Financial Controller (Fintech) at Novella Africa

Responsibilities
Strategic Financial Leadership

• Provide strategic financial input to senior management to support decision-making.
• Lead long-term financial planning, scenario modeling, and strategic initiatives aligned with company goals.
• Contribute to the development of financial and operational strategies, KPIs, and performance metrics.
• Drive business growth through data-driven financial insights and alignment of finance with business strategy.
• Lead capital raising efforts and maintain strong relationships with investors and funding partners.
• Prepare investor materials, including pitch decks, financial models, and data rooms.

Financial Strategy, Planning, Analysis & Control

• Develop and execute comprehensive financial strategies to drive profitability and scalability.
• Lead annual and monthly budgeting, forecasting, and financial performance analysis.
• Prepare accurate cash flow forecasts and manage liquidity to meet operational needs.
• Conduct investment analysis and scenario planning to support strategic decision-making.
• Monitor financial goals and track progress against budget and strategic objectives.

Financial Oversight, Controls & Reporting

• Oversee the full financial management lifecycle with strong internal controls and accounting procedures.
• Review and analyze financial scorecards and performance reports monthly, explaining variances and recommending actions.
• Ensure timely and accurate preparation of financial statements (P&L, balance sheet, and cash flow reports).
• Implement financial systems (e.g., ERP, budgeting tools) to improve reporting and operational efficiency.
• Oversee expense management, receivables/payables, daily bank postings, reconciliations, and resolution of open items.
• Collaborate with Product and Engineering to integrate financial considerations into product features.

Risk Management, Regulatory & Tax Compliance

• Identify and assess financial risks and opportunities, proposing mitigation strategies.
• Ensure full transparency and timely communication of potential financial risks.
• Guarantee compliance with statutory regulations (e.g., CBN, FIRS), international financial standards, and licensing requirements.
• Oversee tax filings, statutory reporting, and interface with auditors and regulators.

Treasury & Cash Management

• Manage cash flow, working capital, and liquidity to ensure financial stability and operational effectiveness.
• Optimize bank relationships and cross-border payment flows.
• Develop and maintain cash flow projections and investment strategies aligned with liquidity needs.
• Oversee daily treasury operations, including deposit management and reconciliation processes.

Cross-Business Financial Leadership

• Act as finance lead across multiple business units or subsidiaries, providing financial insights and support.
• Collaborate with business leaders to align financial planning with operational strategies.
• Lead and scale the finance team, ensuring capacity building through coaching and continuous training.

Stakeholder Engagement & Investor Relations

• Foster relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including regulators, auditors, and funding partners.
• Lead investor communications, manage investor data rooms, and support due diligence processes.
• Represent finance in board and executive-level meetings, ensuring alignment on strategic priorities.

Requirements

• ⁠8+ years of experience in financial management.
• Chartered accountant, with a minimum of 2 years as an FC.
• Experience in managing end-to-end financial reporting and strategy.
• Strong analytical and leadership skills.
• ⁠Proficiency in financial software and advanced Excel skills.
• Experience with ERP systems.
• ⁠Knowledge of Nigerian tax laws and financial regulations.
• Big 4 experience is an added advantage.
• Experience in capital market fund raising and debt financing is a plus.