Experience

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  Franklin Smith

  • New Zealand
  • Staffing and Recruiting
  • 1 - 100 Employee

  • Finance Director

    • Mar 2023 - Present

    As the Finance Director at Franklin Smith in Auckland, New Zealand, my primary responsibility is to develop and implement financial strategies that align with the company's goals and objectives. This involves ensuring long-term financial stability and growth by constantly reviewing and updating our financial plans to keep up with changing business conditions.To achieve this, I oversee the financial reporting process, which includes the preparation and analysis of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and highlight key insights. It is my duty to ensure that these statements are accurate and compliant with accounting standards. This helps to provide a clear picture of our financial performance to both internal and external stakeholders.Another important duty is managing cash flow, budgets, and forecasts. This involves constantly monitoring and analysing our financial data to optimise our financial performance and support effective decision-making across the organisation. By doing so, we are able to make informed decisions that support our growth and development. As the leader of the finance team, I take it upon myself to provide guidance and support on financial matters. I believe in fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence, which is why I prioritise the ongoing development of my team members. This enables us to work collaboratively towards our shared goals.Moreover, I manage the relationship with key financiers and banks to ensure the availability of finance at the right time through the most economical channels. This is critical for maintaining our financial stability and growth.Finally, I partner with key stakeholders, including senior executives and external auditors, to ensure effective communication and collaboration on financial matters. Through ongoing collaboration and communication, we are able to make informed decisions that support our growth and development.

  • Finance Manager

    • Apr 2022 - Mar 2023

    Developing and implementing financial strategies and policies to support the company's long-term financial goals was one of my primary responsibilities as the Finance Manager at Franklin Smith in Auckland, New Zealand. This involved conducting in-depth financial analysis and utilising financial modelling techniques to make recommendations on how to optimise the company's financial resources.I also oversaw the budgeting process, which includes forecasting, variance analysis, and reporting. This ensured that the company's financial resources are being allocated efficiently and effectively, and that we were able to monitor progress towards our financial targets.Managing the day-to-day financial operations was another key responsibility, which included oversight of accounts payable and receivable, payroll, and general ledger accounting. This ensured that the company's financial transactions were accurately recorded and that financial reports were prepared in a timely and accurate manner.Analysing financial data to identify trends and opportunities for cost savings and revenue growth was an ongoing task, which helped the company to continuously improve its financial performance. This involved staying up-to-date with industry trends and financial regulations, as well as maintaining a thorough understanding of the company's financial position.

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  FUJIFILM Business Innovation New Zealand

  • Auckland, New Zealand

  • Financial Accountant

    • Apr 2021 - Apr 2022
    • Auckland, New Zealand

    As a financial accountant, I was responsible for preparing and analysing financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, to ensure accuracy and compliance with accounting standards and regulations. I conducted financial forecasting and analysis to provide insights into business performance and identify potential areas for improvement.I worked closely with cross-functional teams to ensure timely and accurate recording of financial transactions and preparation of monthly and annual financial reports. This involved managing accounts payable and accounts receivable functions, including processing vendor invoices, reconciling accounts, and managing collections to ensure timely payments and reduce overdue accounts.I also provided financial guidance and support to other departments to ensure compliance with accounting policies and procedures and to support business decision-making. This included conducting financial analysis and modelling to support key business decisions, as well as identifying and implementing cost-saving measures to improve profitability.In addition, I played a key role in managing the annual budgeting process and ensuring alignment between financial targets and business objectives. I also assisted with financial audits, providing documentation and support to auditors and ensuring compliance with internal control requirements.Finally, I maintained a thorough understanding of accounting standards, regulations, and best practices, and kept up-to-date with changes in these areas to ensure ongoing compliance and effectiveness of financial processes.

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  FUJIFILM Business Innovation New Zealand

  • Auckland, New Zealand

  • Financial Accountant (Intern)

    • Oct 2020 - Dec 2020
    • Auckland, New Zealand

    During my internship as a Financial Accountant at FUJIFILM Business Innovation New Zealand, I supported the team in preparing financial statements and reports, such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements. Additionally, I conducted research on financial regulations and compliance requirements to ensure the accuracy of our financial reporting.I also had the opportunity to participate in financial audits, providing documentation and support to auditors as necessary. As part of the finance team, I worked closely with other departments such as accounts payable and accounts receivable to ensure that financial records were kept accurately and in a timely manner.Furthermore, I conducted variance analysis and made recommendations for cost-saving measures to improve company profitability. This involved analysing financial data, identifying areas for improvement, and suggesting ways to reduce expenses and increase revenue. Overall, my internship at FUJIFILM Business Innovation New Zealand provided me with valuable experience and insights into the financial operations of a multinational company.

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  Rab Processors Group of Companies

  • General Manager - Finance

    • Jan 2014 - Jul 2019

    Taking on the helm as the General Manager – Finance, my responsibilities included overseeing and directing the financial activities of the company. I was responsible for developing and implementing financial policies and procedures, as well as ensuring compliance with all relevant laws and regulations. I supervised a team of finance professionals, providing guidance and support to ensure that all financial activities were completed accurately and on time.I prepared and analysed financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, and presented these reports to senior management and the board of directors. I was responsible for managing the company's cash flow and ensuring that adequate funds were available to meet the company's financial obligations. I oversaw the company's budgeting process, working closely with department heads to develop and implement effective budget plans.I also worked closely with external auditors and regulatory agencies, ensuring that all financial reporting requirements were met. I was responsible for managing the company's banking relationships, negotiating loan terms and interest rates, and ensuring that all loan covenants were met. Additionally, I played a key role in strategic planning, providing financial analysis and recommendations to support the company's growth and expansion plans.Throughout my tenure as General Manager - Finance, I maintained a strong focus on driving efficiency and improving financial performance. I implemented process improvements and automation initiatives, reducing costs and streamlining financial operations. I also provided leadership and mentoring to the finance team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.

