Position Description

The Financial Controller will oversee all financial operations, accounting practices, budgeting, and financial planning of the country operation. This role ensures financial compliance, accurate reporting, and strategic insights to drive financial performance in alignment with corporate objectives. Working closely with global finance teams, the Financial Controller plays a key role in financial decision-making, risk management, and supporting the strategic growth of the business in an emerging market environment.

The Finance Controller is a key member of the country management team and involves two-fold responsibilities: operationally supporting the country Managing Director to deliver financial targets sustainably and functionally reporting to the Group Financial Controller.

Responsibilities

Roles & Responsibilities

Financial Reporting and Compliance

• Oversee accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and year-end financial reporting in compliance with IFRS.
• Ensure adherence to local regulatory and tax requirements, managing relationships with auditors, tax advisors, and regulatory bodies.
• Develop and implement internal controls, policies, and procedures to mitigate financial risks and safeguard assets.
• Monitor all balance sheet and income statement account movements and ensure that they reflect the correct balances, all relevant account reconciliations are performed, and corrective actions are taken meticulously.

Budgeting and Forecasting

• Lead annual budgeting and quarterly forecasting processes, providing financial insight and analysis to aid in strategic planning.
• Track performance against budget and forecast, analyzing variances and identifying areas for improvement.
• Provide monthly and quarterly financial reports to country management and corporate teams, ensuring clarity on business performance.

Financial Strategy and Business Partnering

• Collaborate with country management and operations teams to provide financial guidance, scenario analysis, and support for strategic initiatives.
• Partner with sales, operations, and other departments to improve profitability, monitor cost structures, and evaluate new business opportunities.
• Provide financial analysis and recommendations on capital expenditures, investments, and growth initiatives

Cash Flow and Working Capital Management

• Monitor cash flow and working capital to optimize liquidity and funding needs, ensuring the business meets its financial obligations.
• Oversee accounts receivable, accounts payable, and inventory management to ensure effective cash cycle management.
• Coordinate with corporate treasury to ensure adequate funding and efficient use of company resources

Risk Management and Control

• Identify and evaluate financial risks, implementing necessary mitigation strategies to ensure business continuity.
• Ensure effective internal controls and procedures are in place, coordinating with internal audit functions and supporting process improvements..
• Capital management, ensuring the country operation is optimally capitalized and foreign exchange risk mitigated.

Process Improvement and Systems Optimization

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within finance functions, optimizing financial systems and processes for accuracy, efficiency, and scalability.
• Support implementation and upgrade of ERP systems and other financial tools as needed, collaborating with IT and other departments.
• Lead the implementation of new accounting standards and group accounting policies within the country.

Stakeholder Communication and Reporting

• Serve as the primary finance liaison to corporate headquarters, country management, and external partners (Bankers and Lenders).
• Prepare and present financial information to country management, corporate finance teams, and investors as required.
• Keep stakeholders informed of any significant financial developments or challenges impacting the business.

People Management

• Lead and mentor a team of finance professionals, fostering a culture of high performance, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct performance reviews, set individual and team objectives, and support professional development through training and mentorship
• Uphold our i.HOPE values.

Requirements

Qualifications

This role is ideal for a seasoned finance professional who thrives in a hands-on, entrepreneurial environment and is committed to driving financial excellence and supporting strategic growth in an emerging market.

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field; CPA, ACCA, or equivalent certification.
• Minimum of 8+ years of financial management experience five years at the senior management level, in an operation that has a minimum of $25m annual revenue.
• Big Four experience a distinct advantage
• Deep knowledge of IFRS and financial reporting standards.
• Good understanding of Country Taxation Legislation
• Proficiency in financial software, ERP systems, and data analysis tools.
• Advanced Excel skills for financial modeling and analysis.

Skills and Competencies

• Analytical and Strategic Thinking: Able to analyze complex financial data and provide actionable insights that drive decision-making.
• Leadership and People Management: Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop high-performing teams in dynamic environments.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Adaptability and Resilience: Comfortable working in a fast-paced and changing environment with a proactive and flexible approach to challenges.
• Attention to Detail: High degree of accuracy in work and ability to review details