Position Summary / Job Brief:
Our company is seeking a skilled Financial Controller to oversee and manage all financial activities for our office in Abidjan. The role involves ensuring accurate financial reporting, managing cash flow, overseeing internal controls, and supporting financial strategy and planning. The ideal candidate will have strong financial expertise, attention to detail, and experience in managing financial operations in a project-based environment.
Required Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
A Master’s degree or professional certifications such as CPA, ACCA, or equivalent is a plus.
Required Experience & Certificates:
Minimum of 5 years of experience in a financial control or accounting role, with at least 2 years in a managerial position. Experience in the project management, engineering, or consultancy services industries is highly desirable.
Required Skills:
-Strong understanding of financial accounting, financial reporting, and financial analysis.
-Advanced knowledge of Excel and proficiency with financial management software or ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics).
-Familiarity with financial regulations, tax laws, and compliance requirements in Ivory Coast and internationally.
-Excellent analytical abilities with a keen eye for detail.
-Strong verbal and written communication skills.
-Proven experience leading and mentoring teams.
-Fluency in French (written and spoken) is required; proficiency in English is a plus.
Tasks and Duties:
-Lead the preparation of financial forecasts, budgets, and financial reporting. Analyze financial performance against the budget and provide insights to management to guide decision-making.
-Oversee the company’s accounting operations, ensuring that financial transactions are processed accurately and in compliance with accounting principles, policies, and regulations.
-Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements (Income Statement, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow). Ensure timely and accurate submission of financial reports to management and stakeholders.
-Develop, implement, and maintain internal controls to safeguard the company’s financial assets. Ensure that the company adheres to all local and international regulatory requirements.
-Coordinate with external auditors during audits, preparing necessary documentation and resolving any audit issues that may arise.
-Monitor and manage cash flow, ensuring the business has the liquidity needed for day-to-day operations and project funding.
-Work with project managers and department heads to control and reduce costs. Analyze variances in project financial performance and identify areas for improvement.
-Ensure compliance with local tax laws and regulations. Oversee the preparation and filing of tax returns and manage relations with tax authorities.
-Identify financial risks and provide strategies to mitigate them. Develop financial forecasts to anticipate potential issues and inform management decisions.
-Manage and mentor a small team of finance professionals. Provide guidance, training, and development opportunities to ensure the team’s growth and effectiveness.
-Communicate financial performance and updates to senior management, providing strategic recommendations for business growth and efficiency.
-Oversee and ensure the effective use of the company’s financial management software (ERP system), ensuring accuracy and efficiency in financial processes.