of our mission while developing your career in a meaningful way.
