Senior Finance Controller

About the role

The Senior Finance Controller will lead the design and maintenance of a robust financial control and governance framework for our operations in Iraq. This role ensures compliance with internal and external regulations, supports business objectives, and provides strategic financial insight to senior leadership.

Key responsibilities

• Establish and maintain a fit‑for‑purpose financial control framework and ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations and accounting standards.
• Develop and oversee risk‑based controls, including a comprehensive risk‑management process at the leadership level.
• Safeguard company assets, detect and respond to financial risk and fraud.
• Provide financial insight, advice and decision‑support to senior leaders to achieve business goals.
• Lead change initiatives that improve quality, performance and cost efficiency.
• Coach and develop local Iraqi finance staff, building capability across the finance function.

Required profile

• Fluent Arabic (written and spoken) for all interactions with Iraqi authorities and regulators.
• Professional finance qualification (ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Minimum 15 years of relevant experience in an upstream environment, including prior controller roles.
• Experience in emerging markets or non‑OECD countries, with cultural familiarity with Iraq or the Middle East.
• Strong knowledge of financial controls, risk management, internal control, IFRS and statutory reporting.
• Proven ability to influence senior leaders, stakeholders and joint‑venture partners.

Required skills

• ERP systems
• Financial reporting
• Risk management
• Internal control
• International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)
• Regulatory reporting
• External audit coordination
• Tax compliance
• Balance sheet control
• Financial data analysis
• Advanced Excel