ABOUT THE ROLE
As a Commercial Controller, you will manage and control Trade Spend across the MEA region, overseeing customer rebates, promotions, visibility, displays, e-commerce activities, and other commercial investments. You will collaborate with country teams to prepare annual Trade Spend budgets, analyze market assumptions, and maintain detailed plans for commercial investments. Your role will involve monitoring spend against budgets and forecasts, validating customer rebate calculations, and ensuring compliance with company policies and contractual agreements. The position requires conducting regular market visits to audit implementation of contracts and reviewing P&L reporting by retailer to improve profitability. Additionally, you will partner with the Marketing team to evaluate the ROI of marketing activities and ensure adherence to internal controls and audit requirements.
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KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Manage and control Trade Spend, including customer rebates, promotions, visibility, and e-commerce activities.
- Collaborate with country teams to develop Trade Spend budgets and review market assumptions.
- Monitor actual spend, open commitments, and highlight risks and potential savings.
- Validate customer rebate calculations and claims in accordance with contractual terms and activity execution.
- Review commercial contracts and Business Development Agreements (BDAs) for validity and ensure payments are supported by signed agreements.
- Conduct market and store visits to audit compliance with contractual commitments.
- Prepare and review P&L reporting by retailer, analyzing profitability and commercial drivers.
- Review commercial purchase requisitions and orders for proper documentation and budget availability.
- Identify savings opportunities by reconciling commitments against actual activities and claims.
- Partner with the Marketing team to assess ROI of marketing activities.
- Ensure compliance with company policies and implement effective controls across processes.
- Maintain trackers for Trade Spend, contracts, customer claims, and outstanding actions.
OUR PERFECT CANDIDATE
We seek a highly analytical and detail-oriented candidate with strong financial control and effective communication skills. The ideal individual should possess the ability to work collaboratively with various teams to manage commercial investments while safeguarding company profitability.
KEY QUALIFICATIONS AND ATTRIBUTES
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field; professional certifications such as CPA or CMA are a plus.
- Experience: Proven experience in managing commercial financial control in a multinational corporation, preferably in FMCG or related sectors, with expertise in trade spend management, rebate accounting, and contract governance.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in ERP systems (preferably SAP), advanced Excel (pivot tables, financial modeling), and data analytics tools; knowledge of IMS or similar market data platforms is desirable.
- Communication: Strong interpersonal skills with the capability to present complex information clearly to finance and commercial stakeholders.
- Attention to Detail: Exceptional accuracy in reviewing financial documents and ensuring compliance with policies.
- Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Proactive Problem-Solving: Competence in identifying inefficiencies and implementing corrective actions.
PERSONAL COMPETENCIES
- Strong ethical standards and commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
- A collaborative mindset and willingness to engage across departments and regions.
- Adaptable and resilient in navigating ambiguity within commercial environments.
- Detail-oriented with an understanding of the broader business impact of financial decisions.
WE OFFER
Joining the team as a Commercial Controller presents a rewarding opportunity for impact on financial stewardship across diverse markets.
- Competitive compensation package aligned with industry standards.
- Supportive and inclusive work environment that values collaboration and professional growth.
- Access to continuous learning and development programs.
- Opportunities to engage with international teams and broaden professional exposure.
- Commitment to work-life balance with flexible working arrangements.
- Participation in wellbeing initiatives and community engagement events.
- Comprehensive benefits, including health coverage and retirement plans.
- Engagement with a recognized global brand known for quality and ethical practices.
We are committed to fostering an environment where your contributions are valued and your potential can flourish.
