Archbold Dirorimwe, Finance Manager
Finance Manager
Current Experience:
Finance Manager at The Falkland Islands Company · Full-time Jan 2025 - Present · (9 mos)
Past Experience:
Corporate Treasurer at Sign Edition (Pty) Ltd Full-time Jan 2023 - Jan 2025 · (2 yrs 1 mo)
Finance Manager at Sign Edition (Pty) Ltd Sep 2015 - Dec 2022 (7 Yrs 4 mos)
Accountant at Sound Mining - Mining Consultancy | Geological Exploration | Mine Design | ESG Oct 2013 - Aug 2015 · (1 yr 11 mos)
Credit Controller / Accountant at ALL Joy Foods 2009 - 2013 · (4 yrs)
Finance Manager at Hatnoon Milling Aug 2008 - Dec 2009 · (1 yr 5 mos)
Qualifications:
Master of Business Administration
ACCA, Accounting and Finance
Country of Residence:
South Africa
LinkedIn Profile:
Archbold Dirorimwe isn’t just a Finance Manager, he’s a systems builder, strategist, and mentor.
From redesigning stock control systems on a shoestring budget to mentoring rising talent through real-world finance, Archbold turns every challenge into an opportunity to lead. He brings structure where there’s chaos, clarity where there’s pressure, and still makes time to sing, hike, and share his knowledge with others.
This is what it looks like when accounting becomes a force for transformation.
What time do you usually wake up on weekends?
06:00 AM
Are you an early bird or a night owl?
Early Bird
How do you spend the first hour of your day?
I usually start my mornings by planning out my day and taking some time to meditate.
What sparked your interest in accounting or finance?
Back in high school in Zimbabwe, students were grouped by ability, and from Form 3 (Grade 10) we could specialize in different streams like sciences or commerce. I was placed in the commerce class, where accounting and typing were core subjects. That’s where my interest in accounting really began.
I was also fortunate to have a close friend studying commercial subjects at an advanced level. He took the time to mentor me, helping me understand difficult concepts and sparking my enthusiasm for the field. His guidance had a big impact on my journey, and he’s still someone I turn to today for advice and perspective.
Can you share some key career milestones or defining moments?
Gained core accounting and finance experience at BOC Gases Zimbabwe and BDO Chartered Accountants.
Completed the CIS Intermediate Certificate and Diploma in Business Studies.
Advanced through finance roles at Hatnoon Milling, AH Vest Ltd, and Sound Mining Solutions.
Took on managerial responsibilities for reporting, budgeting, taxation, and stock control.
Introduced stronger financial controls and efficiency measures.
As Finance Lead at Sign Edition (Pty) Ltd, Johannesburg, secured multi-million rand funding and improved reporting systems.
Implemented advanced forecasting and long-term financial strategies.
Served as Finance Manager at the Falkland Islands Company, overseeing multiple business units.
Strengthened compliance, stakeholder relations, and international audit processes.
ACCA Diplomas in Accounting & Business; MBA, University of East London, UK.
ACCA Professional Certificates in governance, reporting, analysis, and advanced finance.
Awarded Chartered Fellow status with ACCA, affirming senior professional standing.
What is your role within your company’s finance department?
I am a finance Manager
How do you contribute to the overall financial strategy of the business?
I contribute by actively forecasting and managing cash flow across the business, ensuring liquidity needs are met while aligning financial planning with long-term growth. I also make sure the company complies with all statutory and regulatory requirements, protecting its financial integrity and reducing risk.
On top of that, I focus on building strong internal controls and refining financial processes to improve accuracy, transparency, and efficiency in operations.
What is one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your role? How did you overcome it?
One of the biggest challenges I faced was designing and implementing a reliable stock control and purchasing system with very limited resources. To tackle this, I reviewed available market solutions to see what could work, but most weren’t feasible within our budget. Instead, we built and rolled out our own in-house system, which turned out to be both efficient and cost-effective.
What tools or strategies do you use to manage the financial operations of the company effectively?
I use Power BI to build comprehensive dashboards that give a clear view of the entire business. Its analytics help me track trends and make well-informed decisions. I also take a holistic approach to financial strategy by working closely with different departments, breaking down silos, and improving overall efficiency.
Share your strategies for staying balanced, especially during busy periods.
I stay balanced by prioritizing tasks effectively and putting in extra effort when necessary, while also delegating responsibilities wisely. I make sure to align tasks with each team member’s strengths, which helps get work done efficiently, reduces rework, and keeps overall productivity high.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy hiking and singing, which help me relax and recharge.
Do you mentor or support other team members in the finance department?
Yes, I actively mentor and support my team. I explain financial concepts by connecting them to practical examples, making them easier to understand. I encourage questions and create an open learning environment, introducing new concepts gradually so team members can build confidence as they progress.
I also make it clear that I don’t have all the answers, and I welcome discussion and challenges. I emphasize the importance of combining study with hands-on experience to strengthen their skills and encourage them to read widely to broaden their perspectives and deepen their understanding.
What advice would you give to someone aspiring to work in a finance department?
For anyone aspiring to work in a finance department, strong accounting and math skills are essential, despite common misconceptions, a solid grasp of mathematics is critical for success. A good understanding of core business principles is also important, regardless of your entry level. Continuous learning matters: those with diplomas should consider advancing to degrees, and degree holders might explore Master’s programs.
Joining a professional organization is highly beneficial, as it promotes accountability, keeps you updated on industry developments, and provides opportunities to connect with mentors and peers for guidance and growth.
Above all, resilience is key. As Winston Churchill said, ‘Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.’ Perseverance and determination are what truly drive long-term success in finance.
“The main function of education is to teach one to think sensibly and critically. It is not about acquiring knowledge, but about fostering the ability to think, question, and understand. Intelligence combined with character - that is the ultimate goal of a true education.
- Sir Ken Robinson”
Share a leadership lesson or a piece of advice that’s been valuable to you in your career
Always have a trusted mentor, someone you respect and can turn to for guidance.
Building meaningful professional relationships often starts right in your workplace. Many people think networking only happens online, but cultivating strong, genuine connections with colleagues is crucial for long-term growth. Attending industry events and engaging with professional bodies can also help expand your network and open new opportunities.
Above all, integrity is invaluable. As Sir Ken Robinson said, ‘Character is a fundamental part of education,’ and I believe it’s equally essential in the workplace
What’s something surprising about you that isn’t in your professional bio?
I’ve recorded and produced music, and I’ve even had the chance to share the stage with world-renowned musicians.
If you could have any superpower to help you in your job, what would it be?
I’d choose the ability to predict financial trends.
What’s your go-to strategy for staying productive during long workdays?
I stay productive during long workdays by celebrating small wins along the way.
If you could relive one day from your career, which day would it be and why?
The first day I joined BOC Gases was a turning point in my career. It was my first time working for a global corporation, and it completely changed how I viewed the professional world.
Archbold’s story is proof: leadership in finance isn’t about titles, it’s about trust, strategy, and service.
Want to position yourself as more than just the “numbers person”?
Join CIBA and we’ll show you how to lead with confidence, add real value, and grow your influence.
Profile sponsored by the Chartered Institute for Business Accountants
Not yet a professional designated accountant?
CIBA is the professional body for all accountants.
We offer designations for each stage of your finance career:
➥ Bookkeeper
➥ Financial Administrator
➥ Financial Accountant
➥ Financial Manager
➥ Chief Financial Officer
➥ Accountant-In-Practice
Become a CIBA Member
Your first step towards a professional designation
