Head of Finance (Manila)

Smartly is a rapidly growing SaaS company renowned for our innovative advertising solutions and dynamic team. We are expanding our global finance team and are seeking a Head of Finance (Manila) to join our Manila office. This pivotal leadership role will oversee financial operations in the Philippines, ensuring compliance with local tax, statutory, and audit requirements while supporting the continued growth of our regional finance function. 

This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in a global finance organization, contributing to process improvements and ensuring strong governance and compliance in a fast-paced, international environment.

Role Overview:

Reporting to the Group Financial Controller, the Head of Finance (Manila) will provide hands-on leadership in managing local finance and accounting activities, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and supporting Smartly’s Manila-based finance team members. The role will collaborate closely with global finance counterparts to align financial processes and best practices.

Key Responsibilities:Finance Leadership & Compliance:

• Oversee and manage financial operations for our Philippines entity, ensuring compliance with local tax, statutory, and audit requirements. 
• Support and guide the Manila-based finance and revenue operations team members, ensuring alignment with global financial policies and procedures.
• Act as the key liaison between the Manila office and the global finance organisation, ensuring effective coordination and communication.
• Ensure ongoing compliance with local regulatory requirements, with support from our global legal and people teams.

Accounting & Reporting:

• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in compliance with Philippine Financial Reporting Standards (PFRS) and IFRS.
• Oversee the preparation and submission of tax filings, including VAT/GST and other indirect taxes, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Manage Smartly’s Philippine statutory reporting and lead the local audit processes in coordination with external auditors.
• Oversee day-to-day financial operations, including accounting, accounts payable, invoicing and accounts receivable.

Process Improvement & Governance:

• Identify opportunities for process improvements and automation within the finance function.
• Drive efficiencies in financial operations, working closely with Smartly’s global finance teams to align best practices.
• Support the transition of accounting tasks from external providers to in-house management, ensuring a smooth transition.

Collaboration & Team Development:

• Provide mentorship and leadership to the Manila-based finance team, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams to support business growth and ensure strong financial governance.
• Partner with global finance stakeholders to align on reporting requirements and financial controls.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the Philippines or an equivalent international qualification.
• 8+ years of progressive finance and accounting experience, including leadership roles.
• Strong understanding of local compliance requirements, tax regulations, and statutory reporting in the Philippines.
• Experience with wider APAC regional finance practices (especially Australia and/or Singapore) would be an advantage.
• Proven ability to manage financial operations in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with fluency in English (both written and verbal).
• Proficiency in G-suite, MS Office (Excel), and familiarity with accounting software (e.g., NetSuite) is an advantage.

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