  • Financial Controller

    • Jul 2010 - Dec 2013

    Making the transition to Rab Processors Group of Companies, I was responsible for a variety of tasks related to financial management and control. Firstly, I oversaw the financial planning and budgeting process, working closely with other departments to ensure that financial plans aligned with overall business goals. I also analysed financial data and provided recommendations to senior management on ways to improve financial performance and optimise resources.Another key aspect of my role was to manage the day-to-day financial operations of the company. This included overseeing the accounts payable and receivable functions, ensuring that all transactions were recorded accurately and timely. I also managed the general ledger functions including various reconciliations, ensuring the accuracy and completeness of financial statements.As the Financial Controller, I was responsible for ensuring that the company was compliant with all relevant financial regulations and standards. I oversaw the preparation of tax returns and financial reports, ensuring that they were filed accurately and timely with regulatory bodies. I also managed the external audit process, liaising with auditors and ensuring that all audit requirements were met.In addition to the above responsibilities, I also managed a team of finance professionals, providing guidance, coaching, and mentoring to help them develop their skills and grow in their roles. I ensured that my team had the necessary resources to perform their duties and collaborated with other departments to ensure that finance-related tasks were completed on time.Finally, as a member of the senior management team, I provided input into strategic planning and decision-making, using my financial expertise to help drive the company's growth and success. Overall, I was committed to ensuring that the company had strong financial controls and processes in place, allowing the company to achieve its goals and objectives.

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  BAM Holdings Ltd

  • Colombo

  • Finance Manager

    • Dec 2009 - Jun 2010
    • Colombo

    As Finance Manager at BAM Holdings Ltd, I had the responsibility of overseeing the financial operations of the company. My duties included managing the accounts payable and receivable, reconciling bank statements, and preparing financial reports for senior management. I also provided financial analysis to aid in decision-making and ensured compliance with regulatory requirements.I was responsible for supervising a team of accountants and ensuring that they maintained accurate financial records. I developed and implemented financial policies and procedures to ensure efficient and effective financial management. I also provided training and development opportunities for the finance team to enhance their skills and knowledge.Another responsibility was managing the budgeting process and forecasting financial performance. I worked closely with department heads to develop budgets that aligned with their strategic objectives and provided regular updates on actual performance against budgeted expectations. Additionally, I was responsible for managing cash flow and ensuring that the company had adequate liquidity to meet its obligations.Finally, I was responsible for liaising with external stakeholders such as auditors, tax authorities, and financial institutions. I prepared and submitted tax returns and ensured that the company complied with all relevant tax laws and regulations. I also worked closely with external auditors to ensure that the company's financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting standards and were free from material misstatements.

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  Adaaran Resorts - Maldives

  • Maldives

  • Chief Accountant

    • Dec 2008 - May 2009
    • Maldives

    Whilst working as Chief Accountant at Adaaran Resorts in the Maldives, I had several key responsibilities. Firstly, I was responsible for overseeing the preparation and presentation of financial statements for the resort. This involved ensuring that all financial data was recorded accurately and in compliance with relevant accounting principles and standards.Secondly, I was in charge of managing the accounts payable and receivable functions, ensuring that payments were made and received in a timely and accurate manner. I also maintained and updated the general ledger, ensuring that all transactions were properly recorded and accounted for.Thirdly, I played a key role in budgeting and forecasting for the resort, working closely with other department heads to develop annual budgets and long-term financial plans. I also conducted regular financial analysis and provided management with detailed reports and recommendations based on my findings.Fourthly, I was responsible for managing the resort's payroll, ensuring that all employees were paid accurately and on time. I also managed employee benefits programs, such as health insurance and retirement plans.Lastly, I worked closely with the resort's external auditors to ensure that all financial statements and reports were accurate and compliant with local regulations. I also worked to implement improvements to the resort's financial systems and processes to ensure that they were efficient, effective, and transparent.

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  B R DE SILVA & CO.

  • Colombo

  • Audit Manager / Senior / Assistant

    • Oct 2004 - Nov 2008
    • Colombo

    During my time at B R De Silva & Co., I had the opportunity to work as an Audit Manager/Senior/Assistant. In this role, I was responsible for a wide range of duties and responsibilities that were crucial to the success of the company.One of my main responsibilities was to lead and manage audit teams to ensure that all audit engagements were completed on time and within budget. I oversaw the planning, execution, and reporting phases of various audit assignments, ensuring that all procedures and guidelines were adhered to.Another critical aspect of my role was to maintain effective communication with clients, providing them with regular updates on the progress of their engagements and addressing any concerns they had promptly. I also identified opportunities to provide additional value-added services to clients and worked with them to develop appropriate solutions.As an Audit Manager/Senior/Assistant, I was also responsible for reviewing and analysing financial statements, identifying potential risks and areas for improvement, and making recommendations to clients on ways to mitigate risks and optimize their financial performance.I regularly provided guidance and training to junior team members, supporting their professional development and helping them to improve their audit skills and knowledge. Additionally, I contributed to the development of audit policies and procedures, ensuring they were up-to-date and in line with industry best practices.Lastly, I took part in various internal and external training programs to stay up-to-date with the latest auditing standards, regulations, and emerging trends in the industry. Overall, my time at B R De Silva & Co. was a rewarding experience that helped me develop a range of valuable skills and competencies in the field of auditing.