What does a financial officer do?

A financial officer is responsible for managing the financial transactions of a business. This includes overseeing financial planning, budgeting, forecasting and managing financial reporting and analysis.

They are also responsible for developing and implementing financial policies and procedures that align with the organisation’s goals. Financial officers collaborate with other departments to ensure that all financial decisions are aligned with broader business strategies and objectives.

Financial officers are also called finance executives or finance officers. Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is a senior-level role in this field.

When writing a job description for a financial officer, it’s important to be direct and clear about the specific qualifications and skills required. The first step is to write an effective job post to ensure that the best-suited candidates apply for the position.

To assess candidate suitability, consider both general and role-specific skills. You can ask:
 

  • What specific accounting and financial qualifications are required for the role?
  • What level of experience should the candidate possess?
  • How will the company measure success for the financial officer position?
  • How important is experience with mergers and acquisitions for the role?
  • What is their experience managing the budget for a company?


Recruiters hiring for a financial officer in India should consider the financial goals of the organisation, expectations for managing cash flows and investments and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. You should also evaluate the potential for strategic economic initiatives and the ability to provide valuable insights and advice to senior management and associated stakeholders.

Keep in mind that the job of a financial officer requires a deep understanding of financial management principles, as well as strong analytical, communication and leadership skills.

Your job description should reflect these expectations clearly, and the jobseeker needs to possess the necessary skills and experience to fulfil them.

Job Description: Template

We seek a highly qualified financial officer to join our team at [Company X].

As a financial officer, you will play a critical role in managing the financial operations of our organisation. You’re highly analytical and systematic, and love numbers and planning.

If you are an experienced and driven person who can provide strategic guidance and help make informed financial decisions to ensure the success and growth of our business, you’re perfect for this role.

By joining our team, you can work with a fast-growing tech company and collaborate with a dynamic team of professionals in an exciting work environment. We offer competitive remuneration, benefits, reimbursements and ample opportunities for growth. 

Objectives of this role

  • Overseeing investments, budgeting, financial reporting and cash management.
  • Strategizing and expediting the company’s fiscal and budgetary requirements.
  • Reporting, developing and coordinating annual business operations with budgets, programs and capital management.
  • Supervising accounting regularly to ensure cash flow for business operations.
  • Providing smooth fiscal management, cross-team interactions, consistent workflow and project coordination.
  • Checking the company’s budgetary policies to comply with national financial rules.   

Your tasks

  • Ensuring operational efficiency by developing fiscal policies in the company.
  • Keeping track of the transactions regularly and updating financial records.
  • Planning monthly/quarterly/annual budgets and monitoring financial audits.
  • Using tracking tools to monitor the performance of business operations.
  • Managing the financial team and supervising its performance.
  • Provide leadership and guidance to other members of the finance team.
  • Communicate relevant financial information to stakeholders.

Required skills and qualifications

  • 5+ years of experience managing economic operations in a corporate environment.
  • Exemplary analytical, problem-solving, presentation, and leadership skills.
  • In-depth knowledge of regulatory issues, accounting and tax planning in India.
  • Familiarity with methods of obtaining capital other than conventional loans.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment and undertake financial decisions.
  • Experience with financial software and systems, specifically Tally 9.
  • Strong knowledge of relevant economic laws and regulations and expertise in implementing internal controls.

Preferred skills and qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, accounting, or similar fields.
  • Experienced in international finance and compliance (mainly in North America).
  • Expertise in dealing with investors for mergers and acquisitions.
  • Professional certification, like CPA, CFA, or CMA.
  • Familiarity with data analysis and visualisation tools.