Area Finance Head – Middle East

About the role

The Area Finance Head for the Middle East will join the Area Leadership team as a strategic advisor to the Area Head and Regional Leadership Team, reporting to the Head of Finance Pharma International. This senior leadership position requires deep financial expertise and the ability to translate business decisions into enterprise‑wide financial impact while upholding the highest compliance standards.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic business partnering to shape and deliver long‑term Pharma International strategy, influencing cross‑border resource allocation.
• Guide regional financial oversight, ensuring P&L sustainability, financial integrity and robust risk management across multiple affiliates.
• Lead, coach and develop the entire Middle East finance organization, including Affiliate Finance Managers.
• Champion adoption of AI and financial technology to enhance predictive insights, simplify cross‑border reporting and increase transparency.
• Ensure high‑quality compliance, governance and operational excellence of all finance practices.

Required profile

• Proven finance leader with a strong track record of designing and implementing financial strategies that align with enterprise‑wide goals.
• Bachelor’s degree required; MBA or professional qualifications such as CPA/CIMA preferred.
• Experience living and working in multiple countries, demonstrating a global mindset and cultural awareness.
• Excellent stakeholder‑management skills, able to influence without authority and communicate complex concepts to senior leadership.
• Agile learner with an entrepreneurial spirit, comfortable challenging the status quo.

Required skills

• Deep financial analysis and reporting expertise.
• Strong understanding of financial governance, risk management and compliance.
• Experience with digital finance tools and AI‑driven financial technology.