Financial Controller

Do you have a passion for numbers, a heart for early childhood education, and a talent for leading teams?

Whānau Manaaki Kindergartens is a leading not-for-profit dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education experiences for tamariki. We believe in the right to quality early childhood education for every child in Aotearoa. We're seeking a highly motivated and experienced Financial Controller & Team Lead to join our whānau and play a vital role in ensuring our financial sustainability and leading our dedicated finance team.

About the Role

This is more than just a finance role; it's an opportunity to contribute directly to the future of early childhood education while leading and inspiring a team of finance professionals. As our Financial Controller & Team Lead, you'll be the financial heart of our organisation, responsible for overseeing all financial aspects, from strategic planning and reporting to budgeting, compliance, risk management, and team leadership. Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer, you'll provide critical financial guidance and empower your team to support our mission and ensure the long-term health of our organisation.

What You'll Do

1. Team Leadership & Development: Lead, mentor, and inspire the finance team, fostering a positive and collaborative environment where everyone can thrive. Provide guidance, support, and professional development opportunities to empower your team members to reach their full potential.
2. Strategic Financial Leadership: Contribute to the development and implementation of our strategic plan, providing financial insights and recommendations to support informed decision-making.
3. Financial Stewardship: Oversee all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and internal controls. Ensure accuracy, transparency, and compliance with all relevant regulations.
4. Risk Management: Identify and assess financial risks, implementing strategies to mitigate those risks and protect our organisation.
5. Team Collaboration: Work closely with our Kindergarten based teams, and the operational teams providing financial expertise and guidance.
6. Relationship Building: Develop and maintain strong relationships with our operational teams, Kindergartens, Auditors and other external stakeholders.
7. Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities to improve financial processes and systems, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness.

What You'll Bring

1. Tertiary qualified in accounting or other relevant qualification.
2. Proven leadership experience with a passion for mentoring and developing team members.
3. Experience in financial management, ideally in the not-for-profit sector.
4. Strong knowledge of accounting principles and practices.
5. Experience with budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and internal controls.
6. Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Excel.
7. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
8. A passion for early childhood education and a commitment to our Kaupapa.

Why Join Us?

1. Be part of a dedicated team making a real difference in the lives of tamariki.
2. Contribute to a values-driven organisation that prioritises whānau and communities.
3. Enjoy a rewarding career where you can use your skills to lead and empower others.

Ready to Make a Difference and Lead the Way?

If you're a passionate and experienced financial professional with a talent for leadership and a heart for early childhood education, we encourage you to apply Whānau Manaaki Kindergartens is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates.

Applications close Thursday, 20th March at 11.50pm

To apply for this role, you must be eligible to work in Aotearoa New Zealand. You can apply for this role and see a copy of the full job description through our website. Alternatively, to writing a cover letter, we welcome a short video that gives us an understanding of who you are, why this role appeals to you and what qualities you have that would make you a great candidate.

Please note that we will be shortlisting candidates as we receive applications and may close the vacancy if suitable candidates are identified prior to the closing date.

For a full position description and to apply for this role, please visit www.wmkindergartens.org.nz/join-our-team/ or contact leigh.comeskey@wmkindergartens.org.nz