Finance FP and A Associate Director

Reporting to the GDS Finance FP&A Lead, this position is responsible for SL Finance function for one of the Service lines cutting across countries within the GDS organization. The leader assumes both a strategic and hands-on role. The successful candidate should have a strong background in Strategic Level Financial Analysis, a solution-oriented mindset, results-driven attitude, strong influence, leadership skills, and a motivation to join a dynamic organization.

Key responsibilities for this role:

Strategic

• Contribute to defining the strategy for the GDS Client Services business unit. Serve as the key partner for relevant business leaders/stakeholders in determining strategy for the area of responsibility.
• Enable business decision capability by providing high-quality decision support analysis from a financial strategies perspective for key stakeholders.
• Ensure Finance objectives align with organization/business goals.
• Support and manage organization strategic/business improvement initiatives such as Acquisition, GDS cost optimization, Process improvements, and innovations.
• Business Budgeting/Planning and Forecasting
• Translate strategy into budget/planning and propose measurable targets.
• Oversee and manage the business budget and forecast process and report the results.
• Evaluate financial implications of various strategic decisions, build scenarios, and recommend actions.
• Business Performance
• Deliver monthly Financial performance analysis reports with actionable insights and solutions to address issues.
• Monitor progress achieved and provide insight and analysis to support operational decision-making. Identify issues and advise management on actions.
• Exhibit cost leadership and drive appropriate cost structure, and productivity optimization.
• Automation-Driven and Results-Focused: Proficient in integrating technical solutions to drive strategic business outcomes

Leadership and behavioural competencies

• Effective leadership style with a focus on building an inclusive culture and high-performing teams of global professionals.
• Ability to lead teams in different contexts and environments with an awareness of group dynamics to drive an inclusive approach.
• Relationship-building skills with internal and external stakeholders to achieve high-performance outcomes.
• Influencing skills - ability to work with ambiguity and build consensus across diverse views, cultures, and styles.
• Excellent communication and articulation skills with a focus on business development and stakeholder management.
• Strong analytical skills with problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Demonstrates passion and energy in promoting EY values and behaviours.

People Leadership and Development

Ensure the team is organized, staffed, skilled, and directed. Guide, motivate, and develop the team within GDS Talent guidelines.

Education and experience requirements

• CA or equivalent; post-graduation is desirable but not mandatory.
• Approximately 12+ years of relevant experience within a big four accounting firm or large multinational firms, with at least 4 years of experience in a senior management role.
• Experience working in a cross-border, virtual environment is preferred.
• Structured and results-driven leader with a high ability to influence the organization.
• Strategic orientation and good Change Management capability.
• Advanced written and verbal communication skills in English.