Finance Controller

Fueling Brains is a growing, vibrant organization poised to change the narrative of education. We are committed to transforming early childhood education through a holistic, whole-brain approach that nurtures young children into well-rounded, well-regulated, and joyful adults. By integrating educational science, technology, and childcare expertise, we aim to unveil each child's infinite potential. Our vision is bold, our mission is meaningful, and our team is passionate about making a difference. If you’re someone who believes in driving positive change and contributing to a purpose-led organization, you’ll feel right at home here. Join us in shaping not just young minds, but the future of education itself.

**Role Overview**:
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Finance Controller with 8-10 years of senior finance leadership experience in North America. The Finance Controller will oversee the finance team and manage all aspects of financial operations, including reporting, compliance, financial planning, multi-entity consolidations, and process improvements. This role requires a strong financial leader with excellent analytical abilities, regulatory knowledge, and leadership skills to collaborate effectively with internal teams, auditors, and leadership across Canadian and US entities. This position is based in Chennai and follows primarily IST hours with up to 30% overlap in MST.

Key Responsibilities:

- ** Financial Leadership**:
- Lead the finance department overseeing day-to-day accounting operations including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Payroll, General Ledger, Fixed Assets, and Treasury.
- Build and implement financial strategies and policies.
- ** Financial Planning & Analysis**:
- Conduct detailed financial analysis, forecasting, and budgeting to support business decisions and operational performance.
- Review and enhance internal controls and standard operating procedures.
- ** Compliance and Risk Management**:
- Ensure compliance with Canadian and US tax, legal, and regulatory requirements.
- Manage internal and external audits and maintain coordination with consultants and internal teams.
- ** Reporting & Communication**:
- Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes.
- Prepare, review, and present consolidated financial statements, management reports, and key financial metrics in accordance with Canadian GAAP to senior leadership.
- ** Cost Control & Efficiency**:
- Identify opportunities to enhance accounting processes, systems, and turnaround times, driving operational efficiency.
- ** Team Development**:
- Manage, mentor, and build capabilities within the finance team.
- Stay up to date on financial and accounting best practices.
- ** Budgeting and Forecasting**:
- Lead the annual budget preparation and perform periodic forecasts.
- Partner with department heads to identify financial trends, variances, and business drivers.
- Provide financial analysis and insights to support decision-making.

**Requirements**:
**Education**:

- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field.
- CPA/CA is mandatory.

**Experience**:

- 8-10 years in a senior finance leadership role.
- North American (Canada & US) finance experience is essential.
- Hands-on experience managing multi-entity consolidations and 4-currency translations is required.

**Skills**:

- Proven expertise in financial planning, budgeting, and financial analysis.
- Strong knowledge of North American financial regulations and compliance.
- Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative leadership approach.
- Proficiency in QuickBooks Online, Rippling (preferred), and advanced Excel.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

**Availability**:

- Willingness to work primarily in IST hours, with flexibility for early MST hours overlap (up to 30% of working time).

**What We Offer**:

- Competitive compensation package aligned with experience and expertise.
- Career growth opportunities in a dynamic, collaborative work environment.
- Supportive team culture focused on precision, innovation, and continuous improvement.
- Opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the future of early childhood education.

At Fueling Brains, we embrace diversity and inclusion and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to join us in shaping the future of education.