Chief Financial Officer

Key responsibilities areas

Fundraising & Investor Relations : Lead the company's debt fundraising efforts, and support securing equity financing. Total goal is $400M over next 3 years. Manage relationships with investors, analysts, and financial institutions. Manage the due diligence process to unburden the CEO of these responsibilities.

Special Focus on Debt Financing : while equity financing necessarily involves the CEO, debt financing should be 90% handled by the CFO. This includes over $200M of debt needed over the next 3 years, including both corporate level, country level, and local currency debt.

Mitigation of Currency Risk : operating in multiple counties, especially Nigeria, creates risk through currency devaluation. Mitigating these risks is very important.

IPO Readiness & Execution : Lead and manage the company's efforts to prepare for and execute an Initial Public Offering (IPO), if and when deemed appropriate.

International Financial Operations & Controls : Oversee all global financial operations, including accounting, treasury, financial reporting, internal controls, and risk management in multiple countries. Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and accounting standards.

Financial Strategy & Planning : Develop and implement the company's overall financial strategy, including long-term financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. Provide strategic financial insights and recommendations to the CEO and Board of Directors.

Mergers & Acquisitions : Evaluate and execute potential mergers, acquisitions, and other strategic investments.

Team Leadership & Development : Build and lead a high-performing finance team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Financial Reporting & Analysis : Provide timely and accurate financial reports and analysis to the CEO, Board of Directors, and investors. Analyze financial performance and identify opportunities for improvement.

Risk Management : Identify and mitigate financial risks, ensuring the company's financial stability and long-term sustainability.

Requirements

Education : Chartered Accountant (CA) qualification is mandatory. Any equivalent or relevant international accounting / finance certifications (e.g., CPA, ACCA) are highly desirable

Experience : 15-20 years of progressive experience in finance leadership roles, with a significant portion of that time spent in senior management positions.

Fundraising Expertise : Demonstrated ability to raise significant capital (USD 100-200 million) through debt and equity financing. Experience with due diligence processes related to funding.

IPO Experience : Proven track record of successfully taking a company through the IPO process. Experience with public company reporting and compliance requirements.

Strategic Thinking : Strong strategic thinking and planning skills, with the ability to translate business objectives into financial strategies.

Financial Acumen : Deep understanding of financial principles, accounting standards, and financial reporting.

Leadership Skills : Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and motivate high-performing teams.

Industry Experience : Experience in the solar industry is preferred, but candidates with experience in other sectors will be considered. A strong understanding of the energy sector is a plus.

International Exposure : International business experience is preferred.

Credentials : Strong professional credentials and reputation within the financial community.