Are you ready for a challenge?

Our organisation is undergoing a period of change resulting in a restructure of the Finance Team. We are seeking an enthusiastic and proactive full-time Business Manager who is results oriented to oversee and lead the Finance Team.

About us

Australian Baptist Education (ABE) is a not-for-profit organisation in the Baptist tradition, that provides support for educational, IT, financial, payroll, human resources and property services to six K-Yr 12 Colleges, three Early Learning Centres (ELC's), one tertiary institute, a financial resources company and three development companies.

Our mission is to provide a cost effective alternative to the administrative and operational functions required in the schools, early learning centres and institutes we serve. ABE is committed to providing an exceptional standard of service to our associated entities and places a great importance on the development of our people.

ABE offers a cohesive, committed and flexible working environment that is an integral service provider to our associated entities.

About you…

• As a committed and practicing Christian, you will uphold and support the Christian ethos of the organisation.
• Possess a Bachelor Degree in Accounting, Finance or related field (CPA or CA qualifications will be highly regarded).
• Have a minimum of 5 year experience in financial management in the not-for-profit sector.
• Have a well-developed knowledge of Australian Taxation Laws and Accounting Standards (AASB).
• Are highly proficient in the use of technology, including accounting software and have an advanced level of Excel skills.
• Have a strong attention to detail with excellent analytical and problem solving abilities.
• Are able to work independently, managing multiple priorities in fast paced environment.
• Have strong communication skills that enable you to collaborate and communicate effectively with stakeholders.

The Role…

Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, this role proactively supports the Finance Committee (a sub-committee of the Board). Our new Business Manager will be responsible for:

• Management of the day-to-day organisational accounting activities, including general ledger management, bank reconciliations, monthly closing processes to assist in cash forecasting.
• Overseeing the preparation and submission of the monthly BAS and annual FBT.
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date financial records and ensure all financial transactions are appropriately recorded and documented.
• Providing financial support and analysis to the CFO, including liaising with and working to help prepare financial reports, budgets, and forecasts.
• Ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including taxation and financial reporting standards.
• Supervising the management of the database and its integrity, together with the CFO, Head of Human Resources and Senior Accountant.
• Supervising and supporting the Accounts Officers, ensuring timely processing of vendor invoices and payments, daily bank reconciliations and month-end processes.
• Working with the Colleges and Accounts Officers on accuracy of requisitions and purchase orders applied in the accounting system.
• Working to configure a large-scale procurement process for the group, and see the rollout across the Colleges and Early Learning Centres in the group.
• Assisting with audits and liaising with external auditors to ensure smooth and efficient audits.
• Contributing to the development and implementation of accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Assist in the preparation of financial statements in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (AASB) and other relevant regulations including Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and acquittals for both State and Commonwealth Departments of Education.
• Preparing information for Colleges to assist them in their annual reporting.
• Managing areas of vehicle, student, property and liability insurance; updates to brokers, annual reporting, assisting with claims between College and broker/underwriter.
• Providing ad-hoc financial analysis and reporting as required by the CFO and other senior management.
• Maintaining and managing the accounts for the financial resources company and the three development companies within the group including bank reconciliations, management of accounts payable and accounts receivable, monthly journals and end of month processes.
• Undertaking month-end reviews for two companies in the group.
• Reviewing and developing financial processes and policies as required.

Applications should include a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role and your current CV. This position is expected commence in April to May 2025. Applications are required to be submitted by the close of business on 14 March 2025. ABE reserves the right to appoint a candidate before the closing date.