What does a financial director do?

Financial directors oversee the economic health of an organisation, ensuring adequate financial planning, management, and reporting. This high-level executive role is vital for maintaining the company’s fiscal stability and ensuring alignment with strategic goals.

These professionals work closely with senior management to create long-term financial strategies, manage budgets, analyse financial performance, and make critical decisions to optimise costs and improve profitability, ultimately driving the company’s success. The role requires financial acumen and strategic thinking to align fiscal performance with business goals.

The role of financial directors majorly involves activities such as financial forecasting, budgeting, overseeing audits, and implementing policies to ensure compliance with financial regulations. They manage and guide the finance team, ensuring efficient workflows in accounting, treasury, and financial reporting. This role is particularly significant in industries with tight regulations and companies aiming for sustainable growth, mergers, or expansions.

The role of a financial director may overlap with that of a chief financial officer (CFO). Also, note that financial controllers differ from financial directors. While the former focuses on accounting, financial reporting, and internal controls, the latter has a broader scope of responsibilities, including strategic financial management.

Job Description: Template

We’re seeking a highly skilled financial director to join our team at [Company X].

You will work directly with the leadership and oversee the financial health of our company. This includes developing financial strategies, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate has strong financial acumen with a proven track record in financial management, planning, and strategy development.

If you are a results-oriented individual looking to play a key role in driving the financial success of a forward-thinking organisation, we encourage you to apply. Our company offers a dynamic work environment, competitive compensation, and benefits, including health insurance, pension schemes, and professional growth opportunities. 

Objectives of this role

  • Overseeing all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning.
  • Developing and implementing financial strategies to drive growth, profitability, and long-term sustainability.
  • Leading the financial reporting process, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Collaborating with executive management to guide strategic decision-making with financial insights and analysis.
  • Managing relationships with financial institutions, auditors, and other key stakeholders.
  • Ensuring compliance with all financial laws and regulations, including tax planning, compliance, and audits.
  • Providing leadership and direction to the finance team, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.   

Your tasks

  • Prepare and present detailed financial reports, forecasts, and risk analyses to the executive team and board of directors.
  • Monitor cash flow, profitability, and capital expenditures to ensure financial stability.
  • Lead financial audits and ensure all financial records and reports are accurate.
  • Develop and manage budgets, ensuring alignment with company goals and efficient resource allocation.
  • Implement financial controls, policies, and procedures to safeguard company assets and mitigate risks.
  • Drive financial planning and analysis processes to support informed business decisions.
  • Identify opportunities for cost savings, investment, and financial optimisation.
  • Analyse financial trends and provide recommendations for cost management and resource allocation.

Required skills and qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field.
  • Relevant professional accounting certification (e.g., CA, CPA, CFA).
  • 10+ years of demonstrable experience as a Financial Director, Chief Financial Officer, or in a senior finance leadership role.
  • Proficiency in corporate finance, risk management, and regulatory frameworks.
  • Strong knowledge of financial principles, accounting standards, and Indian tax rules.
  • Proficiency in financial modelling, forecasting, and strategic financial planning.
  • Familiarity with ERP systems and financial reporting tools (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or QuickBooks).
  • Strategic thinking and the ability to translate business objectives into financial strategies.
  • Excellent decision-making, analytical, and problem-solving abilities, with attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and executive management.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work with senior management and external stakeholders.
  • High level of integrity and dependability.

Preferred skills and qualifications

  • Master’s degree in Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
  • Experience in financial leadership, international finance, and dealing with multi-currency operations.
  • Strong knowledge of mergers and acquisitions, investment strategies, and capital markets.
  • Ability to drive financial performance and manage large budgets in a fast-paced environment.
  • Knowledge of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and corporate restructuring.
  • Experience with financial modelling and valuation.
  • Strong understanding of corporate finance and regulatory compliance.
  • Expertise in cost accounting, budgeting, and financial analysis.
  • Experience in implementing financial technology (FinTech) solutions.
  • Ability to drive business transformation and process improvement initiatives.