California Fitness needs a first-class candidate with business expertise to drive the company forward Individuals with first-class communication skills are invited to apply for a head of finance role in Hong Kong. A rapidly expanding fitness organisation that is part of a worldwide chain of fitness centres needs a new finance manager. Established in 1996, California Fitness boasts more than 2,500 staff in Asia, of whom about 1,000 are based in Hong Kong. The company is expanding across Asia and aims to be a leader in best practice accounting. 'This is neither a desk job nor a typical finance manager role,' said Terence Kam, regional director, finance at California Fitness. 'We require a first-class candidate with excellent business acumen to move the company forward. You should be leading the team and co-ordinating various functions, for the back office as well as at the top level.' About 10 staff report to the person in this role, which is divided into revenue and accounts payable. 'Our company offers an energetic and challenging environment,' Mr Kam said. 'It is a very exciting and challenging time as we are expanding and have the goal of opening 100 clubs by 2016. Right now we have 25 clubs in Asia.' California Fitness does not have a golden rule in terms of the ideal candidate and keeps an open mind about qualifications and experience. Applicants should be degree holders and either fellows of the ACCA or chartered accountants. A minimum of eight years of experience in accounting is preferred, of which more than four years should have been in a managerial role at a sizeable organisation. 'In terms of personality, everyone here has high integrity and is detail oriented, open minded, good at communication and an active listener,' Mr Kam said. 'In the three-stage interview process, you should show your passion, demonstrate your ability and indicate that your achievements are key winning factors for this position.' Although the role is based in Hong Kong, the successful candidate will be encouraged to spend about 20 per cent of working hours with other departments across Asia in order to share experiences. There are ample promotion prospects within the company, with vertical movement likely from the role of finance manager to country finance controller, regional finance controller and finally regional finance director. High potential candidates are also offered training and can even obtain sponsorship for academic courses, such as an EMBA, organised by Kellogg-HKUST. 'Our mission is to 'Live Better Through Fitness' and our employees are the key to fulfilling that mission,' Mr Kam said. 'If you're looking for an opportunity to incorporate your personal health, wellness, and fitness values into your professional life, work with us and change a life - maybe even your own.'