Financial Controller

Role Summary

The Financial Controller will oversee all financial activities of the international trading Group of companies, including budgeting, reporting, cash flow management, trade finance, and compliance with cross-border regulations. The role requires strong experience in export/import operations, currency risk management, and intercompany reconciliations across multiple jurisdictions.

Key Responsibilities

1. Financial Reporting & Control

- Prepare and present monthly Management reporting.

- Ensure timely and accurate closing of books across all legal entities.

- Monitor P&L, balance sheet, and cash flow on a consolidated basis.

- Implement and maintain internal controls to safeguard company assets.

2. Trade & Transaction Finance

- Oversee payment cycles with international suppliers and customers (LCs, TT, CAD, DP).

- Monitor accounts receivable and push for timely collection (e.g., from clients like AGB).

- Manage accounts payable to optimize supplier terms and cash flow.

- Coordinate with banks on trade finance instruments: letters of credit, bank guarantees, forfaiting, factoring.

3. Cash Flow & Treasury Management

- Prepare weekly / monthly cash flow forecasts.

- Manage foreign exchange (FX) exposure and hedging strategies.

- Ensure sufficient liquidity for trading operations (e.g., covering $1.3M advances as needed).

- Optimize working capital (inventory, receivables, payables).

4. Budgeting & Forecasting

- Lead the annual budgeting process and quarterly reforecasts.

- Analyze variance between actual and budgeted performance.

- Provide scenario analysis for new trade deals or market entries.

5. Invoicing & AR Management

- Supervise issuance of sales invoices and credit notes.

- Track unpaid invoices and follow up with clients as needed.

- Maintain a clean aging report and propose provisions for doubtful debts.

- Automate reconciliation and reporting where possible.

Key Requirements

1. Education & Certifications

- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field.

- Professional certification (ACCA, CPA, CIMA, CMA) strongly preferred.

2. Experience

- 5+ years of experience in finance/controlling roles.

- At least 3 years in an international trading, commodities, or export/import company.

Hands-on experience with:

- Letters of Credit (LCs) and documentary collections.

- Cross-border payments and currency controls.

- Intercompany reconciliations and transfer pricing.

- Working capital optimization.

3. Technical Skills

- Advanced Excel and financial modelling.

- Understanding of IFRS and local GAAP.

4. Soft Skills

- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

- Excellent communication in English (additional languages are a plus).

- Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

- Proactive — not just reporting numbers but suggesting actions.