Job description: West Africa Financial Controller – Nigeria
Description:
The West Africa Controller is a leadership position within the region and a Business Partner to the Regional GM. The position is responsible for all activities related to accounting, financial analysis, administration, IT and reporting of local statutory legal entities in West Africa, including at this time Nigeria and Angola, which are fully owned subsidiaries of an American Company with Headquarters in the USA and Paris. Reports to EMEA Aftermarket Controller and is based in Lagos, Nigeria.
Standard Responsibilities:
Handle the complete financial reporting, forecasting, controlling, accounting, tax, IT and administration of the legal entities fulfilling all legal requirements originating from authorities like Tax and Social Security. Perform all the financial reporting requirements originating from our client Headquarters in Europe and in the US. Represent the Company for external contacts with 3rd parties like Audit Companies or local Banks. Establish robust processes and local policies and procedures to comply with requirements. Implement local accounting ERP systems across functional areas. Develop a solid back-office infrastructure and support system for business growth. Support the GM with all business activities.
Positions Qualifications:
A minimum of 10 years related experience and 5 years experience as Chief Accountant is required, preferably in an international English speaking environment
Fluent in English – oral and written
A minimum of BS Finance/Accounting; professional accounting certification (CPA, ACCA, or equivalent)
Project accounting and job costing background required
Professional accounting skills of local GAAP and good skills on US GAAP. Good knowledge in National Tax and Social Security laws
Ability to business partner with Branch Manager and General Manager
Position Responsibilities and Duties:
Responsible for the full process of the month end close including the Actuals , Forecasts and the Reporting in accordance with EMEA and HQ timetables.
- Ensuring that the monthly company accounts and balance sheet reconciliations are done in accordance with NGAAP and USGAAP
- Providing leadership to the commercial operations team ensuring business managment of bookings and sales in line with Annual Operating Plan
- Ensure Sarbanes Oxley compliance including monthly reporting and maintaining Sarbox environment
Full P&L, Balance Sheet, Invoicing, Accounts Receivable, Inventory, Accounts Payable, Payroll, Fixed Assets and Intercompany responsibility for the country
Comply with internal and external audit requirements, including local legal, tax and audit requirements, and statutory reporting,
Assure SOX alignment and that proper Compliance processes are in place, including local written procedures, account reconciliations, closing checklists, proper revenue recognition and proper documentation and approval processes
Champion ERP deployment and integration into the West African business, ensuring compliance and adherence to systems and procedures.
Provide coaching and mentoring to the West African team of finance team, ensuring development technically and leadership development.
Manage IT and Administrative related requirements for business.
In addition to the above listed qualifications the position requires good communication skills with all internal and external contacts. Ability to work under pressure and set priorities.
Position will require approximately 30% travel.