Head of Finance & Accounting - Banking

Client:

The bank is a well-established private institution with a small but expanding office in central Geneva. Fully regulated in Switzerland, it has a solid shareholder base and an entrepreneurial culture. For many years, it has provided traditional private banking services and is recognized as a highly respected global brand.

Head of Finance & Accounting - Banking

The Role:

This position is ideal for someone with a strong CFO or Head of Accounting & Finance background - from private banking. In this broad, senior position, your role will essentially be to ensure the smooth running of accounting, operational, and risk management processes. Reporting directly to the CEO, this role is central to overseeing financial operations, compliance, and risk management across the bank. The role requires full-time presence in the Geneva office; remote work is not available.

Key Responsibilities:

• Supervise daily accounting, treasury, and back-office operations, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Monitor and manage operational and compliance risks, including asset management and investments.
• Review monthly financial statements and ensure timely legal reporting.
• Implement and adapt procedures to optimise operations and follow audit recommendations.
• Support HR processes, including payroll, social security, and insurance.
• Participate in committees and coordinate projects as requested by management.
• Prepare documentation and reports for the Board of Directors in coordination with the CEO.

Profile:

• 8-10+ years of experience in accounting, finance, and Swiss banking risk management (including FINMA reporting a must).
• Experience as CFO, Head of Finance, or in Big 4 auditing small banks.
• Hands-on leader with experience managing a small team and operational processes.
• Previous experience in Swiss Category 4 or 5 banks preferred.
• Knowledge of compliance, operational risk, credit risk, and treasury management.
• Fluent/Mother-tongue French speaker with fluent English; strong IT skills.
• Swiss resident preferred; cross-border commuters considered.

Why Join:

• Join a small, agile team with a direct impact on operations and strategy.
• Work in an entrepreneurial environment with a practical, results-oriented approach.
• Contribute to the growth and success of a globally respected private bank.

Avenue du Théâtre 7 1005 Lausanne