Financial Controller (Expat Role) - Nairobi

About the role

A well-established organisation operating across Africa is seeking an experienced, commercially minded Financial Controller to join its finance leadership team in Nairobi, Kenya. This is a newly created role arising from an organisational restructuring, open to an expatriate finance professional. The role covers financial governance, reporting, business performance and strategic decision-making, supporting operations across complex African markets.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the financial control and reporting function
• Prepare and review monthly, quarterly and annual financial statements
• Drive budgeting, forecasting and financial planning
• Monitor business performance and give strategic financial insights
• Develop and strengthen internal controls, policies and governance frameworks
• Manage cash flow, working capital and treasury activities
• Support commercial and operational leadership with financial decisions
• Oversee audit processes and ensure statutory compliance
• Identify ways to improve profitability, efficiency and performance
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders

Required profile

• Degree in Finance, Accounting, Commerce, Economics or a related field
• CA(SA), ACCA, CPA, CIMA or similar qualification advantageous but not essential
• Minimum 7-8 years in Financial Control, Finance Management, Commercial Finance or related leadership roles
• Experience in African markets; previous exposure to West Africa, the DRC or similar emerging markets is highly advantageous
• Managing finance functions across multiple jurisdictions is beneficial
• Fluent French is non-negotiable; strong English is essential
• Commercially minded, comfortable in complex African business environments, able to balance strategy with hands-on work, and experienced in cross-cultural stakeholder engagement