Finance Manager/ Controller - Groep Baert

Help build the financial integration of a strong Belgian company within an international group

Groep Baert has been an established name for years in didactic materials, school supplies, and solutions for childcare and primary education. With the recent acquisition by the Swedish Eduviva Group, Groep Baert's position within an international context is further strengthened. Eduviva is an international player specializing in creative and educational products.

Logistical activities remain anchored in Belgium, while we further align our financial processes within the international group. To support this transition and further professionalize the financial organization, we are looking for a Finance Manager / Controller.

In this key role, you will get the unique opportunity to help build the financial reporting structure, professionalize processes, and act as the bridge between the Belgian activities and the headquarters in Sweden.

Your challenge As Finance Manager / Controller, you are responsible for the financial reporting of three Belgian companies to the international group. You will work closely with the Swedish headquarters and play a central role in setting up reporting structures that are still fully under development. You will be given the space to take initiative, shape processes, and achieve a lasting impact.

Your responsibilities Financial reporting & consolidation

• Monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting of three Belgian companies to the group.
• Preparing and analyzing management reports and financial KPIs.
• Preparing and coordinating consolidations.
• Correct application of IFRS within the group reporting.
• Reporting in the group consolidation system.

Closings & controlling

• Coordinating closings.
• Analyzing financial results versus budget and forecast.
• Preparing budgets, forecasts, and financial analyses.
• Identifying risks and opportunities for improvement.
• Cost controlling and profitability analyses for the companies within Groep Baert.

Team management

• Leading, coaching, and guiding a finance team of three employees.
• Organizing the daily operations of the department.
• Acting as a sparring partner and substantive mentor for the team.

Structure & professionalization

• Expanding reporting and control processes within an environment in full evolution.
• Implementing best practices regarding financial processes and internal controls.
• Actively contributing to the further integration within the international group.

International cooperation

• Daily alignment with finance stakeholders in Sweden.
• Participation in daily status meetings.
• Translating group requirements into efficient local operations.
• Financial point of contact between Belgium and the international organization.

Audit & compliance

• Primary point of contact for external auditors.
• Coordinating audit processes.
• Monitoring compliance with local regulations and group standards.
• Master's degree in an economic/financial direction or equivalent through experience
• 5 to 10 years of experience in controlling or finance management
• Experience with consolidation and group reporting.
• IFRS knowledge.
• Asset: experience within a private equity environment or an international group.
• Experience with reporting tools is a plus.
• Strong analytical skills and a critical mindset.
• Independent, proactive, and entrepreneurial mindset.
• Fluent communicator who moves easily in an international context.
• Professional knowledge of English.