Chief Financial Officer

Job Description : Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Location: Middle East Industry: Retail & Distribution (Grocery / FMCG) The Opportunity A leading regional retail and distribution business is seeking a Chief Financial Officer to play a pivotal role in driving financial performance, strengthening operational discipline, and enabling sustainable growth. Operating within a complex and fast-evolving environment, the organization is entering a phase that requires enhanced financial leadership, improved visibility, and scalable infrastructure to support its continued expansion. The CFO will act as a strategic partner to the CEO and executive leadership team, contributing directly to business decisions, performance improvement, and long-term value creation. Role Purpose The Chief Financial Officer will be responsible for leading the financial strategy, optimizing performance, and building a robust finance function that supports both operational excellence and future growth. This role requires a balance of strategic thinking, commercial acumen, and hands-on execution, with a strong focus on driving measurable business outcomes. Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership Partner closely with the CEO and leadership team to shape and execute business strategy Provide forward-looking financial insights to support decision-making Act as a key advisor on growth, investment, and risk management Performance & Value Creation Drive initiatives to improve profitability, cost efficiency, and overall financial performance Strengthen cash flow management and working capital discipline Identify opportunities for operational improvement and margin enhancement Financial Transformation Enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and scalability of the finance function Improve financial reporting, planning, and forecasting capabilities Lead the optimization of financial systems, processes, and controls, including ERP environments Commercial Finance & Business Partnering Collaborate with operational teams to support data-driven decision-making Provide insight into product, category, and channel performance Support pricing, promotions, and supplier strategies with financial rigor Governance & Compliance Ensure strong financial governance, controls, and compliance frameworks Oversee regulatory and tax requirements in line with regional standards Maintain transparency and accuracy in financial reporting Leadership & Team Development Build, lead, and develop a high-performing finance team Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and collaboration Strengthen team capability to support a growing and evolving business Candidate Profile Experience Proven experience in a senior finance leadership role Background in retail, FMCG, or distribution environments, ideally within complex, multi-entity operations Strong preference for candidates with European (particularly UK or Western European) experience, bringing exposure to structured, mature finance environments and best-in-class retail practices Demonstrated success in driving financial performance, transformation, and process improvement Experience operating within regional or international business structures Capabilities Strong commercial mindset, with the ability to translate financial data into actionable insights Ability to operate both strategically and at a detailed execution level Experience working with ERP systems and financial transformation initiatives Confident in influencing senior stakeholders and driving change Personal Attributes High level of integrity, discretion, and professional judgment Resilient and adaptable in dynamic environments Strong interpersonal and communication skills Able to operate effectively within entrepreneurial or owner-led organizations Why This Role Opportunity to influence enterprise-wide strategy and performance Exposure to a complex, multi-dimensional business environment Platform to lead both transformation and growth initiatives High visibility role with direct access to senior leadership

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