Assistant Financial Controller – Trading & Manufacturing

Our client is a leading Kuwaiti business with a diverse portfolio across multiple industries. Their philosophy emphasizes developing innovative solutions with vast potential in multiple sectors aiming to create opportunities that foster business growth.

What we offer
In addition to a competitive tax-free salary and excellent benefits, you'll work in a professional, collaborative environment with a diverse team and numerous opportunities. Our client offers a rewarding career experience and is excited to connect with individuals seeking new challenges.

Who you are
You are a dynamic professional with a proven track record in managing financial risks. Highly analytical and detail-oriented, proactive and strategic thinker. You accurately interpret financial data to guide the finance team and make critical decisions. Self-driven with the ability to focus on key priorities and work independently with minimal supervision
Skills & Competencies:

• Demonstrate experience in managing Finance end-to-end processes, forecasting models, data analysis along with strong command over IFRS & IAS standards.
• Demonstrated experience in ERP Projects (SAP, ORACLE)
• High degree of Accountability, Integrity & Responsibility in all tasks assigned.
• Accountable to maintain right team size and swiftly fill up open positions
• Demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills, effective and efficient stake holder management with both Internal and External stake holders.

Education & Qualifications:

• Master's Degree in Business/Finance
• Qualified Finance Professional holding CA/CPA/CMA/ACCA
• Minimum 12-20 years of work experience, At least 5 years of experience at Managerial level in Finance
• Preferably working in Manufacturing & Services, Projects and Retail

Description
In this role, you will be responsible in supporting the financial management and operations of the company, working under the guidance of the Finance Controller.

Role & Responsibilities:

• Finance Management Responsibilities
  • Oversee end-to-end financial operations for the Trading & Manufacturing Division comprising multi-sector & multi-site businesses.
  • Ensure timely and accurate preparation of periodic financial statements (PL/BS/CF) and monthly MIS/KPIs at both business-unit and consolidated division levels.
  • Timely month and year closing, preparation of year end financials in compliance with applicable IFRS & IAS standards, co-ordinate with Group Finance, External Auditors and ensure signed financials within set timelines.
  • Lead the budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning cycles.
  • Partner with business unit leaders to align on financial KPIs, cost management strategies, and effective cash flow planning.
  • Develop and implement financial models for product-wise, service-wise, and project-based profitability analysis.
  • Conduct variance analysis and performance reviews to support data-driven decision-making.
  • Support establishment of internal financial controls and risk management processes, especially in newly launched business units.
  • Manage working capital through AR follow-up, inventory control, vendor payments, bank guarantees, and fixed asset investments.
  • Liaise with Corporate office, internal and external auditors to ensure compliance, accuracy, and financial governance.
• Systems & Automation Responsibilities
  • Lead process streamlining and financial systems optimization across SAP (PPCO/PS modules) and Oracle ERP systems.
  • Lead ERP transition and change management, including upskilling initiatives for teams migrating to Oracle.
  • Support automation and reporting enhancements, including Narrative Reporting, ARCS, and PCMCS.
  • Enhance use of SAP modules for improved visibility into performance and real-time financial insights.
  • Collaborate with IT and business teams to design, test, and implement system enhancements, controls, and reports.
  • Establish SOPs and system control checklists to maintain data integrity, especially in new business units.
• People Management Responsibilities
  • Lead and mentor the finance team size of 20-25, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Drive team growth through performance evaluations, skill gap analysis, and focused training programs.
  • Coordinate with corporate office to manage KPIs, review deliverables, conduct performance discussions, and resolve grievances.
  • Promote cross-functional collaboration across finance, operations, sales, and service to improve overall financial literacy and alignment.