Finance Controller/India Head Finance - Agricultural Commodities Industry

Our client is a Geneva based multinational into trading of agricultural commodities. They are looking for India head of Finance and Accounts.

Job Objective

As the Finance Head for our thriving commodity industry enterprise, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and optimizing our financial strategies, ensuring compliance, and driving sustainable growth. Leveraging your expertise in financial management, you will lead a talented team, collaborate with senior leadership, and provide key insights that guide critical decision-making.

Essential Accountabilities and Tasks

Financial Planning and Analysis:

- Develop and manage annual budgets, forecasts, and financial plans for the commodity business in India.

- Analyze financial performance, identify variances, and provide actionable insights to optimize operational efficiency.

- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align financial strategies with business goals.

Financial Reporting and Compliance:

- Prepare accurate and timely financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, adhering to local and Global regulatory and accounting standards.

- Ensure compliance with taxation, legal, and regulatory requirements related to the commodity industry in India.

- Coordinate with internal and external auditors to facilitate audits and maintain financial integrity.

Strategic Financial Management:

- Provide strategic financial guidance to senior management and contribute to decision-making processes.

- Evaluate investment opportunities, potential risks, and profitability within the commodity sector.

- Monitor market trends, commodity prices, and economic factors impacting the business, and recommend appropriate strategies.

Risk Management:

- Implement and maintain robust internal controls to mitigate financial risks and prevent fraud.

- Assess and manage currency exchange and commodity price risks, recommending hedging strategies when necessary.

Treasury and Cash Management:

- Manage cash flow, working capital, and liquidity to ensure the availability of funds for operational needs and growth initiatives.

- Optimize the company's capital structure and oversee banking relationships.

Benchmarks - Adherence to local and international financial regulations, accounting standards, and taxation laws.

- Accuracy of budget preparation and alignment with actual financial performance.

- Contribution to strategic decision-making through financial analysis and insights.

- Identification and implementation of cost-saving opportunities and efficiencies.

Combined Endeavors - Senior Management and Leadership Team:

- Collaborate with executives and senior leaders to provide financial insights and analysis for strategic planning and decision-making.

- Present financial reports, forecasts, and budget updates to communicate financial performance and implications to the leadership team.

- Participate in discussions about business strategies, investments, and expansion plans.

Operations and Business Units:

- Work closely with operational managers and business unit leaders to understand their financial needs, provide guidance on budget management, and identify cost-saving opportunities.

- Collaborate on financial aspects of project planning, resource allocation, and performance measurement.

Treasury and Cash Management:

- Interact with treasury and cash management teams to optimize cash flow, manage working capital, and ensure liquidity for operational needs.

Tax and Legal Departments:

- Collaborate with tax and legal professionals to ensure compliance with tax regulations, reporting requirements, and legal standards.

- Provide financial data for tax planning, audit preparation, and regulatory compliance.

Internal and External Auditors:

- Facilitate audits by providing required financial documentation and information.

- Address audit findings and implement recommended improvements to internal controls and financial processes.

Finance Team:

- Lead and manage the finance team, fostering collaboration and providing guidance to achieve departmental and organizational objectives.

- Coordinate financial reporting, budgeting, and analysis efforts among team members.

- Facilitate professional development and training opportunities for team members.

Expertise, Proficiencies & Career trajectory

Educational Background: A bachelor's degree in finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field is typically required. A master's degree (such as an MBA) or professional certifications (e.g., CA, CMA, CFA) can provide a strong advantage.

Relevant certifications, such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), can demonstrate advanced expertise.

A solid background in finance and accounting, ideally with a focus on the commodity industry or related sectors.

Previous experience in progressively responsible financial roles, including accounting, financial analysis, and managerial positions.

Work Experience: A minimum of 8-9 years of progressively responsible experience in financial management, accounting, and analysis, with a focus on the commodity industry or related sectors.