Finance Director SWS Americas

Purpose and Mission

The Finance Director SWS Americas will be responsible for all financial management and accounting activities across SWS Americas (USA & Colombia).

The successful candidate will be an integral part of the Americas senior management team, identifying opportunities and risks and helping formulate the region’s plans to deliver the strategy & business growth objectives. These include analyzing costs of materials, processes, and labor to determine methods of optimizing costs and expanding value to our customers. This position plays a critical role in ensuring strong financial governance, delivering accurate insights, and supporting strategic decision-making across SWS Americas.

Key Activities and Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing finance team, providing clear direction, coaching, and succession planning.
• Drive financial planning, forecasting, and budgeting processes, ensuring alignment with business strategy.
• Oversee monthly close and reporting, delivering accurate, timely, and insightful financial analysis.
• Provide actionable items which can improve the financial performance of the Business Unit and Region.
• Work with other Regional Finance Directors to ensure alignment on Global goals of the Business Unit.
• Act as a strategic business partner to senior leadership, influencing decisions through data-driven insights.
• Ensure compliance with US GAAP, internal policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Lead internal and external audits and manage relationships with auditors and tax advisors.
• Optimize working capital, cash flow, and financial performance across the business.
• Evaluate and approve capital investments aligned with strategic objectives.
• Drive continuous improvement and finance transformation initiatives, leveraging systems such as SAP.
• Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Perform ad‑hoc analytics as required to drive the business.

Skills

• Strong ability to analyze financial data and provide actionable insights.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively convey financial information to regional and senior management.
• Proven leadership skills to manage and develop regional finance teams.
• Ability to think strategically and align regional financial planning with overall business objectives.
• Proficiency in financial software and tools, such as ERP systems and advanced Excel.
• Master’s degree in finance, accounting, or related discipline.
• CPA or equivalent professional certification is a plus.
• Strong knowledge of US GAAP and financial reporting standards.
• Strong strategic thinking and commercial acumen.
• Proven leadership and team development capabilities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Ability to translate complex financial information into clear business insights.
• High integrity, accountability, and results orientation.

Previous Experience

• 8–10+ years of progressive finance leadership experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Strong knowledge of US GAAP and financial reporting standards.
• Experience working in a matrixed global organization.
• Advanced financial analysis and business partnering skills.
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and data analytics tools.
• Ability to travel 30%, including international travel.
• Manage a team of 4 direct reports including performance review and developmental support.

Qualifications and Education

• Master’s degree in finance, accounting, or related discipline.
• CPA or equivalent professional certification is a plus.
• 8–10+ years of progressive finance leadership experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Advanced financial analysis and business partnering skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and data analytics tools.
• High integrity, accountability, and results orientation.
• Spanish is a plus.

Be bold and take the leap!

We're looking for individuals who are not afraid to take risks and explore new ideas. If you are passionate about personal growth and bringing your authentic self to work, we want you on our team! At Bekaert, we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive work environment. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. To learn more about us and our exciting career opportunities, visit Bekaert Careers.