Group CFO - Large Conglomerate

About The Client

Our client is a dynamic conglomerate with a diverse portfolio spanning construction, trading, and automotive supply and services. Since its founding, the Group has been unwavering in its commitment to providing top-quality products and services, driven by a team of dedicated professionals.

Founded in the early 1970s with General Transport, the Group has grown significantly, now encompassing over 20 business units. With a strong presence across the GCC, Africa, and Asia, and headquartered in Abu Dhabi, the Group is expanding its reach globally.

As the Group continues to thrive, it remains focused on seizing new growth opportunities. Above all, its mission is to create lasting value for its customers and make a positive impact on the communities where it operates.

About the Role:

Reporting to: Group CEO

As the Group Chief Finance Officer (GCFO), you will play a key role in managing and overseeing all financial activities of the Group. You will be responsible for business planning, budgeting, forecasting, negotiations, and ensuring the alignment of financial reporting with international standards and relevant government regulations. You will also collaborate with the CEO and the Board of Directors to provide critical financial assessments to help guide the Group's long-term strategies, financial planning, and risk management.

Primary Job Responsibilities:

Strategy

1. Develop financial strategies by providing financial and accounting information, financial forecasts, analysis, and recommendations.
2. Align financial goals with the Group's strategic objectives, identifying opportunities for revenue growth and cost reduction.
3. Review and present financial performance reports, operational reports, and high-level financial analysis to the CEO.
4. Collaborate with the CEO and other stakeholders to formulate strategies and ensure financial stability.
5. Ensure adherence to financial policies, including review of external auditor reports and compliance with applicable laws.
6. Assist in the development of the Group's annual business plans and budgets.

Execution

1. Lead the financial forecasting process and monitor financial performance against the set budget.
2. Ensure the accuracy of provisions and recommendations based on IFRS requirements.
3. Manage cash flow and liquidity to ensure optimal levels of working capital and short-term investments.
4. Oversee financial operations and ensure that all financial activities comply with international financial standards and regulations.
5. Lead and develop a high-performing Finance team and recruit key staff in coordination with the Human Resources department.
6. Provide guidance on complex financial matters and recommend actionable solutions.

Supervision

1. Lead the Finance Department across the Group, ensuring consistent implementation of financial policies, internal controls, and accounting practices.
2. Oversee the financial position and cash management on a periodic basis to ensure sufficient working capital.
3. Ensure effective and consistent application of IFRS standards and assist in financial audits and reporting.
4. Monitor and approve financial reports, including cash flow projections, and make adjustments as needed.

Coordination

1. Work collaboratively with other C-suite executives and attend key strategic meetings.
2. Prepare financial reports for regulators and other government agencies as required.
3. Identify, report, and mitigate financial risks in coordination with the Audit & Risk Committee.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications and Experience:

1. Education: Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field. MBA or a Postgraduate Degree in a relevant field is advantageous.
2. Certification: Qualified CPA, CMA, CA, CFA, or equivalent certification is mandatory.
3. Experience: Minimum 12 years of leadership and technical experience in financial management, including experience in managing large business units and responsibility for income statements, balance sheets, budgeting, and performance reporting.
4. Experience in the construction, real estate, or hospitality industries is advantageous.
5. Proficiency in accounting software and strong technical knowledge of IFRS financial reporting.
6. Proven track record as a CFO or Financial Director in a similar organization is a plus.

Key Skills and Competencies:

Functional Skills & Competencies

1. Experience in managing large business units with income statements, balance sheet accountability, budgeting processes, and performance reporting.
2. Strong financial management and accounting practices.
3. Deep knowledge of IFRS and financial reporting.
4. Proficiency with finance software, spreadsheets, and word processing tools.
5. Experience in developing Finance and Accounting policies and procedures.

General Skills & Competencies

1. Dynamic, self-motivated, and results-oriented.
2. Excellent leadership and people management skills, including recruitment, team growth, and development.
3. Strong analytical, forecasting, and problem-solving abilities.
4. Exceptional written and spoken communication skills (English required; Arabic is an added advantage).
5. Excellent negotiation and presentation skills.

Benefits

1. Competitive salary with performance-based incentives.
2. Health and wellness benefits.
3. Opportunity for career growth and development within a leading conglomerate.
4. Working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with a talented team.
5. Comprehensive learning and development programs.