OVERVIEW:

Responsible for the testing of financial controls and compliance with Publicis Groupe policies across the Europe entities in all Publicis practices.

REPORTING:

Reporting to the Financial Monitoring Controls Director - EMEA

RESPONSIBILITES:    

The role involves the following:

• Performance of on-site testing of finance processes and controls for agencies (with focus on revenue recognition)
• Testing involves:
  • Preparation of an audit file evidencing the testing performed and conclusions
  • Identification and assessment of control exceptions and deficiencies including related risk assessment
  • Presentation and agreement of action plans with local management for the remediation of control deficiencies
  • Preparation of reports detailing deficiencies and recommendations for improvements.
• Execute an efficient and effective assessment approach to ensure that all assigned work is completed according to schedule and within the established budget parameters.
• Perform all assigned duties in a manner that reflects the highest professional standards
• Communication of latest Groupe guidelines and best practices (relating to internal controls and compliance matters) to CFOs and training/induction of new agencies in Groupe policies and Best Practices
• Supporting the FMC team in the drafting and review of audit tools and Best Practices guidelines
• Other ad hoc finance related projects as may arise from time to time

BACKGROUND:

The candidate should have the following background:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in Audit (external and/or internal) with Big 4 experience (incl. Grant Thornton, BDO, Mazars)
• Ability to speak and write clearly and fluently in English
• Knowledge of GAAP/IFRS and audit techniques
• Proficient in MS Word and Excel
• Experience in advertising and/or media (preferable, but not required)
• Qualified Chartered Accountant or other Audit/Accounting certification (preferable, but not required)

PERSONAL TRAITS:

The ideal candidate should possess the following personal characteristics:

• Excellent spoken and written English
• High ethical standards and integrity; able to be a champion of the company’s value system.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
• Persistent and diligent in following through projects to closure
• Strong written and oral communication skills with the ability to communicate confidently with senior management
• Proactive, with abundant energy and drive, and a strong desire to succeed
• Prepared to spend 30-40% of the time travelling throughout EMEA