Chief Financial Officer (CFO) – Lead Finance Strategy

About the role

Merchant Bank of Sri Lanka & Finance PLC (MBSL), a subsidiary of Bank of Ceylon, invites applications from accomplished finance professionals for the position of Chief Financial Officer. The successful candidate will lead the Company’s financial function, provide strategic direction and support sustainable business growth through effective financial management, governance and performance oversight.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the Company’s financial strategy, planning and performance management.
• Provide strategic financial advice to the CEO, Board and Executive Management.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, financial resource management and profitability.
• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting and compliance with regulatory requirements, including those of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.
• Deliver financial analysis and business intelligence to support informed decision‑making.
• Manage relationships with regulators, auditors, investors and other key stakeholders.
• Drive financial transformation, digitisation, process improvements and cost optimisation.
• Lead and develop a high‑performing finance team, including succession planning and talent development.

Required profile

• A bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration or a related discipline.
• A full professional qualification such as ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent, with membership in a recognised professional body.
• A minimum of 10 years of post‑qualification experience, including at least 6 years in a senior leadership role within a bank, finance company or regulated financial institution.
• An MBA or MSc would be an added advantage.
• Strong strategic, analytical, commercial, negotiation and decision‑making capabilities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with experience engaging with Boards, regulators and external stakeholders.