Full job descriptionClient Finance Lead
London
£75,000 - £85,000
Permanent


Sterling Williams are working alongside a global commercial real estate and investment management firm, they are seeking a permanent member of staff to join the team.


Role summary


The Client Finance Lead is a senior leadership role, with oversight of a key client account within a dynamic industry vertical. The Client Finance Lead is the financial liaison between the Operational Team and the Client. Responsible for the implementation and execution of accounting processes and programs designed to ensure the appropriate level of accuracy, tracking and control over the operating expenses and capital expenditures of the client account. They are also responsible for accounting compliance, and all Corporate finance deliverables for the client account including budgeting, forecasting and monthly variance analysis.


Responsibilities
Strategic Direction & Management:


*Provide clear direction and strategic financial advice to the team working on the Client.
*Liaise and support the Client’s primary financial managers/units.
*Ensure the team is structured to maintain & exceed the client’s financial expectations.
*Develop and maintain all relevant policies and procedures with respect to all financial & support services associated with the Client.
*Implement all new processes and procedures as required by the finance dept.


Relationship Management:


*Be proactive in developing and managing client / business unit relationships ensuring that the expected service levels are achieved across the region.
*Encourage an environment that supports teamwork, financial transparency, co-operation & performance excellence across the region.
*Lead and coach Finance Operations team to ensure high staff morale, trust, work ethics, clear goals and performance reviews.
*Manage relationship with central finance & ensure a good working relationship


Budgeting and Reporting - both Corporate and Client:


Ensure that accurate and timely financial information is provided to all members of the management team.
Production of annual budgets in conjunction with the team and client finance team.
Understand the Client’s accounting structure and system.
Develop, maintain & deliver in a timely manner, the Client’s approved financial reports across the region.
Coordinate and track cost savings initiatives


Data Management, Policies & Procedures & Audit:


*Ensure data integrity of the systems across the region and audit data from time to time
*Ensure that appropriate process, systems controls and controls are in place and maintained to guarantee the integrity of all transactions
*Ensure that all financial accounting and reporting is audit worthy and in keeping with recognized quality management processes
*Ensure all finance staff are well trained on the financial systems & are effectively able to extract data


Reporting:


*Balance Sheet and P&L reporting
*Ownership on the profitability of the client account
*Ensure data integrity of the balance sheet
*Ensure accurate and timely cash flow completion
*Manage and optimise the efficiency and effectiveness of finance processes
*Ensure robust financial controls in place including Cash Reconciliations, all Balance sheet reconciliations & compliance with SOX reporting
*Production of annual budgets in conjunction with the team and client finance team
*Ensure data integrity of the balance sheet for both the client and Corporate
*Ensure accurate and timely cash flow completion


Invoice Payment & Processing:


*Ensure the management of payment of all operating invoices in a timely manner, in accordance with legal obligations
*Develop and maintain all necessary guidelines and manuals associated with the Clients payable / receivable process
*Ensure the timely processing of the invoices, including monitoring the Clients receivable


Requirements:


*Qualified Accountant
*Background in Corporate Real Estate
*Minimum of five years’ experience in a similar position
*Previous EMEA or international experience essential
*English language essential, Polish or other language a plus
*Solid experience of accounting and banking systems
*Demonstrated financial competency at both a strategic & detailed level of operation
*Decision maker - motivated by & objectives focused
*Demonstrated competency in planning & management