Finance Manager at BlackHouse Media (BHM)

Job Overview

• Are you a highly-skilled, detail-oriented and experienced Finance Professional who can oversee our firms' financial operations, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive financial efficiency and growth? Do you have experience navigating Nigeria's economic operating environment? 
• Are you interested in pursuing or continuing a career at the intersection of communications and consulting, media and marketing, technology and creativity? Would you consider an opportunity to be part of an organisation building Africa's first global communications services company? 
• If your answer to all of the above is 'nah, not me', we thank you for reading this far. You may leave now and consider forwarding to anyone you know who fits the bill. 
• But if you can answer yes to some or all of the above, then it may be you we've been looking for. We want you!
• We are a fast-growing African consultancy seeking a Finance Manager to manage ur finance-and-related services team and execute our ambition to become the number one company of choice on the continent and beyond for professionals who want to put themselves and their continent on the map for good.  
• We put people before profit and want you to help us institutionalise this ethos while creating a dynamic, engaging and inclusive workplace that fosters excellence and innovation for the benefit of colleagues, clients, and shareholders.
• As a Finance Manager, you will help to develop and execute a strong and tested finance strategy to support our overall business objectives by ensuring efficiency and compliance with financial regulations. In addition, you will work closely with the finance team, as well as the Chief Finance Officer, to translate our strategic goals into effective finance initiatives that will help us grow and succeed in a rapidly changing market.

Key areas of responsibility for the role will include:

Financial Planning and Analysis

• Collaborating with the CFO and senior management to develop financial strategies and long-term financial plans in alignment with firm objectives.
• Preparing and analysing financial statements, budgets, and forecasts, providing insights and recommendations to support decision-making.
• Monitoring financial performance, identifying areas of improvement, and implementing corrective actions.

Financial Reporting and Compliance

• Ensuring timely and accurate preparation of financial reports, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, adhering to Nigerian accounting standards and regulatory requirements.
• Managing statutory reporting and compliance with tax laws, including VAT, withholding taxes, and other relevant regulations.
• Liaising with external auditors and regulatory bodies, ensuring smooth audits and maintaining compliance with local laws and regulations.

Financial Operations Management

• Overseeing day-to-day financial operations, including local and  international currency transactions, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger activities;
• Developing and implementing financial policies, procedures, and controls to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.
• Optimising financial processes, leveraging technology solutions where applicable, streamlining operations and improving productivity.

Cash Flow and Treasury Management

• Managing cash flow forecasting, monitoring liquidity, and optimising working capital suitable for operating in the local environment. 
• Coordinating banking relationships, including foreign currency transactions and compliance with local banking regulations.
• Implementing effective cash management strategies to maximise returns on investments.

Financial Analysis and Risk Management

• Conducting financial analysis, including profitability analysis, cost control, and variance analysis, to identify trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Assessing and managing financial risks within the Nigerian business context, such as foreign exchange, interest rate, and credit risks;
• Providing financial insights and recommendations to support strategic decision-making and drive business growth.

Person Specification

Educational Qualifications/ Professional Certifications:

• Tertiary education (e.g. Higher Diploma, Bachelor's) in finance, accounting, or a related field is required. 
• A professional accounting qualification such as ACA, ACCA, or ICAN is strongly preferred. Familiarity with Nigerian accounting standards is necessary.

Years of Experience:

• 5-7 years of relevant finance experience, including experience in financial management, financial planning and analysis, and financial operations. 
• Experience in the public relations or communications consulting industry in Nigeria is advantageous.

Required Skills and Aptitudes:

• Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting standards, and tax regulations;
• Proficiency in financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting processes within the Nigerian business landscape;
• Excellent financial analysis and interpretation skills, with the ability to provide meaningful insights and recommendations;
• Sound understanding of financial operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger activities;
• Familiarity with Nigerian cash flow management, working capital optimisation, and treasury functions;
• Proficiency in using financial management software such as QuickBooks, Mint, etc. Also able to use Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel;
• Excellent attention to detail, accuracy, and ability to meet deadlines within the Nigerian operating environment;
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with stakeholders at all levels;
• Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and handle multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment;
• High level of integrity and ethical conduct, ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations.
• Note: This job description outlines the general responsibilities and qualifications for the Finance Manager position at our Public Relations or Communications Consulting company based in Nigeria. It takes into account Nigeria.