Business Controller - Energy

About the role

Petra Group is supporting a confidential international industrial client in the search for a Business Controller based in the Northeast region of Brazil (Recife region, Cabo de Santo Agostinho, Pernambuco). The role combines financial leadership with exposure to payroll and operational support, in a structured but evolving environment with strong interaction across finance, operations and HR.

Key responsibilities

• Finance and accounting: manage budgeting, forecasting and reporting; lead monthly closing and ensure accurate financial statements
• Ensure compliance with local regulations and international standards (IFRS/US GAAP); maintain internal controls and support audits
• Oversee tax compliance (ICMS, PIS/COFINS, etc.) and act as a business partner to improve financial performance and working capital
• Manage ERP systems and reporting tools and interface with global finance teams
• Payroll and workforce cost management: coordinate payroll, handle payroll accounting and reconciliations, monitor workforce costs and support financial planning
• Act as the key interface between Finance and HR, and drive process improvements and compliance with company policies and Brazilian legislation
• Support workforce analytics and reporting

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration or a related field
• Solid experience in finance/accounting roles, preferably in multinational environments
• Exposure to payroll and HR operations
• Fluent English is mandatory

Required skills

• Strong knowledge of Brazilian tax and labor regulations
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g. SAP)
• Analytical and problem-solving skills, strong attention to detail, effective communication and stakeholder management, and ability to work cross-functionally

What we offer

• CLT employment contract aligned with multinational standards
• Competitive fixed annual compensation and an annual bonus based on company results and individual performance
• Full benefits package in line with market practice
• Opportunity to join a greenfield/start-up phase operation with high visibility and impact