Finance Manager - Automotive at Bridge Talent Management

Job Summary

• Our client, a leading large-scale dealer, distributor, and reseller of automotive parts in Kenya, with seven regional stores across the country, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Financial Manager to oversee the financial operations of its fast-paced, multi-branch business.
• The ideal candidate will have extensive expertise in financial management within the automotive or related industries, a proven track record in budgeting, cost control, and compliance, and the ability to drive strategic growth through effective financial planning.
• This role requires strong leadership skills, an analytical mindset, and a deep understanding of Kenya’s financial regulations, coupled with hands-on experience in managing multi-branch operations and complex inventory financing structures.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Strategy & Planning

• Lead annual budgeting and forecasting processes, ensuring alignment with business strategy.
• Develop financial models to evaluate business performance, new investments, and expansion opportunities.
• Conduct monthly, quarterly, and annual financial performance reviews, identifying areas for cost optimization and revenue growth.

Accounting & Reporting

• Oversee preparation of timely and accurate financial statements in compliance with IFRS and Kenyan tax laws.
• Manage the general ledger, reconciliations, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and payroll.
• Ensure proper documentation and controls for all financial transactions.
• Present monthly management accounts to the Board and senior leadership.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure full compliance with Kenyan tax regulations (VAT, PAYE, Income Tax, Excise Duty).
• Oversee external and internal audits, responding promptly to findings and recommendations.
• Monitor and manage financial risks, including currency fluctuations, credit risk, and fraud prevention.

Automotive-Specific Financial Management

• Manage stock financing facilities with banks and financial institutions.
• Track vehicle costing, sales margins, and aftersales profitability.
• Monitor spare parts, workshop, and service center revenue streams.
• ​Work closely with sales, operations, and procurement teams to align financial strategies with operational goals.

Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement

• Lead and mentor the finance team to build capacity and improve performance.
• Engage with external stakeholders such as banks, tax authorities, suppliers, and insurers.
• Support the Managing Director with strategic decision-making based on data-driven insights.

Requirements

•  Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field (Master’s degree is an advantage).
•  Professional accounting certification (CPA-K, ACCA, or equivalent).
• Minimum 5-7 years’ experience in financial management, in the automotive, retail, or related industry.
• Strong knowledge of bank reconciliations, imports, and LCs.
• Strong knowledge of Kenyan tax laws, IFRS, and compliance requirements.
• Advanced proficiency in ERP systems and MS Excel.

Core Competencies

• Strong commercial acumen and understanding of automotive business drivers.
•  Analytical thinker with excellent problem-solving skills.
•  Exceptional leadership and team management abilities.
• High integrity, attention to detail, and ability to work under pressure.
• Strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills.