Senior Project Finance Controller

ICF Olson; Belgique; On-site; EUR 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

ICF is seeking a Project Finance Controller to join the Europe & Asia Business Management team on a permanent basis in Belgium. You will drive financial performance, oversee revenue recognition, and support governance across multiple geographies.

Responsibilities include project setup, billing, accruals, and month-end close with PMs and Directors, ensuring compliance with internal controls and SOX policies.

Qualifications

• MBA, M.Com, CMA or equivalent finance qualification.
• 4-5 years of relevant experience in project finance, project controllership, or financial project administration within service or consultancy environments.
• Strong understanding of revenue recognition principles and financial standards (ASC606, IFRS, US GAAP).
• Advanced MS Excel skills (pivot tables, lookups, formulas, modelling).
• Proficiency in MS PowerPoint; Power BI experience is an advantage.
• Experienced user of financial/ERP systems (Maconomy strongly preferred).
• High numerical accuracy and strong analytical skills.
• Experience working in a matrix organisation across multiple geographies (Europe/Asia/India).

Responsibilities

• Monitor, analyse and interpret project financial performance with PMs and Directors.
• Lead or participate in project financial reviews and governance.
• Review contracts and set up projects in ERP per terms and controls.
• Prepare MIS, including revenue, costs, margins and commentary.
• Coordinate billing, cash flow and WIP with project teams and treasury.
• Support month-end close with accruals and reporting.

Skills

MS Excel

PowerPoint

Power BI

Financial analysis

Stakeholder management

Analytical skills

Education

MBA/M.Com/CMA or equivalent

Tools

Maconomy

Job description

About ICF

About ICF (www.icf.com) is a consultancy firm with offices in the UK, Belgium, the US and worldwide. At ICF, we help governments, public agencies and international institutions solve complex problems and improve the quality of life of people around the world. We offer critical insight and rigorous analytical techniques to deliver innovative solutions and thought-provoking analyses for our clients. Working at ICF means applying a passion for meaningful work with intellectual rigour to help solve the leading issues of our day. Smart, compassionate, innovative, committed, ICF employees tackle unprecedented challenges to assist our clients and benefit their constituencies. We believe in collaboration, mutual respect, open communication, and opportunity for growth.

About the team

We are looking for a Project Finance Controller to join our Europe & Asia Business Management team on a permanent basis to drive the financial performance of the ICF activities.

Main Responsibilities

• Project Financial Management & Analysis Monitor, analyse and interpret project financial performance in close collaboration with Project Managers and Directors. Conduct project re-forecasting and cost-to-complete reviews in line with ICF policies to ensure accurate and compliant revenue recognition. Provide actionable insights, variance analysis, and recommendations to support strategic and operational decision-making. Present monthly financial performance, risks, and opportunities to Senior Leadership.
• Project Setup, Maintenance & Compliance Review contracts (including inter-company agreements) and set up projects in the ERP system in accordance with contract terms, SOX regulations and internal controls. Maintain project financial data throughout the lifecycle—set-up, amendments, variations, and project closure—ensuring completeness and compliance. Support the maintenance of contract documents, agreements, and variation orders.
• Revenue Recognition & Reporting Ensure revenue is recognised correctly and consistently across all projects, fully aligned with accounting standards and internal policies. Prepare and deliver management reporting packages (MIS), including revenue, cost analysis, margin movements, and detailed commentary.
• Billing, Cash Flow & WIP Management Prepare timely and accurate client billing in coordination with Project Managers. Monitor aged debts, collaborate with Treasury on collections, and support actions to reduce WIP and overdue balances. Contribute to cash flow estimates and forecasting.
• Accruals & Month-End Close Calculate and post monthly subcontractor and freelancer accruals, ensuring completeness and correct cut-off. Support month-end close activities including reconciliations and preparation of financial reports.
• Project Governance & PM Support Lead or participate in project financial reviews to identify risks, required write-downs, claims handling, and necessary corrective actions. Train and support Project Managers on financial project management processes, best practices, and compliance requirements. Build strong working relationships with PMs and internal stakeholders to ensure high-quality financial governance.
• Controls, Audits & Process Improvement Support internal and external audits by preparing required documentation and evidence. Contribute to the development and implementation of financial controls, checklists, and continuous improvement initiatives to strengthen process efficiency and compliance.
• Other Responsibilities Perform ad-hoc duties and analysis as assigned to support business needs.

Basic Requirements

• MBA, M.Com, CMA or equivalent finance qualification.
• 4-5 years of relevant experience in project finance, project controllership, or financial project administration within service or consultancy environments.
• Strong understanding of revenue recognition principles and financial standards (e.g., ASC606, IFRS, US GAAP).
• Advanced MS Excel skills (pivot tables, lookups, formulas, modelling).
• Proficiency in MS PowerPoint; Power BI experience is an advantage.
• Experienced user of financial/ERP systems (Maconomy strongly preferred or willingness to learn quickly).
• High numerical accuracy and strong analytical skills.
• Experience working in a matrix organisation across multiple geographies (Europe/Asia/India).

Personal Qualities

• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and meet tight deadlines with high accuracy and attention to detail.
• Proactive, self-motivated, and committed to continuous learning and development.
• Able to organise, prioritise, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Strong stakeholder management and ability to build constructive relationships with PMs, finance teams, and leadership.
• Problem-solving mindset with a “can-do” attitude.
• Team player who collaborates effectively across functions and regions.

Right to Work, Location & Sponsorship (Belgium)

We welcome applications from candidates based in any country. This role is in Belgium, and successful candidates must: Have the legal right to work in Belgium, or be eligible for sponsorship on a case‑by‑case basis, and Be physically located in Belgium by Day 1 of employment (or shortly before your start date). Please ensure you can meet the right-to-work and location requirements or would qualify for sponsorship where applicable.

Working at ICF

ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we’re not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.

Candidate AI Usage Policy

At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair and equitable interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process. However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodations that involve the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at [e-mail]. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.

Brussels, Belgium (BE75)

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About ICF

ICF is a global consulting and technology services company with approximately 9,000 employees, but we are not your typical consultants. At ICF, business analysts and policy specialists work together with digital strategists, data scientists and creatives. We combine unmatched industry expertise ...Learn more at icf.com.