Job Description

Head of Finance (Middle East, South Asia)



Missions

SPORTFIVE is a global sports marketing agency that delivers customer-centric solutions based on trust and transparency, deep industry experience and global relationships, digital intelligence and innovation. SPORTFIVE strategically and creatively connects brands, rights-holders, media platforms and fans to create and enable contemporary partnerships in sports.
While creating and growing long-term value for all, SPORTFIVE often leads the sports business into the future through innovative digital solutions and strives to be the most progressive and respected partner in sports.
In Asia, SPORTFIVE has over 30 years of proven performance with offices in Singapore, Sydney, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Seoul. The industry leading agency specialises in delivering a comprehensive range of solutions and services for brands, right-holders and fans across the whole value chain. With dedicated teams focused on media and brand-led sales, content production, turn-key event management, design studio, digital marketing and activation, SPORTFIVE is well placed to support brands and rights-holders in creating valuable partnerships in the region.
SPORTFIVE operates with a global mindset and network of over 1,200 local experts based in 15 countries around the world, active in Football, Golf, Esports, Motorsport, Handball, Tennis, American Football, Basketball, Ice Hockey, Rugby, Olympics and Multi-Sport Events and many more.
Overview of this position :
This is a newly created Head of Finance position where you will play a key role in overseeing all finance operations and be part of the local leadership team for an expanding Middle East, South Asia region.

This will be a hands-on role in a newly set-up office in Dubai, UAE.


Duties & Areas of Responsibilities :
• Financial Planning & Analysis:
+ Develop and implement financial plans, budgets, and forecasts aligned with the firm's strategic objectives.
+ Conduct thorough financial analysis to identify areas for improvement and optimize financial performance. Provide insights and recommendations to senior management based on analysis.
+ Prepare & ensure timely submission of all required presentations, financial reporting & deliverables

• Stakeholder management:
+ Work closely with internal stakeholders (local commercial departments & regional finance team)
+ Manage relationships with external stakeholders (external consultants, tax agent, auditor, banks)

• Financial strategy & modelling:
+ Develop and execute the financial strategy aligned with growth objectives
+ Build robust financial models to support any new business / M&A planning, scenario analysis, and investment decisions.

• Finance Operations
+ Oversee all financial reporting, accounting processes, and compliance matters in accordance with regulatory requirements.
+ Oversee all month-end and year-end closing processes alongside in-house finance manager and external consultants.
+ Oversee all processes relating to new company set up within the region from tax, structuring aspects etc. Taking help from external consultants where required & being the key liaison person driving such processes.

• Treasury management
+ Manage cash flow, liquidity, and financial risk by monitoring and forecasting cash flows and investments.
+ Maintain relationships with banks to ensure access to appropriate financing options.

• Risk Management:
+ Assess and mitigate financial risks through effective policies and controls.
+ Align and comply with legal and group finance policy requirements.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to streamline business & finance processes/reporting & improve efficiencies through better utilisation of automated systems




Educational background:
• Degree or professional qualification in Accounting, Finance or a related discipline



Experience:
• At least 8 years of experience in a similar role, preferably in a similar industry (Media, Sports, Entertainment)




Skill & competencies:
• Strong technical knowledge on finance & accounting matters
• Strong understanding on the financial operations, structuring, tax regulations & compliance in the Middle East, South Asia region (India, UAE & Saudi Arabia)
• Strong excel skills, financial modelling experience will be a plus.
• Knowledge of Arabic will be a plus
• Demonstrates good judgement & problem solving skills
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.
• Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to accuracy and integrity in financial reporting.

Job Conditions


This role is located on site at our Dubai - CNN Building office.


Category
Finance / Accounting


Type of contract

Regular


Contract start date

08/01/2024


Reference


1731