VP, Finance - MENA

Job Summary:

VP, Finance – MENA (VP) will lead Hikma’s MENA finance operations encompassing financial reporting, planning and analysis, treasury and cash management, tax, audit and financial compliance across all the MENA sites’ finance functions, shaping their strategy and goals, as well as identifying and managing financial risks and implementing effective controls.
As a member of the Finance Leadership Team of the Group, the VP will play a critical role in setting the global finance strategy and steer the execution in MENA. 

The VP will also be collaborating closely with business leadership, providing financial insights to guide strategic decision-making and executing business strategy, and fostering relationships with both internal and external stakeholders.

Key Accountabilities:

• Financial Operations Leadership and Strategy: Develop and implement the finance strategy for the MENA region, ensuring alignment with the global finance vision and cross-functional business objectives and oversee finance operations across MENA including accounting, reporting, planning & analysis, treasury, tax and others.
• Policies, Processes & Procedures: Establish and ensure adherence to robust finance policies, processes, and controls, delivering objectives while maintaining compliance with all relevant regulations and internal standards. Standardize finance processes and systems across the region, driving continuous improvement initiatives.
• Financial Integrity and Quality: Safeguard the integrity and quality of the finance process and reports of the region, segment and companies operating within it, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and Hikma’s financial policies and procedures. Manage the preparation of financial statements, reports, and analyses in compliance with GAAP and IFRS, while overseeing the external audit process and ensuring timely completion of local audits.
• Business Partnering and Stakeholder Management: Provide financial leadership to business units, supporting strategic decision-making and fostering relationships with key external stakeholders, including lenders, customers, and regulatory bodies. Actively contribute as a member of the MENA Leadership Team, offering financial insights to optimize business performance and support strategic initiatives.
• Financial Planning & Commercial Finance: Lead the budgeting and planning processes across the region in collaboration with local and segmental functions, ensuring accurate forecasts and strategic business plans. Oversee financial aspects of business operations, including market analysis, inventory management, pricing strategies, and provisions controls (e.g., bad debt, slow-moving inventory, sales commissions).
• Risk Management and Control: Proactively identify and mitigate financial and operational risks specific to the segment, including currency, credit and compliance risks while ensuring efficient controls and adherence to corporate governance standards.
• Treasury & Cash Management: Manage regional treasury operations, including cash management, currency risks, credit, and working capital, in coordination with Corporate Treasury.
• Tax and Compliance: Ensure full compliance with local tax regulations across MENA markets, and support external and internal audits to ensure financial compliance in coordination with the group Tax department.
• Operational Efficiency and Cost Management: Drive operational efficiency and managing costs, by analyzing financial information and working closely with operational leaders to implement best practices.
• M&A and Business Development: Evaluate and provide recommendations on M&A opportunities in the MENA region, overseeing financial due diligence and ensuring smooth post-acquisition integration.
• Team Leadership and Development: Build and lead a high-performing finance team, fostering an environment of continuous development and ensuring the team is well-equipped to meet objectives.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in finance or accounting and/or CPA license or MBA.
• Minimum 15 years of experience in senior-level finance or accounting position with at least 4 years of progressive managerial experience.
• Preferred experience in the Pharma industry, specifically in key markets such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt or Algeria.
• Deep knowledge of financial reporting, accounting standards, audits, planning, and analysis, with expertise in multinational finance operations
• Proven experience in finance operations in the MENA region, including foreign exchange risk management, taxation, and regulatory compliance across multiple markets.
• Ability to navigate the complex political and economic landscape of the MENA region, with experience managing diverse business models and local market dynamics.
• Experience in strategic planning, M&A activities, and operational efficiency initiatives.
• Strong familiarity with Middle Eastern culture and business practices.
• Demonstrated strategic thinking, adaptability, and resilience.
• Exceptional communication, influencing skills, and building trust with business leaders.
• Strong analytical and decision-making capabilities.
• Leadership and inspiration skills.