Overview
Job purpose
The Finance Manager will play a critical role in steering the company's financial strategy and operations. This position entails comprehensive oversight of financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting to support growth and stability. The Finance Manager will be responsible for implementing robust financial controls, managing risks, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Part of the core role will be maintaining accurate accounting records and delivering timely and insightful financial reporting. The role also involves providing strategic insights to optimize resource allocation and drive efficiency, enabling the organization to effectively support its diverse stakeholders.
Specific Skills
Sector Experience: Experience in the agricultural or Agri- finance sector or digital marketplace platforms.
Technology Skills: Familiarity with digital platforms and financial technology solutions.
Project Management: Experience in managing financial projects and initiatives.
Local Knowledge: Understanding of the financial and regulatory environment in Uganda or East Africa.
Professional Network: Established professional network within the finance and agricultural sectors in East Africa.
Technical Skills: Strong knowledge of financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
Regulatory Knowledge: In-depth understanding of financial and tax regulations and compliance requirements.
Analytical Skills: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex financial data.
Software Proficiency: Proficiency in financial and accounting software (desirably QuickBooks Enterprise and other ERPs) and Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
Leadership: Proven leadership and team management skills.
Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and attention to detail in financial management and reporting.
Languages
Strong verbal and written communication skills (English)
Proficiency in additional languages spoken in the East African region.
Responsible For
1.Financial Planning and Strategy:
Developing comprehensive five-year, annual, and seasonal financial plans to support the company's objectives and long-term growth. This involves budgeting, forecasting, and conducting financial analysis to guide strategic decision-making.
2.Financial Reporting and Analysis:
Overseeing the preparation of financial statements, reports, and analysis to provide insights into the company's financial performance and trends. This includes ensuring compliance with accounting standards and regulations.
3.Risk Management:
Identifying and managing financial risks, including agricultural risks (weather, disease, pests), market fluctuations, credit risks, and operational challenges. Implementing strategies to mitigate these risks to protect profitability and stability.
4.Cash Flow and Capital Management:
Monitoring cash flow and liquidity, managing working capital, and optimizing the capital structure to accommodate seasonal variations in income and expenses. Overseeing strategic investments and financing decisions, including evaluating debt and equity options.
5.Financial Control and Compliance:
Establishing and maintaining internal controls to safeguard assets, ensuring accuracy in financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Overseeing audits and implementing best practices in financial governance.
6.Strategic Financial Decision-Making:
Advising senior management and the board of directors on key financial decisions, such as mergers and acquisitions, investment opportunities, and divestitures. Evaluating the financial impact of strategic initiatives.
7.Stakeholder Communication:
Communicating financial performance, forecasts, and strategies to stakeholders, including investors, lenders, and regulatory authorities. Preparing presentations, participating in meetings, and maintaining transparency in financial matters.
8.Leadership and Team Management:
Leading the finance team by hiring and developing talent, setting performance goals, and fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability. Ensuring the team aligns with the company's financial objectives.
9.Business Partnership:
Collaborating with other departments to align financial goals with overall business objectives. Providing financial guidance for operational decisions and evaluating the financial impact of business initiatives.
10.Contract Management:
Overseeing the negotiation, review, and management of contracts. Ensuring favorable terms and compliance with financial goals, working closely with legal counsel to streamline administration and performance monitoring.
11.Tax Planning and Compliance:
Developing tax strategies tailored to the agricultural sector, ensuring compliance with tax laws, and optimizing tax efficiency. Overseeing accurate tax filings, managing audits, and staying informed on relevant tax regulations.
Educational Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field.
Professional accounting qualification (e.g., CPA, ACCA).
Master’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in finance and accounting roles, with at least 2 years in a managerial position.