Head, Finance & Operations - MFB at CredPal

Purpose Statement


We are seeking a highly experienced and execution-driven Head of Finance & Operations to oversee the financial management, operational efficiency, and overall performance of our microfinance bank in Dawakin Kudu. The ideal candidate will be responsible for driving financial strategy, ensuring strong internal controls, optimizing operational processes, and supporting aggressive business growth while maintaining regulatory compliance.
This role requires a commercially minded leader who can balance growth, profitability, and risk management in a fast-paced microfinance environment.


Responsibilities

Financial Strategy & Management


Lead the development and execution of the bank's financial strategy in line with business objectives.
Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes.
Drive profitability through effective cost management and revenue optimization.
Monitor financial performance and provide actionable insights to management.
Ensure the bank consistently maintains all regulatory prudential ratios in line with microfinance banking requirements.


Accounting, Reporting & Returns Filing


Oversee preparation of accurate and timely financial statements.
Ensure timely filing of statutory and regulatory returns (CBN returns, NDIC, tax filings, etc.).
Maintain full compliance with IFRS standards and financial reporting requirements.
Liaise with external auditors, regulators, and tax authorities.


Operations Management


Oversee daily banking operations including cash management, branch operations, and transaction processing.
Drive operational efficiency and process optimization across all units.
Implement and monitor SOPs and internal control frameworks.
Ensure operational readiness, uptime, and business continuity.


Risk Management & Compliance


Establish and enforce strong internal controls to mitigate financial and operational risks.
Ensure full compliance with Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) regulations and microfinance guidelines.
Oversee credit risk processes and portfolio quality in collaboration with business teams.
Monitor fraud risks and implement preventive measures.


Treasury & Liquidity Management


Manage liquidity, cash flow, and funding requirements of the bank.
Optimize asset-liability management to ensure financial stability.
Oversee investment activities and fund allocation strategies.


Leadership & Team Management


Lead, mentor, and develop the finance and operations teams.
Drive a high-performance culture with clear KPIs and accountability.
Ensure continuous training and capability development across teams.


Process Improvement & Systems


Drive automation and digital transformation across finance and operations.
Ensure effective use of core banking systems and financial tools.
Continuously identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency.


Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)


Profitability & Cost-to-Income Ratio
Financial Reporting Accuracy & Timeliness
Liquidity & Cash Flow Management
Operational Efficiency Metrics
Portfolio Quality (PAR / NPL)
Compliance & Audit Outcomes
Process Turnaround Time


Requirements


Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field.
ACA / ACCA certification is required.
MCIB certification is an added advantage.
Minimum of 5years experience strictly within a Microfinance Bank (MFB) with at least 3years in a senior leadership role overseeing finance and/or operations.
Strong knowledge of microfinance banking operations and regulatory requirements in Nigeria.
Proven experience in financial planning, treasury management, and operational leadership.
Strong understanding of risk management, internal controls, and compliance frameworks.
Excellent analytical, leadership, and decision-making skills.
Must reside in Kano State, preferably within or around Dawakin Kudu and its environs.