12+ years | Dutch fluency | experience within marketing or advertising services | business partnering | FP&A | team management | commercial finance
A leading organization operating within the creative and commercial services sector is seeking a highly experienced finance executive to lead its financial operations. This is a search for a strategic leader with a proven track record in financial management within advertising, marketing, or related service industries.
Please note : Experience in the advertising, marketing, or agency services sector is a strict requirement. Applications without this background will not be considered.
Key Responsibilities :
Oversee core finance functions across the region, including :
- Financial Control – Ensure accurate financial reporting and compliance.
- FP&A – Deliver strategic insights through forecasting, budgeting, and performance analysis.
- Client Finance – Partner with commercial teams to support client profitability and new business.
- Operational Excellence – Drive process improvements and monitor operational KPIs.
- Serve as a key member of the regional leadership team, providing financial guidance and performance oversight.
- Lead and develop a finance team of approximately 18 FTEs, including offshore resources.
- Drive financial strategy, planning, and reporting to support regional objectives.
- Collaborate with commercial and growth teams on financial modeling for new initiatives.
- Ensure compliance with internal controls, statutory requirements, and group policies.
- Manage working capital, cash flow, and key financial metrics including WIP, DSO, and DPO.
- Represent finance in cross-functional initiatives and global projects.
Required Experience & Qualifications :
Minimum 12 years of progressive finance leadership experience, with a strong focus on accounting, reporting, planning, and client finance.Mandatory background in advertising, marketing, or agency services—including knowledge of agency models, commercial agreements, and project-based accounting.Proven experience managing senior stakeholders and presenting financial insights at executive level.Strong understanding of cost drivers and revenue models in service-based industries.Accounting certification required; experience with private equity or buy-and-build strategies is a plus.Skills & Attributes :
Strong leadership and team development capabilities.High proficiency in financial systems, data analysis, and reporting tools.Ability to challenge assumptions and apply industry knowledge to forecasting and planning.Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders.Resilient, hands-on, and adaptable in a fast-paced, evolving environment.