Financial Controls and Compliance Officer

We are looking for a Financial Controls and Compliance Officer for our Rwanda. He will be responsible for ensuring the integrity of the company’s financial operations, compliance with local financial regulations, and strengthening internal financial controls. This position involves overseeing financial reporting, risk management, regulatory adherence, and ensuring effective internal audits and compliance strategies for the organization. The officer will work closely with Group Finance Department at HQ- Qatar senior management to ensure that financial systems align with Rwandan legal requirements and international best practices.

Key Responsibilities:

• Financial Controls and Risk Management:
• Develop, implement, and monitor financial controls specific to the construction industry to safeguard company assets and ensure accurate financial reporting.
• Evaluate and manage risks associated with construction contracts, procurement processes, and project budgets.
• Monitor compliance with construction-specific financial regulations and internal policies to minimize financial and operational risks.
• Assess financial systems and workflows, suggesting improvements and ensuring the implementation of risk mitigation strategies.
• Regulatory Compliance and Financial Reporting:
• Ensure adherence to Rwandan financial regulations, including various tax laws, VAT, labor laws, accounting standards, and international financial reporting standards (IFRS).
• Ensure compliance with the Transfer pricing policy for Related Party Transactions.
• Prepare and review regular financial reports monthly before the 10th of the following month, including project cost reports (project profitability report), balance sheets, and cash flow statements, ensuring all reports are accurate, timely, and compliant with the regulatory framework.

3. Budgeting and Forecasting

• Assist in preparing annual budgets in coordination with department heads and senior management.
• Conduct periodic financial forecasts to anticipate revenue, expenses, and cash flow trends.
• Analyze budget vs. actual performance and provide insights on deviations.
• Contract and Project Financial Oversight:
• Oversee the financial aspects of construction contracts, ensuring proper cost controls, timely billing, Percentage of Completion, and collection of payments.
• Monitor construction project budgets, providing insights into cost overruns and suggesting corrective actions.
• Ensure ERP – Microsoft AX is in place for tracking project costs, managing procurement processes, and overseeing subcontractor payments.
• Internal Audits and Investigations:
• Lead internal audits to ensure compliance with financial controls, identifying areas of improvement or potential fraud.
• Carry out periodic Inventory and Fixed Assets verification and reporting.
• Investigate financial discrepancies or violations related to construction projects, ensuring accountability and taking corrective actions.
• Liaise with external auditors and regulatory bodies to ensure smooth audit processes and maintain compliance with local regulations.
• Policy Development and Continuous Improvement:
• Liaise with the Group Finance Department to develop, implement, and continuously improve financial control policies tailored to the construction industry.
• Ensure that company policies remain aligned with Rwandan laws and international best practices for construction companies.
• Stay updated on changes to local construction regulations, tax laws, and accounting standards, and ensure the company’s financial controls are adapted accordingly.
• Collaboration with Project Management:
• Work closely with the project management team to provide financial oversight for projects, ensuring that budgets are adhered to and that cost-effective measures are in place.
• Ensure proper financial documentation is maintained for all contracts, change orders, and project milestones.
• Training and Support:
• Provide financial controls and compliance training to relevant staff and departments involved in projects, procurement, and finance.

Foster a strong compliance culture by educating employees about financial risk management and the importance of adhering to policies and regulations

Job Requirements

• Educational Background: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Finance or Accounting is required.
• Professional Certifications: Candidates should hold a membership in CIMA, CMA, CPA, ACCA, or an equivalent professional body.
• Experience: A minimum of 15 years of professional experience in financial controls and compliance is required. For senior positions (Compliance Manager / Head of Compliance), candidates must demonstrate 8–12+ years of proven leadership experience in compliance, internal control, or risk management, preferably within the construction or related industries.
• Mobility: Willingness to work in and/or relocate to Africa is mandatory.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent