JOB TITLE:- FINANCE & OPERATIONS DIRECTOR (France & Beneulux)
LOCATION:- PARIS
SALARY:- Excellent Package DOE
JOB REF:- SM/MSH/0505009FD
A rare Senior Level opportunity with one of the industry's leading publishers. Widely respected they have a strong catalogue of both original and licence IP for all key gaming audiences including core and family.
Managing an established team the position offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the company's commercial success.
NB Games industry experience is desirable but not essential. The role would be well suited to a current Finance Director or candidate looking to move up to this level
TO APPLY FOR THIS ROLE PLEASE CONTACT matthew@specialmove.com OR CALL +44 (0)141 585 6491. YOUR DETAILS REMAIN CONFIDENTIAL AND WILL NOT BE SUBMITTED TO OUR CLIENT WITHOUT YOUR AGREEMENT
OVERVIEW
Work closely with the MD and Management Team to deliver the targeted financials for financial year. Work with the Management Team on operational and commercial issues as well as driving the business forward in growth and profitability.
· Work cross functionally providing commercial advice and support on pricing issues, contract review, business proposals, commercial issues and on-going financial management.
· Consistent implementation and development of financial strategy, financial systems, business processes and internal controls, in providing a financial infrastructure to support growth for the France and Benelux business.
· Provide flexible management and financial reporting enhancing information to support growth and change in business structure as new markets and business units evolve.
· Manage the forecasting process and forecasting tool (Hyperion) for the France and Benelux business, ensuring forecast deadlines are met, material changes are communicated, and department heads and fully involved in the process as regard cost centre accountability.
· Manage lead and develop a strong commercially focused finance department. Continue to support the personal development of individuals with commitment to management by objectives, maintaining and enhancing open communication, good appraisal and feedback practices.
· Fully exploit the ERP system (SAP) enhancing and automating reporting and transaction processing as part of a focus on continuous improvement in business processes. Promote self-support and understanding of this powerful tool along with Hyperion across all functions within the business.
· Optimise the business structure for tax and financial efficiency, legal entities, service centres, cost centre control etc. Ensure all necessary controls and fiscal company policies are in place, policed and enforced to safeguard the assets of the organization, be it the disbursement of funds via various forms of payment, use of company assets, control of inventory, cash flow (accounts receivable) etc.
· Manage the finance department to fulfill their obligations to the parent company in respect of meeting reporting deadlines and furnishing them with requested information in an efficient and informed manner.
· Provide incisive management information that supports decision making on profitability, effective marketing spend, process improvement, and highlights major action areas.
· Ensure the necessary level of knowledge and technical skills are in the team. Develop and manage effective relationships with auditors and relevant third parties to ensure:-
o All audit and statutory filing requirements are met.
o All corporation and other taxation requirements are met within the set time frames whilst working to minimize exposure to tax and penalties.
· Controlling the costs of the company, reviewing cost structures in respect to overheads, cogs and freight with a view to makings savings and efficiencies. Manage the treasury and currency requirements to minimise the company’s exposure to exchange rates. Work with the European HR Manager to formulate and introduce clear and precise guidelines for the fiscal policies of the company. This would include but not be restricted to authorisation procedures, T&E procedures etc. Implement (where required), monitor and maintain up to date company contracts (Retail & Distributor terms & conditions, 3rd party sales & distribution contracts, leasehold and office equipment contracts, Warehouse and local distribution contracts.
· Manage the supply chain from purchase to final distribution. Deal with logistics 3rd party to ensure the right level of service required by defined KPI’s. Work consistently toward reducing the cost of the logistics service while meeting these KPI’s. Drive a just-in-time strategy for all products ordered. Coordinate information with the rest of Europe to use unexploited stock if needed in your territory.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
As a guideline, time will typically be allocated to core duties as follows
On a daily basis:-
· Managing staff
· Leading key projects, shared with Other key personnel on projects.
· Validating all outgoing payments (shared with MD and European Financial Director)
· Reviewing credit limit and credit limit management
· Working with sales director to reach the financial targets.
On a weekly basis:-
· Preparing forecasts, guidance, and budget shared with MD & Head of Planning.
On a monthly basis:-
· Reviewing accounting package
· Calculating and reviewing the key A/R reserves.
On a quarterly basis
· Preparing the tax return, and solving all tax issues
CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS
Essential
Qualifications:-
· DECF - certified accountant is required.
· Master's Degree (MA) or Equivalent
Skills/Knowledge:-
· Hyperion
· Very good / Strong tax and accounting knowledge (both US and FR GAAP)
· Knowledge of Direct and Indirect Tax including Transfer Pricing.
· Experience of Managing System Implementations and development.
· Excellent management, leadership and mentoring experience.
· Sound understanding of key drivers to profitability.
· Experience being a key part of a highly driven and focused management team.
· Demonstrated experience of providing financial and commercial support and management information that facilitates decision making across the business.
· Excel
Languages:-
· Fluent English & French
Desirable
DESCF - certified accountant plus is desired.
SAP
Games Industry experience is desirable but not essential. Experience of a fast growing business within a high tech industry or the Interactive Entertainment Industry. Medium to Large size company experience.
Experience of reporting into US based Head Office