Assistant Finance Manager

Executive recruitment company Monroe Consulting Group Malaysia's Finance & Accounting Division is recruiting on behalf of a US MNC and a market leader in F&B supplies. Our respected client is seeking an experienced Assistant Finance Manager.

Job summary
The ideal candidate will be responsible for supporting the finance department by overseeing financial operations, ensuring accurate reporting, and maintaining compliance. He/She will lead financial analysis, assist with budgeting, and manage audits, tax submissions, and payroll. The role also involves handling special projects, implementing new systems, and providing leadership to the team while ensuring effective communication across departments. This role will report to the Finance Manager and be based in KL.

Job Responsibilities:
Management Reporting

• Lead monthly and yearly closing activities, ensuring deadlines are met.
• Review and approve accounting entries, reports, and reconciliations.
• Identify and resolve issues promptly, reporting any significant matters to the superior.

• Manage daily finance operations, liaising with the ERP team for issue resolution.
• Oversee and review payment processes and ensure compliance with internal controls.
• Propose and implement process improvements in coordination with the finance team.

• Lead audit, tax submission, and compliance activities, ensuring timely and accurate completion.
• Manage ad hoc audits, including tax and customs audits.
• Ensure compliance with local regulations and update management on changes.

• Prepare and submit various financial and business analysis reports.
• Assist in the annual operating plan (AOP) preparation and flash forecasts.
• Provide financial insights and recommendations to support business decisions.

• Assist in strategic planning and business reviews by preparing necessary financial forecasts and reports.
• Coordinate and prepare reports for key business meetings.

• Lead and support finance improvement projects involving digital tools like PowerBI and ERP systems.
• Work with IT and other departments to enhance data analytics and reporting capabilities.

• Act as backup for the Finance Manager during absences, including payment authorization and meeting representation.

• Engage with cross-functional teams and external partners to streamline finance operations.
• Manage escalations and ensure effective communication with stakeholders.

• Oversee the entire payroll process, ensuring timely and accurate payment of salaries, allowances, bonuses, and deductions.
• Manage the administration of employee health benefits, including medical insurance, hospitalization coverage, and other welfare programs.
• Ensure accurate calculation and timely remittance of income tax (PCB) for all employees in accordance with Malaysian tax laws.
• Oversee the calculation and submission of statutory contributions, including EPF, SOCSO, and EIS, ensuring full compliance with Malaysian regulations.

• Degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related qualification; professional certifications are an advantage.
• At least 5 years of related experience.
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles and financial operations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, PowerBI) and familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP S4 HANA, D365).
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• High degree of initiative, ability to multitask, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work with internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience in F&B or FMCG environments and multinational companies or shared service centres.
• Knowledge of E-invoice regulations and transfer pricing.
• Familiarity with financial improvement projects and credit control.