Finance Director - Saudi Arabia
Job details
At VML, we are a beacon of innovation and growth in an ever-evolving world. Our heritage is built upon a century of combined expertise, where creativity meets technology, and diverse perspectives ignite inspiration. With the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, we have forged a new path as a growth partner that is part creative agency, part consultancy, and part technology powerhouse. Our global family now encompasses over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 64 markets, each contributing to a culture that values connection, belonging, and the power of differences.Our expertise spans the entire customer journey, offering deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology. We deliver end-to-end solutions that result in revolutionary work. As Finance Director, you will be responsible for overseeing all financial and fiscal management aspects of company operations. You'll provide leadership and coordination in administrative tasks, business planning, accounting, and budgeting efforts. Your role will be pivotal in driving strategic financial processes and analysis aimed at fostering growth within our organization. As Finance Director at VML in Saudi Arabia, your responsibilities will encompass:
- Demonstrated experience in strategic planning and execution tailored to the creative technology sector.
- Proficiency in contracting, negotiating, and change management within a dynamic industry landscape.
- Deep understanding of finance, accounting, budgeting, and cost control principles relevant to a creative agency.
- Familiarity with automated financial and accounting reporting systems suitable for a technology-driven environment.
- Knowledge of both local and international financial regulations pertinent to the operations of a global agency.
- Expertise in risk management tailored to the unique challenges of the creative technology sector.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, crucial for effectively engaging with diverse stakeholders in the industry.
- Ability to inspire and motivate teams to deliver high-quality outcomes within tight deadlines while managing multiple projects simultaneously.
- Proficiency in facilitating group meetings and fostering collaboration across various teams.
- Proven business leadership and acumen are essential for navigating the complexities of the creative technology landscape.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and a results-oriented mindset.
- Effective communication skills at all levels of the organization are crucial for driving strategic initiatives forward.
- Sound judgment and decision-making skills to navigate complex business scenarios inherent to the industry.
- Navigate a complex internal “client” structure, including cross-company accounting and cross-organizational financial models inherent to a creative technology agency.
- Direct and oversee all aspects of the Finance & Accounting functions of the market, ensuring robust financial management within the agency.
- Collaborate with other managers to provide consultative support for planning initiatives through financial and management information analysis, reports, and recommendations.
- Partner with the CEO to identify potential new business opportunities and revenue streams.
- Develop, lead, and maintain a high-performance team committed to driving financial excellence within the agency.
- Coordinate and evaluate financial planning and analysis to support product development, including pricing and market analysis crucial for strategic decision-making in the technology sector.
- Advocate for and influence approvals for enhancements or changes in automated financial and management information systems within the VML structure.
- Oversee the approval and processing of revenue, expenditure, and position control documents, department budgets, salary updates, ledger maintenance, and data entry.
- Lead the implementation of strategic business and operational plans, projects, programs, and systems tailored to the agency's unique needs.
- Identify and facilitate the approval of an appropriate finance structure to support expanding operations abroad.
- Implement and monitor controls, procedures, and processes as per WPP & VML policies and regulations, ensuring compliance and efficiency in financial operations.
- Utilize strong understanding and experience in internal audit processes and procedures to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements and best practices, mitigating risk and enhancing financial governance within the organization.
- You should have a Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, economics, business administration, or a related field. A master's degree is preferable.
- Professional certification, such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), or Chartered Accountant (CA) is a plus.
- You should possess 12+ years of progressively responsible experience in finance or accounting roles, with a track record of increasing leadership and managerial responsibilities.
- Experience in strategic financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and analysis is essential for this role.
- You should have a strong understanding of financial reporting standards and regulations, both local and international.
- Experience managing financial operations, including overseeing accounting functions, financial reporting, and compliance, is crucial.
- Your leadership skills should be demonstrated, including the ability to lead and develop teams, communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels, and make sound financial decisions.
- Experience in risk management, internal controls, and audit processes.
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