Finance Head

About the Job:

We are seeking a qualified Chartered Accountant with minimum 2 years of post-qualification experience for the position of Finance Head to oversee the financial operations of our group of educational institutions. The ideal candidate will be responsible for financial planning, budgeting, compliance, MIS reporting, and optimizing financial resources to support the institutions strategic goals.

Role & responsibilities:
Financial Planning and Budgeting

• Ability to prepare and manage budgets, ensuring financial resources aligns with the institutions academic and operational goals.
• Skills in budget forecasting, variance analysis, and identifying areas to optimize spending.

Financial Reporting and Statutory Compliance

• Expertise in preparing financial statements, ensuring timely reporting.
• Knowledge of state and federal guidelines for funding, grants, and charitable donations.
• Ensure compliance with applicable statutory requirements.

Cost Control and Efficiency Management

• Proficiency in identifying cost-saving opportunities and implementing measures to streamline operations without compromising quality.
• Ability to negotiate vendor contracts to optimize procurement and operational expenses.
• Implement internal controls to enhance financial efficiency and prevent revenue leakages.

Accounting and Auditing

• Strong grasp of accounting principles, especially fund accounting, commonly used in educational and nonprofit organizations.
• Skills in internal controls and auditing to maintain transparency and accountability.
• Liaise with external auditors to facilitate statutory audits, and tax audits, ensuring timely completion and compliance with applicable laws.

Grant Management and Fundraising Support

• Knowledge of grant writing and administration, ensuring funds are allocated correctly and reporting requirements are met.
• Collaboration with fundraising teams to develop strategies for donations, grants, and community contributions.
• Liaise with bankers and financial institutions to manage funding arrangements, loans, and other financial services to support institutional financing needs.

Data Analysis and Financial Modeling

• Proficiency in data analysis to assess financial trends, evaluate risks, and support strategic planning.
• Skills in creating financial models to help forecast enrollment changes, revenue impacts, and cost structures.

Strategic Planning and Decision-Making

• Ability to support the schools long-term vision by aligning financial strategies with educational and operational goals.
• Sound judgment in resource allocation, investment choices, and financial risk management.

Leadership and Communication

• Strong interpersonal skills for communicating financial information to non-financial staff, administrators, and board members.
• Leadership qualities to manage finance staff, foster team development, and drive change when needed.

Technology and Financial Software Proficiency

• Familiarity with financial management software and educational budgeting tools, along with advanced Excel skills.
• Knowledge of school-specific ERP or financial management systems for streamlined reporting and analysis.

Knowledge of Educational Sector Dynamics

• Understanding of school operations, funding challenges, and the impact of financial decisions on educational outcomes.
• Awareness of policies related to tuition, government funding, scholarships, and financial aid.

Key Skills & Competencies:

• Strong knowledge of accounting, finance, taxation, and regulatory compliance.
• Proficiency in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and MIS reporting.
• Expertise in ERP software (Tally, Zoho, or similar finance tools).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Proven ability to lead and manage the entire accounts and finance department, ensuring efficiency and compliance.