Financial Control Lead at The People Practice

Our client, an online store for construction materials, is looking to hire a Finance Control Lead who will be responsible for managing all aspects of financial control, reporting, compliance, and risk management. This role is key in ensuring that the company’s financial operations are efficient, aligned with regulatory standards, and conducive to the overall strategic goals of the organization. The successful candidate will act as a financial steward, driving process improvements, financial integrity, and controls across all business operations in Africa.

Responsibilities

Financial Control and Reporting

• Oversee and lead the preparation of accurate financial reports, ensuring compliance with IFRS/GAAP and company policies.
• Manage monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting processes, including consolidation of financial statements for multiple business units.
• Ensure the timely and accurate submission of statutory financial reports.
• Provide strategic financial insights by analyzing financial results and identifying trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.

Internal Controls

• Develop, implement, and monitor internal financial controls, ensuring robust processes to safeguard company assets.
• Conduct regular reviews of financial processes to ensure compliance and recommend changes for efficiency and improvement.
• Lead the internal audit process and liaise with external auditors to ensure regulatory and compliance standards are met.

Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with local tax laws, corporate governance regulations, and other relevant legal requirements across all African regions.
• Identify, evaluate, and manage financial risks, implementing mitigation strategies where necessary.
• Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of changes in legislation and accounting standards that impact the company’s operations in Africa.

Budgeting and Forecasting

• Lead the annual budgeting and forecasting processes in collaboration with regional finance teams.
• Provide detailed analysis and insights into variances between actual results and budgeted projections.
• Ensure that financial plans are aligned with the organization’s strategic objectives.

Treasury and Cash Flow Management

• Oversee cash flow planning, ensuring the availability of funds to meet operational needs.
• Manage relationships with banking partners, ensuring optimal cash management and investment strategies.

Team Leadership

• Lead and mentor a team of finance professionals, providing direction, support, and development opportunities.
• Foster a high-performance culture by driving continuous improvement and promoting best practices across the finance team.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with senior leadership and other departments to provide financial insights and recommendations for key business decisions.
• Present financial results and forecasts to the Board of Directors, shareholders, and other key stakeholders.
• Act as the primary point of contact for external auditors, regulatory bodies, and tax authorities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. MBA or professional qualifications (e.g., ACCA, ICAN, CPA) are highly desirable.
• Minimum of 4-5 years of progressive experience in financial control, auditing, or financial management, preferably in a multinational organization.
• Proven leadership experience, with the ability to mentor and inspire a finance team.
• Proficient in financial management software (e.g., Zoho) and advanced Excel skills.

Must have skills

• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial data and make strategic recommendations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders
• Strong focus on accuracy and detail, ensuring compliance and precision in all financial reporting activities
• Knowledge of the African business landscape and the ability to navigate financial and regulatory complexities in different regions.
• Experience in a growth-stage company or in driving the implementation of new financial systems and processes.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively in a culturally diverse environment.