We are seeking an experienced Finance Manager to lead the financial operations of a retail e-commerce company in Saudi Arabia. The Finance Manager will be responsible for overseeing all finance and accounting functions, ensuring robust financial reporting, compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), and adherence to local Saudi tax laws. This role is pivotal in managing cash flow, developing financial policies, and guiding strategic decisions to support business growth. The ideal candidate will combine technical accounting expertise with strong leadership skills to manage a finance team of approximately 15 people and drive financial excellence in a dynamic e-commerce environment.
* Accounting operations: Oversee day-to-day accounting functions including accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger maintenance, and month-end/year-end close processes. Ensure accuracy and integrity of the company’s financial records.
* Financial reporting: Prepare and present timely financial statements (monthly, quarterly, annual) and management reports. Ensure all financial reporting is precise and fully compliant with IFRS and company policies.
* Treasury & cash Flow Management: Manage treasury activities such as cash flow forecasting, banking relationships, and optimization of working capital. Monitor and control cash flow to ensure the business maintains sufficient liquidity for operations and growth.
* Taxation & compliance: Ensure full compliance with Saudi tax laws and regulations (e.g. VAT, Zakat, and other applicable taxes). Oversee the preparation and submission of tax returns, and liaise with tax authorities as needed. Stay updated on changes in local tax legislation and advise management on their financial impact.
* Audit management: Coordinate and lead external and internal audit processes. Serve as the primary liaison with external auditors, providing required documentation and explanations. Address audit findings promptly and ensure compliance issues are resolved, maintaining a strong control environment.
* Policies and controls: Develop, implement, and continuously improve financial policies, procedures, and internal controls. Ensure that proper financial governance is in place to safeguard assets, prevent fraud, and maintain compliance with all regulatory standards.
* Complex accounting matters: Tackle complex accounting issues and transactions such as revenue recognition for e-commerce sales, inventory valuation, intercompany transactions, or consolidation entries. Provide guidance on technical accounting matters to ensure they are handled in accordance with IFRS and best practices.
* Leadership & team Management: Lead and mentor a finance team of approximately 15 professionals. Assign responsibilities, set clear objectives, and evaluate performance. Foster a culture of continuous improvement, professional growth, and high ethical standards within the team.
Qualifications and Eexperience
* Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field. A master’s degree or professional certification (CPA, ACCA, CMA or equivalent) is highly preferred.
* Experience: At least 8-10 years of progressive experience in finance/accounting roles, with several years in a managerial position. Prior experience in the retail or e-commerce industry and familiarity with its revenue models and inventory cycles is an advantage.
* IFRS expertise: Strong knowledge of International Financial Reporting Standards, with a proven track record of preparing IFRS-compliant financial statements and resolving complex accounting issues in line with these standards.
* Tax knowledge: In-depth understanding of Saudi tax laws and regulations, including VAT and Zakat. Hands-on experience managing tax compliance, filings, and working with tax advisors or authorities in Saudi Arabia.
* Financial skills: Demonstrated ability to manage the full spectrum of financial functions – from accounts payable/receivable and general ledger to financial reporting and cash management. Solid experience with budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
* Audit & compliance: Experience coordinating audits (external and internal) and implementing audit recommendations. Familiarity with corporate governance and compliance requirements in Saudi Arabia.
* Leadership: Excellent leadership and people management skills. Proven ability to lead, develop, and motivate a finance team of similar size (10+ members), delegate tasks effectively, and build a collaborative team environment.
* Technical proficiency: Proficiency in financial systems and ERP software (e.g. SAP, Oracle, or MS Dynamics) and advanced MS Excel skills. Ability to leverage financial software for reporting and analysis.
* Analytical aptitude: Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with attention to detail and accuracy. Able to interpret complex financial data and provide insightful recommendations to support business decisions.
* Communication: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Able to clearly present financial information and insights to non-financial stakeholders and senior leadership. Fluency in English is required; knowledge of Arabic is a plus (for liaising with local authorities and stakeholders).
* Integrity: High degree of professionalism, ethics, and integrity. Commitment to upholding confidentiality and regulatory compliance at all times.
This Finance Manager role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact by shaping the financial health and strategy of a growing retail e-commerce business. The successful candidate will be a strategic partner to the executive team, driving financial efficiency, ensuring compliance, and supporting the company’s continued growth in the Saudi market.
