CFO

The organisation

This rapidly expanding independent power producer specializes in investing in and owning distributed energy plants, commonly referred to as microgrids. The microgrids crafted by this company aim to optimize renewable energy utilization, delivering cost savings to customers while minimizing the carbon footprint to contribute positively to the environment. The microgrid assets consist of a blend of solar, wind, storage, biomass, combined heat and power, and fossil fuel generators.

The company excels in sizing these assets to meet specific load requirements while minimizing reliance on fossil fuels. This approach ensures a lower and consistent cost basis for energy throughout the project's typical lifespan. They serve as a comprehensive solution for energy needs, handling the design, implementation, commissioning, operation, maintenance, and crucially, the financing of projects.

The position

This rapidly growing independent power producer is in search of a CFO to oversee its global business. Reporting to the group CEO, the CFO will take charge of capital raising, the investment committee process, company-wide project-level financial modeling, project finance, financial stewardship, and optimizing global corporate and tax structuring.

This role demands a combination of strategic insight and hands-on involvement. The CFO is expected to provide robust leadership to the finance function, collaborating with investors, banks, development finance institutions, and guiding project-level investment decisions. The ideal candidate should possess a deep understanding of capital raising and deal structuring, coupled with a blend of strategic vision, top-notch business financial management, tactical planning, and meticulous attention to detail in shareholder reporting. As a member of the global Executive and Leadership teams, they will ensure the timely and efficient implementation of strategic directives.

The ideal candidate will leverage their leadership expertise and extensive experience in business leadership, project development, and technology or services deployment. This position will involve extensive travel.

Tasks & responsibilities

• Contribute to defining the overall company strategy and support tactical initiatives in collaboration with the CEO, COO, and country Managing Directors.
• Lead the capital raising process alongside the CEO and manage existing investor relations.
• Oversee the financial operations of the company and arrange non-recourse debt financing for infrastructure projects.
• Participate in overall company leadership as part of the Leadership Team.
• Analyze, create, and refine corporate and project financial models.
• Lead due diligence and Investment Committee processes with internal and external financiers.
• Review and support contract negotiations with clients and major suppliers.
• Raise corporate equity, negotiate detailed financial instruments, and execute project financing solutions.
• Lead the budgeting process and forecast cash flow positions across multiple countries with the support of bookkeepers and CPAs.
• Take responsibility for the auditing process of the entire corporate group.
• Support the financial function in constructing and monitoring reliable control and budgeting systems.
• Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements, including insurances.
• Report financial results and risk factors to the Board and the CEO.
• Evaluate and execute potential project-level acquisition activities.
• Direct corporate structuring, tax optimization, and accounting processes.
• Develop a comprehensive market persona and lead this representation in the marketplace with customers, partners, and investors.
• Build a high-performing financial team.
• Develop and manage an annual budget, define KPIs, and set targets.
• Identify creative financial investment opportunities to improve project returns and annual company revenue.
• Inspire company performance, promoting the mission and goals of the organization.
• Investigate and lead the analysis of various company growth strategies, including acquisitions or mergers.
• Possess the ability to structure the company for a future listing.

Candidate profile

We are in search of a CFO with a stellar record in financial leadership, project finance, and capital raising, particularly for intricate projects across a diverse geographical landscape. Prospective candidates must be open to travel and should possess the following qualifications:

• A proven track record of successfully raising capital for high-growth companies.
• Demonstrated expertise in project finance.
• Verified financial stewardship, meticulous accounting practices, and a history of successfully completing audits.
• Experience in managing intricate corporate structures with consideration for tax treatments and optimization across borders.
• A background in the energy sector is advantageous, as is experience in sectors like mining, commercial and industrial, agriculture, and remote communities.
• Comprehensive understanding of the entire energy project lifecycle, from lead qualification to operations.
• Executive-level experience in project development and/or a construction environment.
• Preferable experience in working in diverse regions such as Africa / Asia.
• Experience with a technology-focused company in the energy sector, an emerging market telecommunications company, or infrastructure project development is preferred.
• Expertise in strategic planning, resource allocation, financial management, and budgeting.
• Familiarity with regulatory and tax affairs in the markets of operation.
• Experience collaborating with investors and financial counterparties.
• Exceptional judgment and decision-making skills.
• Comfortable operating in a dynamic, start-up environment.
• High moral and professional standards grounded in humility and compassion.
• Honest and transparent, building trust through clear communication and consistent follow-through.

The offer

Comprises competitive base salary, annual performance bonus etc.

Interested?

You can apply for this position by using the link below. For more information please contact Niels Geugjes, T: (06) 1823 3688.