Finance Lead - Operating Model Consultant

We are representing a specialist Financial Services consultancy that has recently secured a high-profile engagement to transform the finance function of a leading Middle Eastern payments firm. Our client is a pioneer in the "Buy Now, Pay Later" (BNPL) space, with a specific focus on Sharia-compliant and Islamic finance solutions. Following a successful RFP response, we are looking for a Finance Lead to spearhead an intensive 8-week review of their finance operating model. This project has scope to expand but the initial 8 weeks has been signed off. You will be the Subject Matter Expert (SME) at the heart of this project, auditing the intersection of people, technology, and processes to define the future of their finance department. Key Deliverables/Project Scope:

• Leading a comprehensive audit of the current finance function to identify inefficiencies and pain points.
• A primary focus of this engagement is identifying how the firm manages its finance data and proposing a more robust, scalable architecture.
• You will not be working in isolation; you will lead a dedicated project squad of 4-5 consultants, including a Business Analyst, to execute the review.
• Producing a high-level final report that outlines findings and provides a roadmap for the implementation of a modernised operating model., High-Impact Project: Take full ownership of a strategic review for a rapidly growing international FinTech leader.
• Specialist Collaboration: Work alongside an elite team of consultants in a fast-paced, high-standard environment.
• Short-Term Focus: A concentrated, 8-week sprint with the potential for follow-on advisory work as the roadmap is implemented.
  
  Leadership Pedigree: Demonstrable experience leading a finance department or function (CFO, Finance Director, or Head of Finance level).
• Data Expertise: A strong background in finance data management; you should understand how data flows through a modern payments organisation.
• Consultative Approach: The ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments and translate operational observations into strategic recommendations.
• Industry Context: While the team provides deep Sharia/Islamic Finance expertise, prior exposure to these frameworks or the broader Payments/FinTech sector is highly advantageous.