Business unit finance director

Organization

Jifmar, headquartered in Aix-en-Provence, France, is a leading global maritime operator providing integrated marine and subsea engineering solutions. The company combines strong profitability with steady growth—both organically and through acquisitions—and is backed by respected private equity sponsors.

In 2022, Jifmar’s vision was reinforced when the European infrastructure fund Marguerite II acquired a majority stake. Growth accelerated in December 2023 with the acquisition of Acta Marine’s workboat activities, adding 26 vessels, their crews, and operations to its portfolio. This deal led to the creation of Acta Jifmar B.V. and established a strong base in Den Helder, the Netherlands.

Today, Jifmar is the world’s largest independent workboat operator, with a fleet of more than 70 vessels. Operating models have been smoothly integrated, with chartering and vessel maintenance managed locally in the Netherlands and major contracting operations coordinated from France.

While back-office integration is progressing well, the company continues to align its culture, systems, and processes, creating opportunities for new team members to make a tangible impact.

The job profile

Being in the midst of internal transformation and international expansion, Jifmar offers an opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping its growth journey, driving regional strategic initiatives and performance improvements. To strengthen its team, Jifmar is seeking an experienced Business Unit Finance Director to oversee financial management for its Dutch subsidiaries and the Global Chartering Business Unit.

This role reports directly to Govert-Jan van Oord, General Manager Netherlands and Head of the Chartering Business Unit, and to Alexis Blavette, Group Deputy General Manager & CFO based in Aix-en-Provence. Operating within an international matrix organization, the Finance Director will collaborate across borders and periodically travel to France to maintain strong Group connections.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead the local implementation of Microsoft Dynamics Business Central, harmonizing accounting, reporting, and operational processes across business units and with the Group.
• Chair monthly reporting meetings, reviewing P&L, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow performance.
• Ensure structured financial reporting, consolidation, and compliance with Group policies, guaranteeing accurate closings, audit readiness, and transparency for the PE shareholder.
• Oversee the monthly closing process, prepare financial reports for the Dutch entities and the Chartering Business Unit, and present results in line with Group timelines and standards.
• Manage the full planning and control cycle for the Dutch entities, aligning with Group strategy.
• Coordinate budgeting, forecasting, and multi-year strategic planning, partnering with the Management Team, business finance managers, and Group leadership.
• Deliver ad-hoc financial analyses and forecasts to support strategic projects and initiatives.

“Together, let’s build the maritime world of tomorrow”.

The ideal candidate

The ideal candidate is hands-on, pragmatic, and execution-driven, unafraid to engage in day-to-day operations while keeping sight of strategic objectives. This role requires someone who can optimize processes, maintain oversight, and deliver real-time insights into high-level goals. Flexibility, precision, analytical thinking, strategic vision, and a practical mindset are essential.

Requirements:

• A completed higher degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, or a related discipline from a recognized university; additional professional qualifications such as RA, CPA, or ACCA are highly advantageous.
• 8+ years of experience in a senior finance role.
• Proficiency in English and Dutch; French is an advantage.
• Willingness to travel internationally to strengthen collaboration and alignment.

Personal Competencies:

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• A proven change agent, skilled at setting priorities and ensuring effective execution.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• A collaborative team player who can take an independent stance, challenge constructively, and drive toward common goals.
• Sympathetic, efficient, structured, and quick-thinking.