GBS Finance Director

Job description

Company Description We are SGS – the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,500 employees operate a network of 2,500 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world. Job Description The GBS Finance Manager is responsible for overseeing the accounting, statutory compliance, tax compliance, cash management, GBS recharging, financial planning, controlling, reporting, and governance activities of the Global Business Services (GBS) site. The role acts as a key business partner to the Site Leadership Team, Business and Function Managers, Global Process Owners and Global GBS Controlling organization to ensure financial transparency, cost efficiency, operational performance, and compliance with corporate standards. The GBS Finance Manager is accountable for budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, cost allocation and recharge processes, business case preparation, and legal entity financial oversight. The role also supports strategic initiatives, transformation projects, and continuous improvement activities to enhance operational and financial performance across the GBS organization. Financial Planning, Budgeting & Forecasting Lead the preparation of the site annual budget, periodic forecasts, and long-term financial outlook for the GBS / SSC site in close collaboration with Business / Function Managers, Global Process Owners, HR, Procurement, and the Global GBS Controller. Consolidate operational assumptions, workforce planning, inflation impacts, and investment requirements into robust financial plans. Challenge assumptions and proactively identify risks and opportunities impacting the site financial performance. Ensure alignment between local site objectives and the global GBS financial strategy. Financial Monitoring & Performance Management Continuously monitor actual financial performance versus budget, forecast and business cases, making sure headcount and salaries are consistent with the approved plans. Lead the preparation of a meaningful financial analyses, variance reporting, dashboards, and management presentations for local and global stakeholders. Provide actionable insights and recommendations to improve cost efficiency, productivity, and operational performance. Monitor KPIs related to cost per transaction, productivity, utilization, service delivery, and headcount evolution. Ensure financial discipline and proper cost control across all site activities. Cost Allocation & Recharge Management Manage the allocation of indirect costs using globally defined allocation methodologies and recharge keys. Coordinate and execute timely and accurate intercompany recharges to affiliates and other GBS centers, including invoices or accruals where needed. Ensure compliance with transfer pricing policies and internal charging principles. Partner with Global Finance teams to continuously improve transparency, consistency of allocation methodologies, and standard reports on recharges meaningful for the business. Business Partnering & Decision Support Act as a trusted finance business partner to the GBS Site Leadership and operational management teams. Support decision-making through financial modelling, scenario analysis, and profitability assessments. Challenge operational proposals and provide financial recommendations to support business objectives. Participate in governance meetings, operational reviews, and leadership discussions. Projects, Investments & Transformation Support Support projects related to (a) Change of scope and migration activities, (b) New service transitions, (c) Office relocations or expansions, (d) Automation and digitalization initiatives, and (e) CAPEX investments and infrastructure projects. Prepare business cases, investment analyses, ROI calculations, and financial impact assessments. Monitor project financial performance and ensure proper cost tracking and reporting. Support transformation initiatives aimed at improving efficiency, scalability, and standardization across the GBS organization. Accounting, Financial Statements & Compliance Prepare and oversee the financial statements of the GBS legal entity in compliance with local statutory requirements and group accounting policies. Coordinate month-end closing activities related to the site. Ensure the accuracy and completeness of accounting records and accruals. Support internal and external audits and act as key contact for auditors. Design, implement and enforce application of financial policies, templates and procedures compliant with internal controls, corporate governance requirements, tax regulations, and financial policies. Coordinate with Tax, Treasury, HR, Procurement, and other support functions as required. Prepare and file tax returns, support tax audits, and ensure compliance with tax and foreign exchange regulations. Cash management Continuously monitor the liquidity of the site, making sure payments related to payroll, taxes, and facilities are met without delays. Work closely with the affiliates and headquarters to ensure a fast cash cycle, and timely collection of intercompany recharges. Ensure proper controls and risk management regarding fraud, segregation of duties, foreign exchange exposure in connection to the financial products of the site. Governance, Risk & Continuous Improvement Ensure proper financial governance and adherence to company policies and procedures. Identify financial risks and proactively recommend mitigation actions. Drive continuous improvement initiatives in controlling processes, reporting automation, and data quality. Support the implementation and optimization of ERP and reporting tools. Contribute to the development of a strong performance and service-oriented culture within the GBS organization. Additional Responsibilities Support benchmarking activities and cost optimization initiatives across GBS locations. Participate in ad hoc analyses and strategic finance projects. Contribute to the preparation of presentations for senior management and executive committees. Act as backup or support for other finance functions within the GBS organization when required. Develop, Support and Maintain Regular Financial analytics and reports Lead the implementation or renewal of insurance policies and other financial contracts/instruments required for risk management. Act as supplementary legal representative for the site, within the boundaries and approvals matrix set by the bylaws of the legal entity. Qualifications Education & Experience University degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field. Professional qualification such as CPA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent is an advantage. Minimum 7–10 years of experience in finance, controlling, audit, or business partnering roles. Experience in Shared Services, Global Business Services (GBS), or multinational environments is strongly preferred. Experience managing legal entity financial statements and audits is required. Experience with intercompany accounting and cost allocation methodologies is a plus. Technical Skills Strong knowledge of financial controlling, budgeting, forecasting, and management reporting. Good understanding of accounting standards, statutory reporting, and internal controls. Solid analytical and financial modelling capabilities. Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Workday, etc.) and reporting tools. Advanced proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint. Familiarity with Power BI or other data visualization tools is an advantage. Leadership & Behavioural Competencies Strong business partnering and stakeholder management capabilities. Ability to influence and challenge senior stakeholders constructively. Excellent communication and presentation skills. Strong organizational and project management skills. Ability to work in a complex, matrix, and international environment. Proactive, hands-on, and solution-oriented mindset. High level of integrity, reliability, and attention to detail. Continuous improvement and transformation mindset. Languages Fluent in English, both written and spoken. Additional languages are considered an asset depending on the site location. Additional Information Why SGS? Global and very stable company, world leader in the TIC (Testing, Inspection and Certification) industry. SGS university and Campus for continuos learning options. Multinational environment where you will work with colleagues from multiple continents. Benefits platform. Join Us: At SGS we believe in innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. We offer a supportive and inclusive work environment that encourages professional growth and personal development. Videos To Watch