Client Finance Lead / Business Partner

Sterling Williams are working alongside a global commercial real estate and facilities management business who are seeking a permanent member of staff to join the team as a Client Finance Lead / Business Partner. The successful candidate will have experience in facilities management / corporate real estate and will be working alongside the Account Director, and Global FD on a key client account.

The Client Finance Lead is a senior finance 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 will include:

• Strategic Direction & Management
  • Provide clear direction and strategic financial advice to the team working on the Client.
  • Liaise and support the Clients primary financial managers/units.
  • Ensure the team is structured to maintain & exceed the clients 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.
• 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 Clients accounting structure and system.
  • Develop, maintain & deliver in a timely manner, the Clients approved financial reports across the region.
• 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.
• 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/The successful candidate will have:

• Qualified Accountant (ACA/CIMA/ACCA or equivalent).
• Background in Corporate Real Estate and/or facilities management.
• Minimum of five years experience in a similar position - having experience of partnering and reporting/forecasting/budgeting on behalf of a client account is essential.
• Previous EMEA or international experience essential - having worked in a matrix environment would be helpful.
• English language essential, Polish or other language would be beneficial, but not essential.
• 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.