Without the strength of the accounting team Positive Planet wouldn’t be able to offer the industry-leading services we’re known for. We’re seeking an experienced finance manager to oversee this high-performing team. The ideal candidate will have experience as an accountant in a comparable business, preferably in a management or supervisory role. As a strong communicator and skilled financial analyst, this person will streamline our budgeting, payroll, and financial reporting processes. The postholder will also produce thorough financial-status reports for senior managers to help improve our operational efficiency and aid in our continued growth.
Objectives
· Provide comprehensive financial updates to senior managers by evaluating, analysing and reporting appropriate data points
· Guide financial decisions by applying company policies and procedures to current economic landscape
· Develop, implement, and maintain financial controls and guidelines
· Achieve budgeting goals with proper scheduling, analysis, and corrective actions
· Maximise payroll efficiency through innovative process development
· Help develop and support short- and long-term operational strategies
Responsibilities
Financial Management & Reporting
* Prepare Financial Statements: Generate comprehensive monthly, quarterly and annual financial reports, ensuring accuracy and compliance with relevant accounting standards.
* Oversee Budgeting and Forecasting: Work closely with department heads to develop and monitor budgets, forecasts, and cash flow projections.
* Cash Flow Management: Regularly assess cash flow needs, ensuring optimal liquidity for operations and investments.
* Variance Analysis: Analyse financial performance against budget and provide insight on variances, suggesting corrective actions.
Xero Accounting Management
* Maintain Xero Accounting System: Oversee and manage Xero to ensure accuracy in data entry, reconciliation, and reporting.
* Xero Integration & Optimisation: Implement best practices in Xero usage and recommend improvements to streamline workflows and reporting processes.
* Invoice Processing and Accounts Receivable: Ensure timely invoicing to clients, monitor receivables, and follow up on outstanding invoices.
* Accounts Payable Management: Oversee payment schedules, approve payables, and ensure timely payments to vendors.
* Manage payroll: Manage and maintain employee data, sickness, holiday and performance bonus information and run monthly payroll for all employees.
Compliance and Audit
* Ensure Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with financial regulations, tax laws, and accounting standards.
* Tax Planning and Compliance: Collaborate with tax advisors to optimise tax efficiency and ensure timely filings and payments.
Strategic Financial Planning
* Develop Financial Strategy: Support the company’s strategic growth objectives with financial insights, long-term planning, and scenario analysis.
* Cost Control & Profitability Analysis: Identify cost-saving opportunities, assess profitability by project or client, and advise on pricing and margin optimization.
* Support Investment Decisions: Evaluate financial feasibility of new projects, initiatives, and acquisitions, providing management with actionable insights.
Team Leadership and Development
* Supervise Finance Team: Oversee daily activities of the finance team and build the capability to meet business requirements, fostering a culture of accuracy and accountability.
* Train Team on Xero and Financial Best Practices: Conduct training on Xero updates and efficient financial practices, ensuring consistency and accuracy.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
* Collaborate with Other Departments: Partner with sales, operations, and HR to provide financial insights that support decision-making and operational efficiency.
* Client Financial Relations: Engage with key clients on financial terms, resolving billing queries and maintaining positive financial relationships.
Financial Risk Management
* Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Identify financial risks, implement controls, and devise mitigation strategies for financial and operational risks.
Systems and Process Improvement
* Enhance Financial Processes: Continuously assess and improve financial processes for greater efficiency and control.
* Implement Financial Policies and Procedures: Develop, document, and enforce internal financial policies and procedures to maintain high standards of governance.
Required Skills
· Five or more years of professional accounting experience
· Strong understanding of banking processes and financial data analysis
· Working knowledge of tax regulations and compliance reporting
· Experience in managing payroll, with focus on streamlining accounting processes
· Exemplary history of financial project management