Finance Operations Lead

Our client is looking for a Finance Operations Lead to take charge of financial operations, statutory reporting, governance, and working capital management across the group. This is a leadership role for a finance professional who thrives on control, accuracy, and driving operational excellence in a manufacturing environment. You'll lead a team of five — Payables, Credit Control, Receivables, Taxation & Compliance, and Inventory Control Accountants — and be a key partner in ensuring the integrity of the group's financial records and its regulatory compliance. What You'll Do Financial Reporting & Period-End Lead monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes Prepare management accounts and board reporting packs Ensure IFRS and statutory compliance across all entities Financial Controls & Governance Strengthen internal control frameworks and audit readiness Own reconciliations and ledger integrity Coordinate internal and external audits through to closure Working Capital & Operational Finance Monitor debtor collections and supplier settlements Oversee manufacturing cost allocations and inventory valuation Drive EBITDA improvement through financial analysis and cost discipline Track budget vs. actual performance and lead corrective action Tax & Regulatory Compliance Ensure accurate, timely settlement of PAYE, VAT, WHT, WVAT, and other statutory obligations Lead implementation of tax law and regulatory changes Manage tax audits and compliance risk Team Leadership Supervise and develop the finance operations team Standardize processes and improve ERP utilization Build a high-performance, accountable finance culture What Success Looks Like Month-end close in ≤ 3 days, with >99% reporting accuracy Nil compliance breaches, minimal audit adjustments 100% of reconciliations completed monthly Debtor collections and supplier settlements >95% within terms 100% on-time statutory filings and payments Requirements What You Bring Bachelor's degree in Business, Commerce, Finance, Accounting, or a related field CPA, ACCA, CIMA, or an equivalent professional qualification FMVA, MBA, or a relevant postgraduate qualification is an added advantage Minimum 8 years' experience in finance operations, preferably in manufacturing Exposure to manufacturing, FMCG, or multi-entity business environments preferred Strong grounding in IFRS, internal controls, working capital management, and taxation Proven people leadership, analytical thinking, and business partnering skills ERP systems proficiency