Director, Financial Control

Director, Financial Control

London Full-Time 72000 - 100000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead financial reporting and ensure compliance with accounting standards.
  • Company: Join EBRD, a pioneering international organisation making a real difference in people's lives.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid workplace, competitive benefits, and a culture that prioritises wellbeing and sustainability.
  • Why this job: Be part of a diverse team driving innovation and positive change in finance.
  • Qualifications: Must be a qualified Chartered Accountant with significant experience in finance.
  • Other info: Opportunity to work with senior management and influence key financial strategies.

The predicted salary is between 72000 - 100000 £ per year.

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Contract Type Fixed Term , can be renewed for another 4 years

Contract Length 4 years

Posting End Date 10/09/2025

Purpose of Purpose of Job

The role holder is responsible for ensuring that the business activities of the EBRD (the Bank) and the donor funds under its management are accounted for in compliance with the applicable accounting rules and that their respective financial statements receive a positive unqualified opinion of external auditors. The role holder coordinates the Bank’s audited sustainability reporting, and oversees the work of the Market Data and Product Analysis team (MDPA) and the production of daily financial reporting for the Bank’s treasury activities.

The role acts as a senior point of contact for other departments around the Bank to offer advice and guidance on accounting issues. The role holder ensures that appropriate personnel, systems, processes and controls are in place to discharge the overall responsibilities of the Financial Control team. The role holder must have a strong grasp of the Bank’s business activities to ensure that the accounting teams can provide the requisite management information to those businesses.

Background

The accounting teams within Finance – Strategy, Planning & Control (FSPC) are responsible for the preparation of periodic and annual financial reports on behalf of the Bank and over 200 Donor Funds which the Bank administrates. They maintain the financial records for each and provide timely and accurate information on financial performance and financial position. This information enables management to evaluate historic performance, assess the current position and formulate strategy.

This position oversees the accounting teams responsible for the Bank’s financial reporting. The person represents the Bank’s accounting function at the ‘steering committee’ level on cross-departmental task forces and deputises for the Managing Director, Head of Finance (MD Finance) on issues related to financial reporting. Key relationships are with senior management in IT, Risk Management, Operations and Service Management (OSM), Donor Partnerships and Treasury. Working with Treasury, in particular, requires a strong understanding of their business model, including funding strategy, local currency sourcing and liquidity management. The person is also routinely asked to review and contribute to various financial strategy and policy documents issued by FSPC.

The person is the key point of contact with the Bank’s external auditor and leads discussions on the Bank’s approach to complex and contentious aspects of accounting rules.

The role oversees the production of audited sustainability reporting at the Bank. In 2025 EBRD will publish its first audited ISSB report.

The role also oversees the Market Data and Product Analysis MDPA team, monitoring that financial contracts are captured accurately in the Bank’s systems, ensuring that market data is available/accurate to value these and that valuations are disseminated and used appropriately.

Facts / Scale

  • Responsible for the Bank’s accounting teams, consisting of around 20 full-time qualified chartered accountants augmented with additional accountants, as required, during peak reporting periods.
  • Further line management responsibilities for MDPA (3 staff) and Sustainability Reporting (1 staff).
  • Five direct reports in total with occasional additions for project work.
  • Responsible for the accounting for all transactions of the Bank and its donor funds. The Bank has a balance sheet size of circa €90 billion and an annual P&L of up to €2.5 billion.

Accountabilities & Responsibilities

  • Leads the production and editing of the year-end financial statements for the Bank and donor funds, ensuring that all requisite information has been incorporated in order to ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards (IFRS in the case of the Bank financial statements).
  • Leads the production and editing of the year-end ISSB report, ensuring that all requisite information has been incorporated in order to ensure compliance.
  • Approves the Bank’s monthly and quarterly management reports prior to their issuance to the Bank’s senior management team.
  • Holds the overall responsibility for design and operation of effective controls within the Financial Control team.
  • Ensures that all new IFRS introduced by the IASB/ISSB are assessed by the relevant accounting team for their impact on the Bank’s financial reporting. Reviews and approves all conclusions and recommendations.
  • Manages the relationship with the external auditor and is the key point of contact for the audit process.
  • Sets high-level objectives for the Bank’s accounting teams and contributes to the formulation of strategic objectives for the FSPC department.
  • Represents the Bank’s accounting function at the “Chief Accountants Forum’ among the MDB community.
  • Represents the Bank’s accounting function internally on key project steering committees and chairs committees where appropriate.
  • Takes lead on resolving difficult and/or contentious issues with the external auditor relating to IFRS interpretation and implementation.
  • Provides advice to senior management across the Bank on accounting matters and leads representative for FSPC in the Bank’s new product processes.
  • Acts as product owner for core accounting IT systems (SAP).
  • Deputises for MD Finance on matters related to financial reporting, including at the meetings of the Bank’s Executive Committee and the Board’s Audit and Risk Committee.
  • Directly accountable for the engagement and effective overall management of staff, including recruitment, compensation (as agreed with the MD Finance), performance management, coaching and development.
  • Champions and role models the Bank’s Workplace Behaviours, ensuring adherence within the team so that the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct are exhibited at all times.
  • Leads by example and promotes effective partnership to ensure productive co-operation, collaboration and working relationships between Financial Control, other departments in the Bank and external stakeholders.
  • Drives and supports the Bank’s transformation agenda with regard to automation, efficiencies and cross-functional collaboration.

