Finance Controller

Direct Search Global; Singapore; On-site; SGD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial services firm in Singapore is seeking a Senior Finance Manager to lead financial planning and optimize cash flow. You will oversee accounting, ensure compliance, and mentor a finance team. Candidates should have a degree in Accounting or Finance, relevant professional qualifications, and 10 years of experience, including 5 in a managerial role. A record of strong analytical and stakeholder engagement skills is essential. This role offers a competitive salary and opportunities for growth.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in finance or accounting, including at least 5 years in a managerial role.
• Proven expertise in financial management, cash flow optimisation, and process improvement.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting processes.
• Oversee accounting, reporting, and financial control activities.
• Implement effective cost management strategies to improve profitability.

Skills

Financial management

Cash flow optimisation

Leadership skills

Analytical skills

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related discipline

Professional qualification such as CA, CPA, or ACCA

Job description

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership and Strategy

• Lead financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting processes to align with the company’s strategic objectives.
• Provide detailed financial analysis and recommendations to support executive decision-making.
• Oversee accounting, reporting, and financial control activities, ensuring accuracy and compliance with group standards.
• Ensure timely preparation of management accounts, statutory reports, and financial statements.
• Drive initiatives that strengthen financial performance and operational resilience across the group.

Operational Oversight and Process Improvement

• Review, design, and optimise financial and operational processes to enhance productivity and internal controls.
• Oversee cash flow planning, working capital management, and liquidity optimisation.
• Implement effective cost management strategies to improve profitability and support business growth.
• Monitor key operational metrics to ensure efficiency and alignment with business goals.
• Support the group’s capital-raising, investment, and financing initiatives.

Governance, Compliance, and Risk Management

• Maintain a strong internal control framework and ensure full compliance with accounting standards, tax regulations, and statutory requirements.
• Identify and manage financial and operational risks, ensuring effective mitigation measures are in place.
• Oversee audit processes and ensure adherence to corporate governance standards.
• Lead due diligence and integration efforts for mergers, acquisitions, and new ventures.
• Liaise with auditors, tax advisors, and regulatory authorities to ensure transparency and compliance.

Business Performance and Change Management

• Deliver data-driven insights to forecast business performance and guide strategic planning.
• Conduct financial modelling, scenario analysis, and performance reviews to support executive decision-making.
• Champion continuous improvement, digital transformation, and automation within the finance and operations functions.
• Partner with senior management to identify opportunities for growth and operational efficiency.

Stakeholder Management and Team Leadership

• Serve as the key liaison between the Board, external stakeholders, and internal departments on finance and operational matters.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing finance and operations team.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with banks, auditors, and government agencies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.
• Professional qualification such as CA, CPA, or ACCA.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in finance or accounting, including at least 5 years in a managerial role.
• Proven expertise in financial management, cash flow optimisation, and process improvement.
• Strong technical knowledge of accounting standards, reporting frameworks, and governance practices.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• High integrity, attention to detail, and ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities with a track record of developing and motivating teams.

Preferred Attributes

• Experience in the maritime, logistics, or commodities industries.
• Familiarity with government grants, tax incentives, and corporate compliance frameworks.
• Exposure to finance transformation or process automation initiatives.
• A strategic mindset with a pragmatic and hands-on approach to execution.