Global Finance Business Partner at CABI (Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International)

THE ROLE:

Reporting to the CFO, The Global Finance Business Partner (GFBP) will play a pivotal role in driving financial performance and strategy across multiple regions and business units. This role is responsible for partnering with senior management to provide insightful financial analysis, strategic planning, and decision support. The GFBP will ensure alignment of financial goals with business objectives and enhance the overall financial health of the organization. It requires strong business acumen and excellent communication.

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

Business Partnering:

• Act as a trusted advisor to business leaders, providing financial expertise and guidance on key business decisions.
• Collaborate with regional and business unit leaders to drive performance improvements and achieve financial targets.
• Support cross-functional teams in evaluating new business opportunities, investments, and strategic projects.

Strategic Planning:

• Contribute to the development and execution of the company’s strategic plan, ensuring financial considerations are integrated into business strategies.
• Identify and assess financial risks and opportunities, and recommend actions to mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities.
• Support M&A activities, including financial due diligence, integration planning, and post-acquisition performance tracking.

Financial Planning and Analysis:

• Lead the development and implementation of robust financial planning processes including budgeting, forecasting and analytics.
• Analyse financial results, identify trends, and provide actionable insights to senior management.
• Develop and maintain financial models to support strategic initiatives and business cases.

Performance Management:

• Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track financial and operational performance.
• Provide regular performance updates to senior management and recommend corrective actions where necessary.
• Lead initiatives to improve financial processes and systems, driving efficiency and effectiveness.

Reporting and Compliance:

• Oversee the preparation of accurate and timely financial reports for internal and external stakeholders in line with commitments.

Team Leadership:

• Manage and mentor a team of finance professionals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.
• Promote collaboration and knowledge sharing across the global finance team.
• Ensure the team delivers high-quality financial support to the business.

ABOUT YOU:
Key Competencies

• Strategic Orientation: Ability to develop and implement long-term financial strategies aligned with organisational goals.
• Leadership: Strong leadership and team management skills, with a focus on developing talent and driving high performance.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly and concisely.
• Analytical Thinking: Advanced analytical skills to interpret financial data, identify trends, and make informed recommendations.
• Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and build strong relationships across the organization.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing business needs and priorities, and to work effectively in a global, multicultural environment
• Proven experience as a Finance Business Partner, Financial Analyst, or similar role in a global organization.
• Strong financial modeling, analysis, and reporting skills.

Experience and Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field; MBA and relevant professional certification (e.g., CPA, CFA) preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in finance or accounting, with at least 5 years in a senior finance business partnering role.
• Proven experience as a Finance Business Partner, Financial Analyst, or similar role in a global organization.
• Proficiency in financial software and systems, including advanced Excel skills; experience with ERP systems is a plus
• Proven experience in a global or matrix multinational organization, with strong relationship building skills.