Finance Manager – Build & Lead Finance Function

About the role

Our client is looking for a seasoned Finance Manager to build and lead the Finance & Accounts function from the ground up. The role reports directly to the CEO/Managing Director and is based in Ikeja.

Key responsibilities

• Define the structure, processes, workflows and reporting cadence for the Finance & Accounts unit.
• Own day‑to‑day accounting operations: accounts payable, accounts receivable, bank reconciliations, general ledger and month‑end close.
• Prepare accurate financial reports, management accounts, board packs and statutory submissions.
• Clean up, reconcile and organise all historical financial records to ensure audit‑readiness.
• Develop and manage annual budgets, cash‑flow forecasts and variance analysis.
• Act as primary liaison with external auditors, tax advisors, legal counsel and other consultants.
• Ensure compliance with Nigerian tax laws (CIT, VAT, WHT, PAYE, transfer pricing) and timely statutory filings.
• Implement and maintain internal financial controls, policies and procedures.
• Manage payroll processing, statutory remittances and employee‑related financial obligations.
• Evaluate and recommend improvements to financial systems and tools.
• Provide financial analysis and recommendations to support business growth and cost optimisation.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics or related discipline.
• Professional certification – ACA, ACCA or equivalent.
• 6–8 years progressive finance and accounting experience, including at least 2 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• Proven experience building or restructuring a finance function from scratch.
• Strong knowledge of Nigerian tax legislation and IFRS/Nigerian financial reporting standards.

Required skills

• Proficiency with accounting software such as QuickBooks, Sage or Xero.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Hands‑on experience with Nigerian tax compliance (CIT, VAT, WHT, PAYE, transfer pricing).
• Understanding of IFRS and Nigerian financial reporting standards.