BlackLine SmartClose Expert - Freelance (remote)

We are supporting a global finance transformation initiative and are looking for an experienced **BlackLine SmartClose Expert** with strong **hands-on expertise in SmartClose configuration and table design**. The role focuses on optimizing and automating complex month-end close processes in a global environment. **Framework Conditions** * **Start:** TBD * **Duration:** Approx. 9 months * **Location:** Switzerland (remote) * **Language:** English (fluent) * **Contract Type:** Freelance * **Eligibility:** Only candidates based within the EU can be considered * Act as a **BlackLine SmartClose expert** with a strong focus on **hands-on configuration and table design** * Design, build, and maintain **SmartClose templates, tables, and workflows**, including dependencies, logic, and automation rules * Translate financial close requirements into **functional SmartClose configurations** * Optimize and standardize **global month-end closing processes** using BlackLine SmartClose * Drive automation to improve efficiency, transparency, and reduce manual effort * Collaborate with Finance and IT to ensure **integration (e.g., SAP ↔ BlackLine)** * Ensure proper **process governance, documentation (SOPs), and KPI definition** * Support **change management, user enablement, and training** * Act as SME in **ERP and integration-related initiatives** ers and team members on **best practices in SmartClose design and usage** * 5–7 years of experience in **Finance, Accounting, or Business Process Management** * Strong expertise in **month-end close processes and financial operations** * **Proven hands-on experience with BlackLine SmartClose**, especially: \- Creating and configuring SmartClose tables and templates \- Designing task dependencies, workflows, and automation logic \- Implementing and optimizing end-to-end close cycles * Experience working with SAP Fiori applications in the context of financial processes and close activities * Experience integrating **BlackLine with ERP systems (preferably SAP FI/CO)** * Solid understanding of **financial compliance frameworks (e.g., IFRS, ICFR)** * Strong technical affinity to translate business requirements into system solutions * Experience in **process optimization methodologies** (Lean, Six Sigma, BPM) * Familiarity with **Agile/Scrum methodologies** * Excellent stakeholder management skills in global, matrix organizations * Strong communication and collaboration skills across business and IT teams * Fluent English (spoken and written)