Senior Manager, Financial Control

This role is responsible for ensuring the accuracy, compliance, and integrity of Sundry General Ledgers (GLs) and Internal Accounts from a financial reporting perspective. The incumbent will conduct monthly variance analysis, manage escalation and exception processes, and critically review Sundry Accounts to minimize financial risks. Additionally, the role oversees key financial and internal control functions, ensuring adherence to IFRS and internal policies while driving process improvements to enhance reporting accuracy and control efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

- Sundry GLs and Internal Accounts Management: Conduct regular reviews of Sundry GLs and Internal Accounts to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with accounting standards and internal policies. Analyze account balances to identify discrepancies or anomalies and escalate unresolved issues to senior management with actionable recommendations. Prepare detailed periodic reports highlighting variances and improvement suggestions. Develop frameworks to mitigate financial risks related to these accounts.

- Monthly Variance Analysis, Escalation, and Exception Management: Perform comprehensive monthly variance analysis to detect deviations from expected performance. Prepare variance reports for internal and regulatory use, emphasizing key trends. Manage the full escalation process for exceptions, ensuring timely resolution and clear communication with relevant stakeholders.

- Financial and Internal Controls Management: Oversee critical financial control activities, including monitoring and rectifying reverse, abnormal, and mismatch balances. Reconcile GL subsidiary accounts to maintain data accuracy and ensure compliance with internal controls over financial reporting (ICFR). Conduct periodic reviews of internal controls to align with IFRS, regulatory guidelines, and organizational policies. Recommend improvements to strengthen the control environment.

- Stakeholder Collaboration and Coordination: Liaise with external auditors to resolve audit queries efficiently and communicate financial information effectively. Collaborate with internal teams such as operations and business units to gather data, address variances, and support financial disclosures. Serve as the primary contact for financial reporting issues related to Sundry GLs and Internal Accounts.

- Governance and Continuous Improvement: Develop, document, and maintain policies, procedures, and controls governing Sundry GLs and Internal Accounts. Stay updated on regulatory and industry developments impacting financial reporting and implement necessary changes. Drive initiatives to improve the efficiency and accuracy of Sundry GL management and reporting.

- Operating Environment: The role demands strict adherence to established policies and procedures to mitigate financial risks, reduce costs, and prevent losses. It involves collaboration with multiple branches, subsidiaries, head office departments, auditors, and other units within the organization.

- Problem Solving and Decision Making: Analyze large volumes of financial data to identify root causes of discrepancies or anomalies. Evaluate various solutions considering both immediate and long-term impacts. Anticipate risks and implement preventive measures. Handle high-pressure situations such as audit queries and reporting deadlines with composure, making informed decisions that balance speed and accuracy. Work closely with internal teams and external auditors to resolve conflicts and discrepancies.

Required Qualifications

- Chartered Accountant (CA), ACCA, CPA, or an equivalent professional qualification.
- Minimum of 7 to 8 years of experience in financial reporting, accounting, or internal controls, preferably within the banking or financial services sector.
- Proven expertise in managing General Ledger accounts, variance analysis, and financial controls in large organizations.

Technical Skills

- Strong knowledge of IFRS and regulatory reporting standards relevant to the banking industry.
- Proficiency in financial analysis, reconciliations, and exception management.
- Advanced skills in core banking systems, accounting software, and Microsoft Excel.
- In-depth understanding of internal controls over financial reporting (ICFR).

This position offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic environment, collaborating across multiple departments and geographies, contributing to robust financial governance and continuous process enhancement.