MISSION

The Head of Finance provides strategic financial leadership to the company, ensuring effective financial planning, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. This role is responsible for guiding the overall financial direction of the company while also managing the day-to-day financial operations. 

The Head of Finance works closely with other departments to streamline processes, identify cost-saving opportunities, and support informed decision-making through clear and accurate financial reporting. This position requires a balance of high-level strategic thinking and hands-on operational involvement.

Key responsibilities include overseeing budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis; ensuring adherence to relevant financial regulations and tax requirements; and implementing strong internal controls to safeguard the company’s assets.

The overarching objective is to foster financial sustainability, enhance transparency, and contribute meaningfully to the organization’s long-term success through disciplined financial management and continuous operational improvement.

MAIN ACTIVITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The main activities and responsibilities of the role encompass a diverse range of functions, including:

Finance Operations Management:

• Manage the full spectrum of the company’s finance operations, including oversight of invoice processing, payment functions, general ledger accuracy, ERP integration, and related activities, ensuring alignment with financial goals and operational efficiency.

Financial Reporting and Analysis:

• Lead and execute timely monthly, quarterly and annual management reports, annual financial audits.
• Oversee weekly/monthly sales reporting and packages and provide insights to the local Management team and to Group Finance.

Budgeting and Forecasting

• Lead the annual budgeting and forecasting process across all Departments and support Department Heads in managing their budgets effectively.
• Monitor actual performance vs. budget and highlight variances with corrective action plans.

Finance Process Re-Engineering

• Establish and review finance processes, policies, and organisation to be refined based on the latest knowledge and best practices frequently, and benchmark the Finance function against other functions in alignment and support of business strategic initiatives.

Leadership and Stakeholder Management

• Part of Country Leadership Team.
• Collaborate with other departments such as Sales/Dealing, Operations/Warehouse, and IT teams to achieve organizational goals.
• Communicate financial performance and strategic insights to various stakeholders in the Group.

Statutory Compliance:

• Ensure timely and accurate preparation and filing of audited accounts and tax computations.
• Oversee transfer pricing documentation and manage tax audits or investigations.
• Ensure compliance with the Companies Act, e-Invoicing rules and guidelines and relevant regulations and regulatory authorities such as Bank Negara Malaysia, LHDN, and Customs.

Financial Operations and Controls

• Oversee year-end stock take and liaise with Operations/Warehouse to ensure inventory accuracy.
• Implement and monitor financial controls and risk management measures.

Team Management and Development

• Lead, guide, and mentor a team of 5-6 accountants.
• Allocate tasks, provide training, and monitor staff performance.
• Cultivate teamwork and support staff development through coaching and recognition.

Technology and Systems:

• Drive system improvements, including Power BI and ERP usage.
• Identify and implement process improvements for efficiency and compliance.
• Ensure accuracy and completeness in all financial system processes.

QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE

Education and Certification:

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Member of the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA) or equivalent professional body such ACCA, CPA, ICAEW or equivalent are preferred

Experience:

• Minimum of 15 years of total working experience in finance or accounting roles, with at least 5 years in a managerial role overseeing a department of similar scale.
• Hands-on experience with ERP systems (minimum 2 years), including implementation, process control, and reporting.
• Prior experience in commodities or related industries is an advantage.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong leadership and team management abilities, possess strategic thinking and decision-making capabilities.
• Sound knowledge of statutory compliance, tax regulations, and financial reporting standards.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and financial reporting tools (e.g. Power BI).
• Ability to effectively convey financial information to non-financial stakeholders.
• Capacity to interpret complex financial data and provide actionable insights.
• Skill in identifying and mitigating financial risks with a strong understanding of risk management strategies.
• Knowledge of establishing and maintaining effective internal control processes.
• Proactive approach to identifying and resolving challenges with strong commitment to ethical standards and integrity in financial management.
• Ability to adapt to changing business environments and evolving organizational needs, including ERP implementations.
• Fluent in English at a professional level.