Finance Director - Nairobi, Kenya - PULA
Description
ABOUT THE COMPANY
Pula is an agricultural insurance and technology company that designs and delivers innovative agricultural insurance and digital products to help smallholder farmers endure yield risks, improve their farming practices, and bolster their incomes over time.
JOB SUMMARY
Requirements:Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field. An MBA, CPA, CFA certification is preferred, demonstrating advanced knowledge and expertise in financial management.Experience: Minimum of 10 years of proven experience as a financial leader in a hyper-growth company environment. Candidates should have a track record of driving financial strategy and operational efficiency in dynamic and rapidly evolving organizations.Strategic Thinking: Strong strategic thinking skills, with the ability to assess market trends, identify growth opportunities, and develop innovative financial solutions. Candidates should demonstrate a proactive approach to problem-solving and decision-making in complex business environments.Analytical Skills: Exceptional analytical skills and proficiency in interpreting financial data and metrics. Candidates should be able to conduct in-depth financial analysis, forecast future trends, and provide strategic insights to support organizational objectives.Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential for this role. Candidates should be able to effectively communicate complex financial concepts to diverse stakeholders, including senior leadership, investors, and external partners.Financial Software Proficiency: Proficiency in financial software and emerging technologies is required. Candidates should have hands-on experience with financial management systems, data analytics tools, and reporting software to drive operational efficiency and informed decision-making.Leadership and Team Management: Proven leadership skills and the ability to mentor and develop a high-performing finance team. Candidates should have a collaborative leadership style, fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement within the finance function.Adaptability and Resilience: Demonstrated ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment characterized by rapid growth and change. Candidates should be adaptable and resilient, with the flexibility to navigate ambiguity and drive results in evolving business landscapes.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic LeadershipMentor and develop the finance function, setting a strategic department vision and scalable organizational model.Act as a strategic business partner to the CEO, Board of Directors, and senior leadership team at Pula.Evaluate financial performance against short-term & long-term operational goals, budgets, and forecasts.Identify growth opportunities and strategic partnerships to drive business expansion.Manage financial aspects of fundraising activities and evaluate potential mergers and acquisitions. (if needed)Financial Budgeting, Planning & Analysis:Prepare and present monthly financial budgeting reports, analyzing profit and loss and cash flow projections.Conduct analysis of business initiatives, product launches, and new service offerings.Develop risk management strategies and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.Explore new investment opportunities and provide recommendations on potential returns and risks.Develop systems to manage budgets vs Actuals and align on key performance indicators and key cost drivers.Financial ManagementManage cash flow planning process and ensure funds availability.Explore new investment opportunities and provide recommendations on potential returns and risks.Maintain outstanding banking relationships and strategic alliances with vendors and business partners.Build and utilize forward-looking models and activity-based analyses to providefinancial insight into the organization's plans and operating budgets.Represent the company to banks, financial partners, institutions, public auditors, and officials.Remain current on audit best practices globally as well at country state, federal, and local laws.Work alongside business leaders to set up legal and financial compliance across all markets we operate inInnovation and Technology IntegrationChampion the adoption of innovative financial tools and technologies to streamline processes and enhance efficiency.Collaborate with other departments to integrate financial systems and automate routine tasks.Stay abreast of emerging financial technologies and trends, evaluating their potential impact on business operations.Stakeholder Engagement and CommunicationServe as a key member of the senior leadership team, providing strategic financial guidance and insights.Cultivate strong relationships with investors, board members, internal and external stakeholders.Communicate financial performance and strategic initiatives effectively, translating complex financial concepts into actionable insights.Sustainability and ImpactDrive sustainability initiatives across financial operations, integrating environmental, social, and governance considerations.Lead the development and implementation of responsible investment strategies aligned with the organization's values and objectives.Measure and report on key performance indicators related to sustainability and impact.Talent Development and CultureDevelop a high-performing finance team through mentorship, coaching, and professional development opportunities.Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement within the finance function.Recruit and retain top talent, ensuring alignment with the organization's values and strategic objectives.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Project management, Budgeting, financial planning, Auditing of accounts, Partnerships, Financial analysis, Team leadership
REQUIRED EDUCATION
Post-graduate education
