Toa Payoh - Finance & Operations Controller

My client is seeking an experienced and hands-on Finance & Operations Controller to oversee the financial performance and operational efficiency of the company and its group of entities. This is a pivotal leadership role that blends strategic oversight with practical execution, ideal for a professional who can balance strong financial governance with operational leadership and business partnership.

As a trusted advisor to the Board of Directors, the Finance & Operations Controller will be responsible for maintaining financial integrity, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements, driving process improvement, and delivering insights that support business growth and long-term value creation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting processes to align with the company’s strategic objectives.
• Provide detailed financial analysis and recommendations to support executive decision-making.
• Oversee accounting, reporting, and financial control activities, ensuring accuracy and compliance with group standards.
• Ensure timely preparation of management accounts, statutory reports, and financial statements.
• Drive initiatives that strengthen financial performance and operational resilience across the group.

• Review, design, and optimise financial and operational processes to enhance productivity and internal controls.
• Oversee cash flow planning, working capital management, and liquidity optimisation.
• Implement effective cost management strategies to improve profitability and support business growth.
• Monitor key operational metrics to ensure efficiency and alignment with business goals.
• Support the group’s capital-raising, investment, and financing initiatives.

• Maintain a strong internal control framework and ensure full compliance with accounting standards, tax regulations, and statutory requirements.
• Identify and manage financial and operational risks, ensuring effective mitigation measures are in place.
• Oversee audit processes and ensure adherence to corporate governance standards.
• Lead due diligence and integration efforts for mergers, acquisitions, and new ventures.
• Liaise with auditors, tax advisors, and regulatory authorities to ensure transparency and compliance.

• Deliver data-driven insights to forecast business performance and guide strategic planning.
• Conduct financial modelling, scenario analysis, and performance reviews to support executive decision-making.
• Champion continuous improvement, digital transformation, and automation within the finance and operations functions.
• Partner with senior management to identify opportunities for growth and operational efficiency.

• Serve as the key liaison between the Board, external stakeholders, and internal departments on finance and operational matters.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing finance and operations team.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with banks, auditors, and government agencies.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.
• Professional qualification such as CA, CPA, or ACCA.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in finance or accounting, including at least 5 years in a managerial role.
• Proven expertise in financial management, cash flow optimisation, and process improvement.
• Strong technical knowledge of accounting standards, reporting frameworks, and governance practices.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• High integrity, attention to detail, and ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities with a track record of developing and motivating teams.

• Experience in the maritime, logistics, or commodities industries.
• Familiarity with government grants, tax incentives, and corporate compliance frameworks.
• Exposure to finance transformation or process automation initiatives.
• A strategic mindset with a pragmatic and hands-on approach to execution.