Finance Director SWS Americas

Purpose and Mission

The Finance Director SWS Americas will be responsible for all financial management and accounting activities across SWS Americas (USA & Colombia). The successful candidate will be an integral part of the Americas senior management team, identifying opportunities and risks and helping formulate the region's plans to deliver the strategy & business growth objectives. This includes analyzing costs of materials, processes, and labor to determine methods of optimizing costs and expanding value to our customers.

Key Activities and Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing finance team, providing clear direction, coaching, and succession planning.
• Drive financial planning, forecasting, and budgeting processes, ensuring alignment with business strategy.
• Oversee monthly close and reporting, delivering accurate, timely, and insightful financial analysis.
• Provide actionable items which can improve the financial performance of the Business Unit and Region.
• Work with other Regional Finance Directors to ensure alignment on Global goals of the Business Unit.
• Act as a strategic business partner to senior leadership, influencing decisions through data-driven insights.
• Ensure compliance with US GAAP, internal policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Lead internal and external audits and manage relationships with auditors and tax advisors.
• Optimize working capital, cash flow, and financial performance across the business.
• Evaluate and approve capital investments aligned with strategic objectives.
• Drive continuous improvement and finance transformation initiatives, leveraging systems such as SAP.
• Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Perform ad-hoc analytics as required to drive the business.

Skills

• Strong ability to analyze financial data and provide actionable insights.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively convey financial information to regional and senior management.
• Proven leadership skills to manage and develop regional finance teams.
• Ability to think strategically and align regional financial planning with overall business objectives.
• Proficiency in financial software and tools, such as ERP systems and advanced Excel.
• Master’s degree in finance, accounting, or related discipline.
• CPA or equivalent professional certification is a plus.
• Strong knowledge of US GAAP and financial reporting standards.
• Strong strategic thinking and commercial acumen.
• Proven leadership and team development capabilities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Ability to translate complex financial information into clear business insights.
• High integrity, accountability, and results orientation.

Previous Experience

• 8–10+ years of progressive finance leadership experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Strong knowledge of US GAAP and financial reporting standards.
• Experience working in a matrixed global organization.
• Advanced financial analysis and business partnering skills.
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and data analytics tools.
• Ability to travel 30%, including international travel.
• Manage a team of 4 direct reports including performance review and developmental support.

Qualifications and Education

• Master’s degree in finance, accounting, or related discipline.
• CPA or equivalent professional certification is a plus.
• 8–10+ years of progressive finance leadership experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Advanced financial analysis and business partnering skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and data analytics tools.
• High integrity, accountability, and results orientation.
• Spanish is a plus.