Head Finance Accounts Job Description

A Head of Finance & Accounts oversees all financial aspects of an organization. This leadership role demands a strategic thinker with a strong understanding of accounting principles, financial regulations, and business operations. The Head of Finance & Accounts is responsible for ensuring the financial health and stability of the company.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Planning & Analysis: Developing and implementing financial strategies, budgets, and forecasts. Analyzing financial performance, identifying trends, and providing recommendations for improvement.
Accounting & Reporting: Overseeing the preparation of accurate and timely financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements. Ensuring compliance with accounting standards (e.g., GAAP, IFRS) and regulatory requirements.
Budgeting & Forecasting: Leading the annual budgeting process and creating rolling forecasts to predict future financial performance. Monitoring budget variances and implementing corrective actions.
Financial Control & Risk Management: Establishing and maintaining strong internal controls to safeguard company assets. Identifying and mitigating financial risks. Ensuring compliance with tax regulations.
Treasury Management: Managing cash flow, investments, and banking relationships. Optimizing the company’s capital structure.
Team Leadership & Management: Leading, mentoring, and developing the finance and accounting team. Setting performance goals, providing feedback, and conducting performance reviews.
Auditing & Compliance: Managing relationships with external auditors and ensuring a smooth audit process. Staying up-to-date on changes in accounting regulations and ensuring compliance.
Stakeholder Management: Communicating financial information to senior management, the board of directors, and investors. Providing financial insights to support strategic decision-making.
System Implementation & Improvement: Identifying opportunities to improve financial processes and systems. Leading the implementation of new accounting software or other financial technologies.
Cost Accounting: Overseeing the cost accounting function, including cost allocation, variance analysis, and inventory management.

Required Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. Master’s degree or professional certification (e.g., CPA, CMA, ACCA) preferred.
Experience: Significant experience in finance and accounting, with progressive leadership roles. Typically 10+ years of experience.
Technical Skills: Strong understanding of accounting principles, financial regulations, and tax laws. Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., SAP, Oracle, QuickBooks). Excellent spreadsheet skills (e.g., Excel).
Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead and manage a team. Strong communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills. Ability to influence and persuade others.
Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to interpret financial data and provide actionable insights.
Strategic Thinking: Ability to think strategically and develop financial plans that support the company’s overall goals.
Attention to Detail: High degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
Ethical Standards: Uncompromising ethical standards and integrity.

The Head of Finance & Accounts plays a vital role in ensuring the financial success of an organization. Their expertise and leadership are essential for driving profitable growth and managing financial risk.