Finance Director - Construction & AV

We are partnering with a well-established, US-headquartered organisation operating in the construction and audiovisual integration sector to appoint a Finance Director for their rapidly expanding German operations. This is far more than a traditional accounting role, it's a chance to become the financial architect behind a business experiencing significant growth across Europe.

Based in the Frankfurt region, you will take ownership of the finance function, building and mentoring a team of three while acting as a trusted strategic partner to both the local Managing Director and the US-based CFO. Your remit will span financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, ERP optimisation, and cross-border collaboration – all within a project-driven environment.

What you'll be doing:

• Spearhead the finance function for Germany, owning everything from month-end close to long-range strategic planning
• Build, lead, and develop a finance team of three, cultivating a culture rooted in accountability and shared ownership
• Serve as a strategic advisor to the German and US leadership teams, translating financial data into actionable business insights
• Drive ERP implementation and optimisation to support scalable, efficient operations across multiple locations
• Oversee project-based financial management – tracking hours, materials, and margins with precision
• Ensure full compliance with German financial regulations (HGB, VAT, tax) and internal governance standards
• Partner with finance colleagues across Europe to harmonise practices and support cross-border initiatives

Requirements

Essential

• University degree with a strong emphasis in Accounting or Finance
• Senior finance leadership experience at Head-of-Finance level (or equivalent) within a German business environment
• Demonstrable background in construction, audiovisual (AV), or other project-based industries involving both labour and materials
• Deep understanding of project accounting, cost control, work-in-process (WIP), and profitability analysis
• Proven track record of leading and developing finance teams
• Ability to connect financial data to broader business strategy and operational objectives – a true business partner, not just a number-cruncher
• Fluency in both German and English (written and spoken) is non-negotiable
• Solid command of German GAAP (HGB), VAT, and local tax compliance
• Experience with ERP systems, ideally operating them alongside DATEV
• A proactive, hands-on mindset with the confidence to challenge the status quo and collaborate effectively with cross-border stakeholders

Preferred

• CPA, Chartered Accountant, Wirtschaftsprüfer, or equivalent professional qualification
• Direct experience in specialty construction and/or audio-visual integration sectors
• Familiarity with US GAAP reporting and transfer pricing (the parent company reports under US GAAP)
• Background in high-growth businesses or organisations with an expanding international footprint
• Experience leading system implementations, process transformations, or change management programmes
• Formal project management credentials or experience

Benefits

• Competitive salary of €80,000 – €120,000 per annum
• 30 days of paid annual leave, plus one additional day of special leave
• Company pension plan (betriebliche Altersvorsorge)
• Capital formation benefit (vermögenswirksame Leistungen)
• Comprehensive German benefits package

Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy (Germany)

Equal Opportunity Statement

Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to equal employment opportunity. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to ethnic origin, race, gender, religion or belief, disability, age, or sexual orientation, in accordance with the German General Equal Treatment Act (Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz – AGG).

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful working environment in which all individuals are valued and treated fairly.

Reasonable Accommodations

We are committed to supporting individuals with disabilities and ensuring equal access to employment opportunities. Where required, reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with applicable German laws. Candidates are encouraged to inform us of any specific needs during the recruitment process.

Compensation Information

Where applicable, compensation ranges may be included in job postings or communicated during the recruitment process. Compensation decisions are based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity, in line with applicable laws including the German Pay Transparency Act (Entgelttransparenzgesetz).

Compliance with Laws

Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable German and European Union laws governing employment and non-discrimination. This includes all aspects of employment such as recruitment, hiring, promotion, compensation, training, and termination.

Workplace Harassment

Any form of discrimination, harassment, or unequal treatment based on protected characteristics as defined under the AGG is strictly prohibited.

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Salary Transparency and Equal Pay

We are committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. In line with the German Pay Transparency Act, candidates may request information regarding compensation structures where applicable.

Local Law Compliance

Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable local, regional, and national employment laws and regulations in Germany.

Use of Artificial Intelligence in Recruitment

Keller Executive Search and our clients may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the recruitment process. These tools are used solely to support human decision-making by helping to review and assess candidate qualifications. AI is not used to make automated hiring decisions. All decisions are made by qualified human professionals to ensure fairness, consistency, and compliance with applicable laws.

Note

This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be disclosed during the recruitment process. Employment terms and conditions may vary depending on the employing entity and location.