Associate Director - Finance

Purpose of Role

The SSC Finance Associate Director EMEA will oversee the operations of the shared service centre for Accounts Payable & Accounting activities across Europe and is based in our Cognizant Budapest office.

This position reports directly to the Finance EMEA & APAC Vice President based in London. The role is pivotal in ensuring the efficient delivery of financial services and supporting the strategic goals of the organization.

Client and stakeholder focused, resilient and determined individual who can motivate a team into meeting tight deadlines.

The role requires regular communication with people from different countries and cultures at all levels (Finance Onsite, Admin, Tax, Internal audit, Payroll, Legal, Systems).

The position provides a great opportunity to understand how the company works and what it does.

Tasks and Responsibilities

· Manage and oversee the daily operations of the shared service centre, ensuring the timely and accurate processing of financial transactions.

· Provide leadership and management to the two direct reports and their respective teams by providing guidance and support to ensure optimal performance.

· Ensure accurate and timely monthly, quarterly and year end close

· Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of both teams.

· Collaborate with senior stakeholders to align the shared service centre's goals with the broader organizational objectives.

· Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track performance.

· Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and internal policies.

· Lead continuous improvement initiatives to streamline processes and enhance service delivery.

· Manage resources effectively to achieve targets and operational goals.

· Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and excellence within the shared service centre.

· Identify opportunities for automations and standardisation

· Ad hoc duties and special projects as requested by management.

Required Skills

· Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on continuous improvement.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships with stakeholders at all levels.

· Leadership and Team Management: Ability to lead, inspire, and develop a team of professionals.

· Financial Acumen: Strong understanding of finance and accounting principles, with the ability to analyze financial data and make informed decisions.

· Strategic Thinking: Ability to think strategically and align the shared service centre's goals with the broader organizational objectives.

· Problem Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify issues and implement effective solutions.

· Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing business needs and priorities.

· Customer Focus: Commitment to delivering high-quality service to internal and external stakeholders.

· Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and attention to detail in all aspects of work.

Functional Prerequisites

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master's degree or professional qualification (e.g., CPA, ACCA) is preferred.
• Proven in depth experience in finance or accounting coupled with in depth managerial experience within a shared service centre or similar multinational environment.
• Proven experience in managing accounts payable and / or accounting functions.
• Fluency in written and spoken English is essential; Knowledge of additional languages is a plus.
• Experience with ERP systems and other financial software applications & advanced Microsoft office knowledge.
• Project Management: Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously, ensuring timely and successful completion.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop a high-performing team.
• Computer Literate, especially Microsoft platforms & focus on Excel