GROUP HEAD OF FINANCE

Job Summary

To support the Group CFO in managing, directing and implementing financial strategies, financial accounting functions, financial reporting, forecasting, budgetary controls and maintaining the financial health of the business. Oversees the financial operations of the business ensuring financial stability and compliance with accounting standards and regulations, under Reporting, Tax, Procurement and Financial Control.

Job Details

Knowledge

• At least 15 years of experience in a finance function within the financial services industry.
• At least 5 years in a senior management role.
• Experience in Group financial reporting environment and consolidations.
• Strong working knowledge of Finance risks and related internal controls, 
• Strong on international Accounting standards.
• Demonstrated history of solving multiple and complex operational and reporting challenges.
• Risk Management and Governance.
• Knowledge on capital management. 

Skills

• Excellent leadership skills in building, developing and managing a high performing team.
• Strong data analytical skills.
• Excellent problem-solving skills (i.e. problem definition & structuring, analysis definition, insight generation & recommendation generation) and strong ability to analyse and interpret financial information.
• Excellent strategic thinking capabilities backed by strong analytical capabilities and ability to think systemically across all operations.
• Excellent communication skills especially with top management and other stakeholders.
• Excelled financial planning and analysis – hands on experience with complex group consolidation.
• Ability to supervise and manage multiple projects and teams at the same time
• Strong understanding of accounting standards and technical accounting.
• Possess excellent interpersonal, communication and presentation skills
• Resilience, Composure, and the ability to work under pressure and tight deadlines.
• Technology & System Proficiency - Proficient in the use of financial management and accounting software.
• Judgement and decision-making ability under ambiguity.
• Integrity and Unquestionable ethics. 
• Ability to work in a matrix reporting environment.

Critical Deliverables /Core Accountabilities and Responsibilities

• Develops financial strategies, budgets, and forecasts to support the organization's goals and objectives.
• Ensures accurate and timely financial reporting, including the preparation of financial statements, management reports, annual reports, Board reports, shareholders reports and regulatory filings
• Managing the organization's balance sheet against KPIs set for the Group.
• Working with the Group Treasurer on treasury Management, including cash flow management, achieving optimum of debt levels managing the business’ cash flow, liquidity, and capital structure.
• Budgeting, and financial risk assessment.
• Monitoring financial performance, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing strategies to optimise financial outcomes
• Establishing and maintaining strong financial controls and internal processes to safeguard assets, prevent fraud, and ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and accounting standards
• Providing financial insights and analysis to support strategic decision-making by the executive team and board of directors such as evaluating investment opportunities, assessing the financial impact of business initiatives, and advising on potential risks and opportunities.
• Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders, such as executives, investors, auditors, and regulatory bodies, to address financial concerns, provide accurate financial information, and ensure transparency and accountability.
• Optimising working capital, overseeing banking relationships and making strategic decisions regarding financing, investments, and risk management.
• Leading and developing the finance team, providing guidance, mentoring, and fostering a high-performance culture.

Key Performance Indicators

• Accuracy and timeliness of Financial reports, with in-depth analysis.
• Adherence to the Budgeting cycle.
• Strong financial controls .
• Budget compliance/ Positive Budget variances/ Cost savings.
• Tax savings.
• Risk management – Finance and Capital Risk Management including effectiveness of debt levels, credit ratings, liquidity ratios, and insurance coverage
• Regulatory compliance with accounting standards, effectiveness of internal controls and governance.

Complexity of the Role

• Ability to balance strategic thinking with operational execution, effectively manage financial resources and risks, ensure compliance with regulations, provide accurate and insightful financial reporting, and collaborate with various stakeholders.
• Strong analytical, communication, leadership, and financial management skills to address the diverse responsibilities and challenges within the finance function..
• Multi-cultural awareness and the ability to interact with a wide range of differing levels in the Group, government, society and business in general. 

Requirements

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and/or Accounting
• Professional qualification – Chartered accountant ACCA/CIMA/CPA/ACA
• Master’s in Business Administration would be an added advantage

Certifications

Member in good standing of a relevant professional body