Job Description
We are seeking an exceptional and strategic Head of Finance to join the leadership team. As a trusted partner to the President of North America and a key member of the regional leadership team, this individual will provide financial leadership and guidance to drive sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and long-term success. The Head of Finance will oversee all financial activities across North America, including budget planning, long-range financial strategy, and financial reporting, ensuring alignment with the company's global goals and values. This role will also focus on connecting and aligning North America entities, providing leadership and guidance to site finance teams to foster collaboration and drive cohesive financial management.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Financial Leadership:
Serve as a strategic partner and advisor to the President of North America, contributing to the development and execution of the region's business strategy. Lead the financial planning process, including annual budgets, long-range planning, and scenario analysis, to support strategic decision-making. Provide actionable insights and recommendations based on financial analysis to enhance profitability, operational performance, and growth opportunities. Collaborate with the global finance team to ensure alignment with corporate goals, compliance, and reporting standards. Financial Management & Reporting:
Oversee the preparation and presentation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports for North America. Ensure compliance with all relevant accounting standards, regulations, and internal controls. Monitor financial performance against budgets, forecasts, and key performance indicators, identifying trends and variances. Drive continuous improvement in financial reporting processes, tools, and systems to enhance accuracy and efficiency. Operational Leadership:
Lead and mentor the North America finance team, fostering a high-performance culture and professional development opportunities. Provide guidance and support to site finance leads, ensuring alignment of processes, goals, and reporting standards across all North America entities. Partner with cross-functional leaders at the NALT to optimize financial outcomes and resource allocation. Develop and implement policies and procedures to strengthen internal controls and mitigate financial risks. Business Partnership & Decision Support:
Act as a thought leader and partner to operational teams, providing financial expertise in areas such as pricing, product development, and market expansion. Lead financial due diligence and integration efforts for potential mergers, acquisitions, or strategic partnerships. Serve as a key point of contact for external stakeholders, including auditors, regulatory bodies, and financial institutions. Connect and align financial strategies and operations across North America entities, driving synergies and ensuring best practices are shared. Tax Management:
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations in the US and Canada, including income tax, sales tax, VAT, and transfer pricing, while aligning with the group tax strategy set by headquarters. Work closely with the corporate tax team at headquarters to ensure proper management and documentation of intercompany transactions and transfer pricing. Collaborate with external tax advisors to oversee tax filings, audits, and dispute resolutions, ensuring group-wide compliance. Ensure accurate and timely tax reporting in accordance with Swiss-listed parent company requirements. Cash Management & Treasury:
Develop and implement cash flow forecasting models, ensuring alignment with group cash management policies and liquidity planning set by headquarters. Optimize working capital management, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, and inventory, in coordination with the group treasury function. Oversee banking relationships and treasury operations in collaboration with headquarters, ensuring efficient use of credit facilities, cash pooling, and intercompany financing solutions. Insurance & Risk Management:
Manage relationships with insurance providers, brokers, and auditors, negotiating optimal coverage and cost efficiency in coordination with headquarters. Identify, assess, and mitigate financial, operational, and strategic risks across North America, ensuring alignment with group-wide risk management policies. Qualifications:
Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field; MBA or CPA designation preferred. 10+ years of progressive experience in financial leadership roles, with a strong background in budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning. Experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment is highly desirable. Demonstrated experience leading and developing high-performing teams, including site based finance leads. Skills & Competencies:
Deep understanding of financial management principles, accounting standards (e.g., US GAAP, IFRS
), and regulatory requirements. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to synthesize complex financial data into actionable insights. Proven track record of partnering with senior executives to drive business performance and strategic initiatives. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build relationships across all levels of the organization. Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Net Suite) and advanced Excel skills. Key Attributes for Success:
Strategic Visionary:
Ability to align financial strategies with long-term business objectives. Collaborative Leader:
Skilled at building strong partnerships across functions, teams, and entities. Results-Oriented:
Focused on delivering measurable financial outcomes and driving continuous improvement. Integrity-Driven:
Commitment to upholding ethical standards and fostering a culture of accountability. Connector:
Adept at aligning teams across multiple locations to drive cohesive financial management. Adaptable:
Thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and can navigate ambiguity effectively. Reports To:
President, NA Location:
any Zehnder NA location (Buffalo, NY; Haverhill, MA; London, ON; Hampton, NH) Business Travel:
Up to 50% #Pro123 Pay:
$150,000.00 - $200,000.00 per year Benefits:
401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Work Location:
In person
