Finance Manager

As a Finance Manager you will play a critical role in overseeing the financial operations and ensuring fiscal responsibility within the department. You will utilise your expertise in financial management to support strategic decision-making, maintain accurate financial records, and ensure compliance with relevant regulations and policies.

Client Details

Offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, this institution is dedicated to academic excellence, research innovation, and intellectual inquiry. With a diverse and vibrant community of faculty, students, and staff, this institution is committed to fostering a culture of learning, critical thinking, and global citizenship. Its contributions to research, education, and society at large have made it a leading institution on the international stage.

Description

1. Financial Planning and Budgeting:

   • Collaborate with department heads to develop annual budgets and financial forecasts aligned with the university's strategic objectives.
   • Monitor budget performance, analyse variances, and provide recommendations for corrective actions as needed.
   • Prepare comprehensive financial reports and presentations for senior management and governing bodies.

2. Financial Analysis and Reporting:

   • Conduct financial analysis to support decision-making processes, including cost-benefit analysis, financial modelling, and scenario planning.
   • Generate regular financial reports, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, to track financial performance and inform stakeholders.
   • Provide insights into key financial metrics, trends, and risks to facilitate informed decision-making.

3. Grants and Fund Management:

   • Oversee the financial management of grants and research funds, ensuring compliance with grant requirements and regulations.
   • Coordinate with grant administrators and principal investigators to prepare grant budgets, monitor expenditures, and report on grant financial to funding agencies.
   • Assist in the preparation and submission of grant proposals, budget justifications, and financial reports.

4. Internal Controls and Compliance:

   • Establish and maintain internal controls to safeguard university assets and ensure compliance with accounting principles, regulatory requirements, and institutional policies.
   • Conduct regular audits and reviews of financial processes to identify areas for improvement and mitigate financial risks.
   • Stay updated on relevant laws, regulations, and industry best practices pertaining to financial management in higher education.

5. Team Leadership and Collaboration:

   • Supervise and mentor finance staff, providing guidance, training, and performance feedback to foster professional development and ensure departmental goals are met.
   • Collaborate with colleagues across departments, including procurement, human resources, and academic units, to streamline financial processes, resolve issues, and support organisational objectives.

Profile

The successful Finance Manager will have:

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field; advanced degree (e.g., MBA, CPA) preferred.
• Proven experience in financial management, budgeting, and analysis, preferably in a higher education environment.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles, financial regulations, and compliance requirements applicable to universities.
• Proficiency in financial software (e.g. ERP systems, Excel) and analytical tools for financial modelling and reporting.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present complex financial information clearly and effectively to diverse stakeholders.
• Strong leadership abilities with experience in team management, collaboration, and fostering a culture of accountability and integrity.

Job Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition assistance for eligible employees and their dependants.
• Excellent pension.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a dynamic and supportive university environment.