Senior Financial Controller (F/M/X)

Solvay is all about chemistry. We’re not just referring to chemical reactions here, but also to the magic that occurs when the brightest minds get to work together. This is where our true strength lies. In you. In your future colleagues and in all your differences. And of course, in your ideas to improve lives while preserving our planet’s beauty for the generations to come.

About the role

Our team, composed of 5 people, is integrated into the Corporate Controlling department and works in collaboration with the different GBUs (Global Business Units).

As a Senior Financial Controller you will be a key finance business partner to the R&I Leadership Team, responsible for providing clear insight into the financial performance of the Research & Innovation function and its impact on the Group’s financial statements. The role leads the monthly closing, forecasting, budgeting, and long-term planning processes, ensuring robust financial analysis, accurate reporting, and effective communication with senior stakeholders, including R&I Directors, Finance Directors, and executive leadership. The successful candidate will be expected to confidently challenge assumptions, influence decision-making, and translate complex financial data into actionable business recommendations.

In addition, the role serves as the key finance counterpart for funding activities. The controller will ensure accurate financial monitoring of the Group's portfolio, providing end-to-end financial support to the Funding Department, including preparation of financial information for funding submissions, monitoring eligible costs, supporting audits and reviews by funding bodies, and ensuring compliance with grant and subsidy requirements. You will be accountable for:

• Lead financial planning and performance management for the R&I function, including closing, forecasting, budgeting, and long-term planning, providing insights on performance, risks, and opportunities.
• Partner with senior leaders to deliver financial reviews, business cases, investment analyses, and recommendations supporting strategic and innovation decisions.
• Drive resource and investment optimisation by managing workforce allocation, project economics, external spend, and funded project performance.
• Oversee funding financials, including grant budgeting, forecasting, reporting, compliance, cost eligibility, and funding claims.
• Ensure strong governance, controls, and risk management through compliance with accounting, audit, and funding requirements, while enhancing reporting and decision-support tools.

We offer a permanent  contract based on hybrid working mode.

About you

Relevant education degree or equivalent in Finance or Economics. Relevant work experience of at least 5 years in FP&A, Controlling, Project Controlling, or R&D/R&I Finance.

Competencies:

• Fluency in English
• Experience with funding programs, grants, innovation tax credits, or public research financing is highly desirable.
• Advanced proficiency in financial systems, reporting tools, and data analytics platforms.

Behaviors:

• Proven ability to influence and communicate effectively with Director-level and senior executive stakeholders.
• Strong analytical skills, business acumen, and experience managing complex, cross-functional environments.

About the pay

Attractive and equitable pay for all: compensation is determined within a range to foster your development in the role. The base pay expected for this role is € 37000 - € 46000 per year in Portugal. Your salary may ultimately be higher or lower based on your skills and experience. Additionally, we provide a competitive total rewards package that includes a bonus and/or other incentives.

Benefits:

• Solvay Cares program: minimum of 16 weeks of parenting leave for all employees and package with healthcare, disability and life insurance coverage.
• Prioritization of well-being: work-life balance promotion, flexible approach to work part-time or hybrid work arrangements (depending on the type of job), employee assistance program with access to physical and psychological support.
• Professional development: prioritization of internal talents for career progression, access to a training platform, opportunities to join Employee Resource Groups (ERG) for experience sharing and mentorship and free language courses.

About us

Solvay, a pioneering chemical company with a legacy rooted in founder Ernest Solvay's pivotal innovations in the soda ash process, is dedicated to delivering essential solutions globally through its workforce of over 9,000 employees. Since 1863, Solvay harnesses the power of chemistry to create innovative, sustainable solutions that answer the world’s most essential needs such as purifying the air we breathe and the water we drink, preserving our food supplies, protecting our health and well-being, creating eco-friendly clothing, making the tires of our cars more sustainable and cleaning and protecting our homes.

We value the diversity that individuals bring and we invite you to consider a future with us, regardless of background, age, gender, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, ability or identity. We encourage individuals who may require any assistance or accommodations to let us know to ensure a seamless application experience. We are here to support you throughout the application journey and want to ensure all candidates are treated equally. If you are unsure whether you meet all the criteria or qualifications listed in the job description, we still encourage you to apply.

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