Finance Manager

About the role

Somerset College, an independent school on the Gold Coast, is looking for an experienced Finance Manager to join its Business Services team, reporting directly to the Head of Business Services. The role leads the college's financial operations, covering financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, payroll, taxation, cash flow, accounts payable and receivable, audit coordination and financial controls, and works with leaders in catering, retail and other support services.

Key responsibilities

• Lead financial accounting, reporting, budgeting and forecasting, and prepare accurate, timely reports, budgets, forecasts and variance analysis.
• Manage cash flow, investments and financial planning to support long-term sustainability.
• Ensure compliance with financial, taxation, payroll, superannuation, employment legislation, industrial instruments and wage obligations, and statutory reporting.
• Oversee payroll operations, including employee entitlements, salary packaging, superannuation and regulatory reporting.
• Coordinate the annual external audit and reporting obligations for associated entities, trusts and funds.
• Develop and monitor financial controls, governance frameworks, policies and procedures.
• Drive process improvements and systems optimisation across finance and business services.
• Provide financial advice, budget support and commercial insights to college leaders.
• Lead, mentor and develop the Accounts team.
• Build strong relationships with leaders across operational, retail, hospitality and support service areas.

Required profile

• Tertiary qualification in Accounting, Finance, Commerce or a related discipline.
• CPA or CA qualification.
• Significant experience as a Finance Manager, Financial Controller or comparable senior finance role.
• Experience overseeing payroll governance, financial controls, risk management and regulatory compliance in a complex organisation.
• Proven experience developing financial controls, governance frameworks and business improvement initiatives.
• Strong leadership, mentoring and stakeholder management skills; experience in education, not-for-profit or community organisations is highly regarded.
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a Queensland Working with Children Blue Card.

Required skills

• Financial management, budgeting, forecasting and management accounting
• Statutory reporting and payroll legislation
• Analytical, problem-solving and decision-making abilities

What we offer

• Competitive remuneration and employee benefits including onsite gym, barista and catering, and an Employee Assistance Program.
• Professional growth opportunities through ongoing learning and development.
• A supportive, collegial culture and a location on the Gold Coast.

To apply, submit a cover letter and resume with two referees through SEEK; applications are assessed as they arrive.