Chief Financial Officer

Job Purpose:

The CFO will be responsible for the overall financial health and strategic financial direction of the Group. This role will ensure financial stability, sustainable growth, and effective resource allocation across the Group's diverse portfolio of businesses.  The CFO will act as a key strategic advisor to the CEO and the Board of Directors, providing insights and recommendations to optimize financial performance and drive shareholder value.

Core Responsibilities:

Leadership Core Responsibilities:

Financial Vision & Strategy:

• Develop and implement the Group's overall financial strategy, aligning it with the long-term business objectives.
• Provide financial leadership and guidance to the various business units within the Group.
• Identify and evaluate potential investment opportunities and strategic partnerships.
• Lead the financial planning and forecasting process, ensuring accuracy and alignment with strategic goals.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Lead, mentor, and develop the finance team, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Set clear performance expectations and provide regular feedback and coaching.
• Identify and address skill gaps within the finance team, providing training and development opportunities.
• Promote a collaborative and supportive work environment within the finance function.

Stakeholder Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including the Board of Directors, investors, and financial institutions.
• Communicate the Group's financial performance and outlook effectively to stakeholders.
• Provide transparent and accurate financial reporting, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Act as a trusted advisor to the CEO and the Board on financial matters.

Change Management:

• Lead and manage financial transformation initiatives, such as implementing new financial systems or processes.
• Drive continuous improvement in financial operations, seeking opportunities for efficiency and cost optimization.
• Foster a culture of innovation and adaptability within the finance function.
• Effectively communicate changes and manage stakeholder expectations.

Operational Core Responsibilities:

Financial Advisory:

• Provide strategic financial advice to the CEO, Board of Directors, and senior management on a wide range of financial matters, including capital budgeting, M&A transactions, and investment opportunities.
• Conduct in-depth financial analysis and due diligence to support investment decisions and M&A transactions.
• Develop and present financial models and projections to assess the financial viability of various strategic initiatives.
• Advise on optimal capital structure and financing strategies to maximize shareholder value.
• Stay abreast of current financial trends, regulations, and best practices to ensure the Group's financial strategies are aligned with industry standards.

Funds Raising:

• Develop and execute fundraising strategies to secure necessary capital for the Group's operations and strategic initiatives.
• Identify and evaluate potential funding sources, including debt financing, equity financing, and strategic partnerships.
• Prepare and present compelling investment pitches and business plans to potential investors and lenders.
• Negotiate deal terms and structure financing agreements to optimize terms and conditions.
• Manage relationships with existing and potential investors and lenders.
• Oversee the due diligence process for fundraising activities.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable securities laws and regulations related to fundraising.

Financial Reporting & Compliance:

• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting, in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and other applicable regulations.
• Oversee the internal control framework to safeguard assets and prevent fraud.
• Manage the annual audit process and liaise with external auditors.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant tax laws and regulations.

Treasury & Cash Management:

• Manage the Group's cash flow, ensuring sufficient liquidity to meet operational needs.
• Develop and implement cash management strategies to optimize returns on investments.
• Manage relationships with banks and other financial institutions.
• Oversee the Group's foreign exchange exposure and manage hedging strategies.

Risk Management:

• Identify and assess key financial risks facing the Group.
• Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies.
• Monitor and report on financial risks to the Board of Directors.
• Ensure that the Group's insurance coverage is adequate and appropriate.

Educational Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• MBA or other relevant graduate degree preferred.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or equivalent professional accounting designation (e.g., ACA, ACCA).
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in finance, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Experience in a multi-national or diversified business environment is highly desirable.