Senior Project Finance Controller

ICF; Brussel; On-site; EUR 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

ICF is seeking a Project Finance Controller in Brussels. You'll be responsible for financial performance management for ICF activities within Europe and Asia.

Key duties include project financial management, revenue recognition, and ensuring compliance with internal policies. The ideal candidate has an MBA or similar and 4-5 years experience in project finance.

Qualifications

• 4-5 years of experience in project finance or controllership.
• Strong understanding of revenue recognition principles.
• High numerical accuracy and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Monitor, analyse and interpret project financial performance.
• Review contracts and set up projects in the ERP system.
• Ensure revenue is recognised correctly across all projects.
• Prepare timely client billing.
• Support month-end close activities.

Skills

Project Financial Management

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

MS Excel

Revenue Recognition

Education

MBA, M.Com, CMA or equivalent

Tools

Maconomy

Power BI

Job description

Project Finance Controller

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.

Responsibilities

• Project Financial Management & Analysis
  • Monitor, analyse and interpret project financial performance in 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 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.

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 (e.g. ASC 606, 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.
• Be physically located in Belgium by Day 1 of employment (or shortly before your start date).