Chief Financial Strategist

Job Description - Financial Strategist

The position of Financial Strategist is a key role in shaping the financial direction of our organization. This individual will be responsible for overseeing all financial operations, including planning, budgeting, compliance, reporting, and internal controls.

The Financial Strategist will provide strategic financial insights, ensure regulatory adherence, and implement robust financial processes that align with the company's goals towards long-term financial sustainability and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement the company's financial strategy, aligning with overall business objectives.
• Prepare and present financial forecasts, budgets, and strategic plans to senior management.
• Analyse financial performance and advise on strategies to optimise profitability and growth.
• Monitor economic trends and industry developments to anticipate financial opportunities and risks.

Financial Operations & Control:

• Oversee the day-to-day financial operations, including accounting, billing, payroll, accounts receivable/payable, and banking relationships.
• Ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with GAAP/IFRS and applicable local regulatory requirements.
• Implement and maintain robust internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure proper financial reporting.
• Supervise the preparation and timely filing of financial statements and tax returns, ensuring adherence to statutory deadlines.

Budgeting & Forecasting:

• Lead the annual budgeting process, ensuring alignment with the company's strategic goals.
• Analyse variances between actual performance and budget, and provide recommendations for corrective actions.
• Develop cash flow forecasts and manage working capital to ensure operational liquidity.

Risk Management & Compliance:

• Identify and assess financial risks, including currency exchange risk between international operations, and implement strategies to mitigate them.
• Ensure compliance with all financial regulations and guidelines, including tax laws, transfer pricing, and reporting requirements.
• Oversee audits (internal and external) and manage relationships with auditors and regulatory authorities.

Strategic Decision Support:

• Serve as a key advisor to senior management on financial matters and business strategy.
• Provide financial insights for critical business decisions, including investments, mergers & acquisitions, and new service line launches.
• Evaluate the financial viability of client contracts, pricing strategies, and new market entry to optimise profitability.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Lead and mentor a team of finance professionals, fostering a culture of continuous learning and excellence.
• Implement best practices for financial processes and systems to drive efficiency and accuracy.
• Conduct performance evaluations and identify training needs to support professional growth within the finance team.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Education: CA or equivalent.
• Experience: 10-15 years of experience in a similar role, preferably in an IT/ITES company engaged in client services/product development.
• Industry Knowledge: Good understanding of the IT/ITES and Pharma sector, client service models, cost structures, and market trends.
• International Exposure: Working experience in managing financial operations across multiple geographies, particularly in US and UK.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in financial software and advanced Excel skills.
• Analytical and Strategic Thinking: Ability to analyse complex financial data and present actionable insights to stakeholders.
• Leadership and Communication: Strong leadership skills with the ability to effectively communicate with executive management, clients, and cross-functional teams.

Key Competencies:

• Attention to Detail: Accuracy and precision in managing financial records and reports.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify financial issues and implement effective solutions.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to operate in a dynamic business environment with diverse market conditions.
• Ethics and Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards and integrity in financial management.

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