Knowledge, Skills, Experience & Qualifications

  • Educated to degree level or equivalent
  • Chartered Accountant qualified or equivalent
  • Fluent English language skills, both verbal and written
  • Significant senior experience within Finance function of a financial institution, with strong understanding of banking businesses and principles of risk management and Treasury functions
  • Articulate and confident communicator with ability to influence
  • Experienced people manager with demonstrable skill in fostering team collaboration, cohesion, and talent development.
  • Strong leadership qualities
  • Experience in implementing and embedding change and commitment to continuous improvement.
  • Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret financial information
  • Ability to represent Bank’s viewpoint on IFRS interpretation and lead related discussions with external auditor.

What is it like to work at the EBRD? / About EBRD

Our agile and innovative approach is what makes life at the EBRD a unique experience! You will be part of a pioneering and diverse international organisation, and use your talents to make a real difference to people\’s lives and help shape the future of the regions we invest in.

At EBRD, our Values – Inclusiveness, Innovation, Trust, and Responsibility – are at the heart of how we work. We bring these to life through our Workplace Behaviours: listening well and speaking up, collaborating smartly, acting decisively with full commitment, and simplifying to amplify our impact. These principles shape our culture and define our success. We seek individuals who not only share these values but are also committed to embedding them in their daily work, fostering a positive and high-performing environment.

The EBRD environment provides you with:

  • Varied, stimulating and engaging work that gives you an opportunity to interact with a wide range of experts in the financial, political, public and private sectors across the regions we invest in.
  • A working culture that embraces inclusion and celebrates diversity. Our workforce reflects a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, bringing fresh ideas, energy, and innovation and enhancing our ability to serve our clients, shareholders, and counterparties effectively.
  • A hybrid workplace that offers flexibility to teams and individuals; that is based on trust, flexibility and connectedness.
  • An environment that places sustainability, equality and digital transformation at the heart of what we do.
  • A workplace that prioritises employee wellbeing and provides a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits.

Diversity is one of the Bank’s core values which are at the heart of everything it does. As such, the EBRD seeks to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities and works in an inclusive environment. The EBRD encourages all qualified candidates who are nationals of the EBRD member countries to apply regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious and cultural background, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, socio-economic background or disability.

Please note, that due to the high volume of applications received, we regret to inform you that we are unable to provide detailed feedback to candidates who have not been shortlisted (for further consideration).

Job Segment: Bank, Banking, Sustainability, Risk Management, Financial, Finance, Energy

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Director, Financial Control employer: European Bank for Reconstruction and Development

At EBRD, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of inclusiveness, innovation, and responsibility. Our dynamic work environment offers employees the chance to engage with diverse experts across various sectors, while our commitment to employee wellbeing is reflected in our comprehensive benefits package and flexible hybrid working arrangements. Join us to not only advance your career but also make a meaningful impact in the regions we serve.
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Contact Detail:

European Bank for Reconstruction and Development Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Director, Financial Control

✨Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the finance and banking sectors, especially those who have experience with financial control roles. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in financial reporting and sustainability.

✨Tip Number 2

Familiarise yourself with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) guidelines. Being well-versed in these standards will not only enhance your understanding but also demonstrate your commitment to compliance and excellence in financial reporting.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you foster collaboration within teams. The role requires managing diverse teams, so showcasing your ability to develop talent and promote a positive work environment will be crucial during interviews.

✨Tip Number 4

Research the EBRD's recent projects and initiatives, particularly those related to sustainability and financial innovation. Being knowledgeable about the organisation's goals and values will help you align your responses during interviews and show your genuine interest in contributing to their mission.

We think you need these skills to ace Director, Financial Control

Chartered Accountant qualification
Strong understanding of IFRS and ISSB standards
Financial Reporting Expertise
Leadership and People Management
Analytical Skills
Communication Skills
Stakeholder Management
Risk Management Knowledge
Experience in Treasury Functions
Project Management
Change Management
Ability to influence and negotiate
Team Collaboration and Development
Attention to Detail
Strategic Thinking

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in financial control and accounting. Emphasise your qualifications as a Chartered Accountant and any senior roles you've held in finance, particularly within financial institutions.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, clearly articulate your understanding of the EBRD's mission and values. Discuss how your skills and experiences align with the responsibilities of the Director, Financial Control role, especially your ability to manage relationships with external auditors and lead financial reporting.

Showcase Leadership Experience: Highlight your leadership qualities and experience in managing teams. Provide examples of how you've fostered collaboration and talent development within your previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.

Demonstrate Analytical Skills: Include specific instances where you've successfully interpreted complex financial information or implemented changes that improved financial processes. This will showcase your analytical skills and commitment to continuous improvement, which are key for this role.

How to prepare for a job interview at European Bank for Reconstruction and Development

✨Understand the Role Thoroughly

Before the interview, make sure you have a deep understanding of the responsibilities and expectations of the Director, Financial Control position. Familiarise yourself with the EBRD's financial reporting processes, sustainability reporting, and the specific accounting standards they adhere to.

✨Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect to be asked about your knowledge of IFRS and how it applies to the Bank's financial statements. Brush up on recent changes in accounting standards and be ready to discuss how these might impact the Bank's reporting.

✨Showcase Leadership Experience

As this role involves managing teams and influencing senior management, be prepared to share examples of your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Highlight any experience you have in fostering collaboration and driving change.

✨Demonstrate Communication Skills

Effective communication is key in this role. Be ready to discuss how you would approach complex discussions with external auditors or senior management. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, as this will be crucial during the interview.

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