Financial Control Manager

Job Summary:

The Manager, Financial Controls & Systems, is responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, and maintenance of robust financial controls and efficient financial systems within Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZA). This role ensures compliance with regulatory and internal policies, supports accurate financial reporting, drives continuous improvements through process automation and ERP system enhancements, and leads the development and enforcement of finance policies, procedures, and governance frameworks. The manager plays a critical role in safeguarding QFZA's financial integrity and enhancing operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Controls Management

• Develop, implement, and monitor internal financial controls aligned with IFRS, Qatari regulations, and QFZA policies.
• Design and implement comprehensive finance policies and procedures, ensuring consistent application across the organization.
• Establish and maintain the finance governance framework, including delegation of authority policies and approval workflows.
• Conduct regular reviews of financial processes to identify control gaps and recommend corrective actions.
• Lead compliance initiatives related to financial policies, procedures, governance, and regulatory requirements.
• Partner with internal and external auditors to facilitate audit activities and address audit findings promptly.

2. Systems Management & Optimization

• Manage ERP system functionality related to financial modules, ensuring data integrity and optimal performance.
• Lead enhancements, upgrades, and integration projects for ERP and financial reporting systems.
• Collaborate with IT and finance teams to identify opportunities for process automation and digital transformation.
• Provide training and support to finance staff on system functionalities and updates.

3. Reporting & Risk Management Support

• Support accurate and timely financial reporting by ensuring proper system controls and reconciliations are in place.
• Assist in risk assessment exercises related to financial systems, controls, and governance frameworks.
• Develop and maintain documentation of financial processes, controls, policies, and system workflows.

4. Stakeholder Collaboration

• Work closely with Accounting, Treasury, Commercial Finance, and Projects teams to ensure controls, policies, governance, and systems meet operational needs.
• Liaise with external vendors, consultants, and auditors as required for system audits, governance reviews, and upgrades.
• Provide guidance and support to finance teams on control, system, and governance compliance.

5. Continuous Improvement & Best Practices

• Stay updated on best practices and emerging trends in financial controls, ERP systems, governance, and compliance.
• Proactively recommend and implement improvements to enhance control effectiveness, governance, and operational efficiency.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Information Systems, or related field; professional certifications such as CPA, CMA, or CISA preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in financial controls, internal audit, finance governance, or finance systems management, preferably within government, free zones, or real estate sectors.
• Strong knowledge of IFRS, internal control frameworks (e.g., COSO), finance governance frameworks, and financial compliance requirements.
• Experience with ERP systems such as Microsoft Dynamics, SAP, Oracle, or NetSuite.
• Proficient in data analysis, process mapping, and reporting tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI).

Preferred Attributes:

• Experience working within a Free Zones Authority or similar government/semi-government organization.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with great attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deliver timely results in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.