Purpose and MissionThe Finance Director SWS Americas will be responsible for all financial management and accounting activities across SWS Americas. (USA & Colombia).
The successful candidate will be an integral part of the Americas senior management team, identifying opportunities and risks and helping formulate the region's plans to deliver the strategy & business growth objectives. These includes to analyze costs of materials, processes, and labor to determine methods of optimizing costs and expanding value to our customers. This position plays a critical role in ensuring strong financial governance, delivering accurate insights, and supporting strategic decision-making across SWS Americas.
Key Activities and Responsibilities- Lead and develop a high-performing finance team, providing clear direction, coaching, and succession planning.
- Drive financial planning, forecasting, and budgeting processes, ensuring alignment with business strategy.
- Oversee monthly close and reporting, delivering accurate, timely, and insightful financial analysis.
- Provide actionable items which can improve the financial performance of the Business Unit and Region.
- Work with other Regional Finance Directors to ensure alignment on Global goals of the Business Unit.
- Act as a strategic business partner to senior leadership, influencing decisions through data-driven insights.
- Ensure compliance with US GAAP, internal policies, and regulatory requirements.
- Lead internal and external audits and manage relationships with auditors and tax advisors.
- Optimize working capital, cash flow, and financial performance across the business.
- Evaluate and approve capital investments aligned with strategic objectives.
- Drive continuous improvement and finance transformation initiatives, leveraging systems such as SAP.
- Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Perform ad-hoc analytics as required to drive the business.
Skills- Strong ability to analyze financial data and provide actionable insights.
- Excellent communication skills to effectively convey financial information to regional and senior management.
- Proven leadership skills to manage and develop regional finance teams.
- Ability to think strategically and align regional financial planning with overall business objectives.
- Proficiency in financial software and tools, such as ERP systems and advanced Excel.
- Master's degree in finance, accounting, or related discipline.
- CPA or equivalent professional certification is a plus.
- Strong knowledge of US GAAP and financial reporting standards.
- Strong strategic thinking and commercial acumen.
- Proven leadership and team development capabilities.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
- Ability to translate complex financial information into clear business insights.
- High integrity, accountability, and results orientation.
Previous Experience- 8-10+ years of progressive finance leadership experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
- Strong knowledge of US GAAP and financial reporting standards.
- Experience working in a matrixed global organization.
- Advanced financial analysis and business partnering skills.
- Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and data analytics tools.
- Ability to travel 30%, including international travel
- Manage a team of 4 direct reports including performance review and developmental support.
Qualifications and Education- Master's degree in finance, accounting, or related discipline.
- CPA or equivalent professional certification is a plus.
- 8-10+ years of progressive finance leadership experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
- Advanced financial analysis and business partnering skills.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
- Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and data analytics tools.
- High integrity, accountability, and results orientation.
- Spanish is a plus
