Head of Finance - Rwanda

Location Rwanda
Discipline: Construction Material
Job type: Permanent
Contact name: Jad Abou Mrad

Contact email: jad@businesslobby.net
Contact phone: +96170126644
Job ref: 43716
Published: 25 days ago

Our partner, a leading holding company in the steel industry, operates multiple subsidiaries across Africa specializing in manufacturing, processing, and distribution. With a strong focus on sustainability, the company transforms scrap metal into high-quality construction materials. They are currently seeking a Head of Finance to oversee financial operations and drive business growth and operational efficiency.

Responsibilities
  • Accounting & Financial Control
    • Supervise all accounting activities, ensuring complete accuracy and timely closing of books.
    • Maintain general ledger integrity, reconcile accounts, and ensure compliance with IFRS/local GAAP.
    • Oversee accounts payable/receivable, fixed asset accounting, and inventory valuation.
  • Auditing & Compliance
    • Coordinate with external auditors, providing necessary documentation and resolving queries.
    • Support internal audits, ensuring timely completion and adherence to recommendations.
    • Ensure timely statutory filings, tax returns, and compliance with regulatory obligations.
  • Banking & Borrowings
    • Supervise daily banking operations, including payments, deposits, and reconciliations.
    • Manage bank borrowings for working capital and project financing.
    • Prepare and maintain financial and legal documentation for loans, ensuring covenant compliance.
  • Budgeting & Financial Planning
    • Prepare the annual budget in coordination with Sales, Production, and other departments.
    • Monitor budget performance, identify variances, and recommend corrective actions.
    • Develop long-term financial forecasts to support strategic decisions.
  • MIS & Business Reporting
    • Oversee preparation of monthly MIS reports, ensuring accuracy and timely submission.
    • Provide analysis to GM/Management, highlighting trends, risks, and mitigation measures.
  • Sales & Procurement Accounting
    • Ensure accuracy in sales accounting, timely invoicing, and customer account reconciliation.
    • Support procurement with financial analysis, vendor accounting, and reconciliations.
  • Imports, Exports & Logistics Finance
    • Supervise import/export documentation and customs clearance processes.
    • Ensure accuracy of shipping, insurance, and logistics-related financial documentation.
  • Cash Flow & Working Capital Management
    • Conduct daily, weekly, and monthly cash flow planning.
    • Manage payables, receivables, and collections to maintain optimal liquidity.
    • Coordinate short-term and quarterly cash planning aligned with operational needs.
  • People & Culture Leadership
    • Oversee payroll processing in coordination with HR.
    • Mentor finance team members, fostering engagement and accountability.
    • Approve staffing requirements, conduct interviews, and manage performance appraisals.
    • Support training, capability development, and succession planning within the finance function.
  • Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
    • Error-free monthly account closing within agreed timelines.
    • Full implementation of audit recommendations.
    • Annual budget prepared by early December with variance <5%.
    • 100% on-time MIS report submission with data accuracy above 98%.
    • Optimized working capital cycle with no payment delays due to cash shortage.
    • Banking covenants met 100% with zero defaults or penalties.
    • Improved team performance and retention.
Qualifications
  • Education & Professional Qualifications
    • Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Chartered Accountant (CA), ICWA, CPA, ACCA, or equivalent.
  • Experience
    • Minimum 10 years in finance and accounts, with at least 5 years in a leadership role in manufacturing (steel preferred).
    • Strong knowledge of IFRS/local GAAP, tax laws, and statutory compliance.
    • Proven experience in financial planning, banking relationships, and working capital management.
  • Skills & Competencies
    • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
    • Excellent leadership and team management abilities.
    • High integrity and professional ethics.
    • Negotiation skills with banks, vendors, and customers.
    • Proficiency in ERP systems (SAP) and MS Excel.
Location
  • Rwanda
Schedule
  • Standard working hours with flexibility during critical reporting periods.
  • Occasional travel to plants, banks, and auditor offices may be required.
Benefits
  • Accommodation | Car | Transportation | Cellphone | 1 Ticket | Local allowance | Medical insurance | Bonus based on performance (3 to 6 months salary) | Family package + Schooling