Finance Controller

Our client in the transport and logistics industry is seeking a highly analytical, detail-oriented, and commercially focused Finance Controller - Logistics to oversee financial analysis, cost control, and performance reporting for the logistics function. The successful candidate will be responsible for analysing transport costs, monitoring operational financial performance, reconciling operational and financial data, supporting budgeting and forecasting activities, strengthening internal financial controls, and identifying opportunities to improve profitability and operational efficiency. This role requires a strong financial professional with excellent analytical capabilities, advanced Excel skills, and the ability to partner with operations to drive informed business decisions.

Responsibilities: Prepare detailed route-wise transport costing and analyse transport expenses across the logistics operation. Monitor and analyse cost per kilometre, vehicle profitability, and overall fleet operating performance. Identify, recommend, and support the implementation of cost reduction initiatives to improve operational efficiency. Prepare accurate weekly and monthly logistics financial reports, dashboards, and management performance reports. Analyse fleet operating expenses and provide detailed variance analysis against budgets and forecasts. Review repair and maintenance expenses to ensure cost effectiveness and financial accuracy. Verify operational advances, exceptional payments, and other logistics-related financial transactions. Investigate abnormal operating costs and recommend corrective actions to management. Support the preparation of annual budgets, financial plans, and periodic forecasts for the logistics function. Reconcile GPS kilometre data with accounting records to ensure financial and operational accuracy. Validate fuel consumption and analyse fuel efficiency across the fleet. Review repair costs against vehicle utilization to identify performance trends and cost-saving opportunities. Ensure operational data is accurately reflected within financial records and reporting systems. Develop and maintain Excel-based costing models to support pricing decisions and business analysis. Analyse profitability by customer, vehicle, and transport route to support strategic decision-making. Prepare financial forecasts and provide insights into logistics performance and future cost trends. Identify unusual financial transactions, support fraud prevention initiatives, and strengthen internal financial controls. Recommend process improvements that enhance financial reporting accuracy, operational efficiency, and compliance. Maintain logistics financial databases and support ERP and Tally reporting requirements. Automate recurring financial reports and improve reporting processes where possible.

Requirements Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Commerce, or a related field. Minimum of 3-7 years of experience in finance, financial analysis, cost accounting, or a related role. Previous experience within the transport, logistics, manufacturing, or similar operational industries is highly preferred. Strong understanding of transport costing, operational finance, budgeting, and financial reporting. Demonstrated experience analysing operational costs, vehicle profitability, and financial performance. Strong Excel skills with the ability to build advanced financial models, costing templates, and management dashboards. Experience working with Tally ERP or similar accounting systems. Experience reconciling GPS, fuel, or other operational data with financial records is highly desirable. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail. Ability to identify financial risks, investigate variances, and recommend practical business solutions. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the confidence to challenge operational assumptions where necessary. Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and reporting deadlines. High level of integrity and commitment to maintaining strong financial controls and compliance standards. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Knowledge of Swahili is considered an added advantage. Previous experience working within Tanzania is preferred.