Chief Finance Officer - Manufacturing/FMCG

Purpose Of The Role :

The CFO will be a key strategic partner to the CEO and the Board, responsible for driving financial performance, ensuring robust risk and governance frameworks, and enabling long-term value creation. The role involves overseeing all financial operations, strategy, reporting, budgeting, taxation, treasury, and compliance functions. The CFO will play a critical role in shaping the organizations financial future while ensuring integrity, transparency, and compliance.

Responsibilities:

Strategic Financial Leadership

- Develop and execute the financial strategy aligned with corporate goals.

- Provide strategic recommendations to the CEO and executive team.

- Evaluate and advise on the financial impact of long-range planning and business initiatives.

Financial Planning, Reporting & Analysis

- Lead the annual budgeting and forecasting process.

- Deliver timely and accurate financial statements in accordance with IFRS or other relevant standards.

- Monitor performance indicators and interpret key financial trends to guide business decisions.

Treasury & Cash Flow Management

- Ensure adequate liquidity and optimal capital structure.

- Manage banking relationships and negotiations for credit lines or funding.

- Oversee foreign exchange, hedging strategies, and working capital optimization.

Governance, Risk & Compliance

- Ensure strong internal controls, audit readiness, and compliance with local laws and international standards.

- Liaise with external auditors, tax authorities, and regulatory bodies.

- Lead risk management initiatives to identify, assess, and mitigate financial and operational risks.

People Leadership & Development

- Build and mentor a high-performing finance team.

- Establish clear performance metrics and develop succession plans within the finance function.

- Foster a culture of accountability, transparency, and ethical financial practices.

Investor & Stakeholder Relations

- Prepare board presentations, investor reports, and communications for financial stakeholders.

- Support funding, JV, M&A, or equity-raising activities if required.

Desired Candidate Profile:

Qualifications:

- CA / CPA / ACCA from a reputed institution.

- Additional certifications in IFRS, treasury, or corporate finance are an advantage.

Experience:

- 1520 years of progressive financial leadership experience.

- Minimum 5 years as CFO or Finance Director in a manufacturing, packaging, FMCG, or industrial products company.

- Exposure to operations in Africa or emerging markets is a strong advantage.

- Experience working in mid-sized or family-owned enterprises is preferred.

Key Competencies & Skills:

Leadership & Strategy

- Strategic mindset with the ability to influence C-level stakeholders.

- Strong commercial acumen and business partnering skills.

- High integrity and ability to lead by example.

Technical Proficiency

- Expertise in financial planning, IFRS, cash flow, budgeting, and forecasting.

- Proficiency in ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or equivalent).

- Sound understanding of taxation, international finance, and compliance.

Analytical & Execution Excellence

- Data-driven decision-making capability.

- Problem-solving and scenario planning.

- Execution-focused with attention to detail and timelines.

Communication & Collaboration

- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.

- Ability to manage diverse teams across cultures and geographies.

- Fluent in English; knowledge of Portuguese or French is an advantage.