Job Description

Main Purpose of the role

Lead, develop, and oversee ZIM Germany’s Finance & Administration function, ensuring compliance with corporate policies, legal and regulatory requirements, and financial standards. Act as a key business partner to the Country Manager and regional stakeholders while ensuring efficient operations, strong controls, and team performance.

Key Requirements:

Management of Finance & Accounting team

• Lead and develop the Finance & Accounting team, ensuring high performance, business continuity, and strong operational controls.
• Oversee all finance activities, including credit management, accounts payable, accounting, reporting, cash flow management, and performance monitoring.
• Drive process improvements, KPI achievement, and continuous development of team capabilities.
• Support daily operations as required and contribute to regional and global initiatives.

Financial Reporting, Audit & Budgeting

• Ensure accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting in compliance with Local GAAP, IFRS, SOX, and corporate requirements.
• Manage statutory financial statements and reporting obligations to relevant authorities.
• Coordinate internal and external audits and ensure timely implementation of recommendations.
• Lead the annual budgeting process and monitor performance against budget and forecasts.
• Provide financial insights, analysis, and recommendations to support management decision-making.

Tax & Corporate Governance

• Ensure full compliance with tax regulations and statutory requirements.
• Act as the primary contact for tax authorities, advisors, and tax audits.
• Support corporate governance activities, including annual shareholder meetings, tax filings, and maintenance of an effective corporate structure.

Business Partnering & Analysis

• Deliver financial and operational analysis to support business performance and strategic objectives.
• Identify trends, risks, and opportunities, providing actionable recommendations to management.
• Support the Country Manager and regional stakeholders with financial guidance and business insights.

Administration & Compliance

• Oversee administrative matters, including contracts, insurance, office management, and related corporate services.
• Ensure compliance with corporate, legal, and regulatory requirements, including certifications, safety and security standards, and other administrative obligations.
• Coordinate with regional stakeholders to maintain effective administrative processes and governance standards.

Requirements

• Certified Accountant or equivalent qualification in Finance, Accounting, or Taxation.
• Minimum 3 years of leadership experience in a similar finance management role within an international or global organization.
• Strong knowledge of financial accounting, reporting, taxation, budgeting, and internal controls.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills with a high level of integrity and professionalism.
• Proven leadership, people management, and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
• Experience with SAP is preferred; experience in the shipping or logistics industry is an advantage.
• Fluent German and English, both written and spoken.
• Willingness to participate in regional and global finance projects.