Job purpose
The Strategic and Commercial Controller supports business performance by providing financial insight, commercial analysis, and strategic decision support. The role acts as a key business partner to the Management Team, helping to drive profitable growth, improve decision-making, improve efficiency and ensure financial discipline across strategic initiatives.
Key responsibilities and activities
Business partnering and decision support
- Partner with all Management Team members to support strategic and operational decision-making, identifying new growth or efficiency opportunities.
- Translate business strategies into financial implications and performance targets.
- Identify value creation opportunities and risks to revenue and margin delivery.
- Partner with RMG to deliver on margin delivery projects.
- Provide financial analysis and recommendations for strategic decisions and investments, including business cases and scenarios.
- Supervise performance tracking against RoFo and AP and ensure monthly reports prepared by HBS are shared with Sales, Marketing, and support function Directors.
Planning, budgeting and forecasting
- Lead RoFo, AP and SP processes.
- In collaboration with the team, consolidate budgets from all departments for discussion with the Management Team, in line with Heineken expectations and guidelines.
- Prepare financial models, scenarios, and sensitivity analyses.
- Explain variances, trends, and key business drivers to management.
- Ensure accuracy and consistency of financial data and assumptions.
Business performance management
- Present performance to the local Management Team and ad hoc to AME Regional Management.
- Facilitate target setting and monitor and challenge performance, including STIs.
- Contribute to F&F and productivity improvement in close collaboration with the F&F Lead.
- Ensure quality of internal control within the scope.
Leadership and team management
- Provide direction, coaching, and performance management to the Commercial and Strategic Analysts.
- Set priorities, monitor delivery, and ensure quality of outputs across the team.
- Develop team capability and support succession planning.
- Relieve the Finance Director when out of office.
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Internal and external relationships
The role requires highly proficient strategic communication with all departments in the organization, Heineken AME Regional Management, Heineken AME Regional Finance, Heineken Corporate Control & Accounting, Heineken Corporate Finance, external auditors, and macro-economic advisers.
Qualifications and skills
- Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, and possibly Commerce.
- 7–10 years of experience within industry and the finance function; additional commercial experience is a plus.
- At least 2 years in a senior or managerial leadership role.
- Fluency in English and Kinyarwanda; French is an added advantage.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools.
- In-depth knowledge of International Finance & Reporting Standards, Heineken reporting requirements, and financial analysis.
- Outstanding knowledge of business developments and the socio-economic environment.
Growing with Bralirwa
At Bralirwa, there is no fixed career path. The company offers continuous learning opportunities and colleagues who encourage curiosity, innovation, and growth.
What we offer
Bralirwa is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. The compensation package includes salary, annual bonus, pension scheme, medical insurance, and other benefits in line with company policy.
How to apply
Applicants must apply using the online application system at https://careers.theheinekencompany.com. Applications via email or standard post will not be considered. For application challenges, contact [email protected]; applications will not be accepted through this email. The closing date is Friday, 23rd October 2026.