Do you have demonstrable experience in supporting a finance function?

If your next move is to be a key contributor to a mission-driven organisation dedicated to educational integrity and governance, we invite you to apply to become a valued member within our Finance and Funding portfolio as the Lead Accountant, VCEA Finance.

What you’ll Do

As Lead Accountant, VCEA Finance you will support the Manager, VCEA Finance, acting as the senior support in the VCEA Finance team

The Lead Accountant, VCEA Finance will provide technical guidance and support to the Finance team in the financial reporting and planning processes, including preparation of comprehensive budgeting and forecasting, annual financial statements and regular management reporting.

As Lead Accountant, VCEA Finance, you will be be comfortable in partnering across the organisation and with external stakeholder providing financial advice bringing a commercial view to the table.

Key responsibilities

Provide senior-level support to the VCEA Finance Manager and team, offering technical advice and guidance on financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting.

Build strong internal and external stakeholder relationships, including business partnering with the Technology team and liaising with government agencies, auditors, and financial institutions.

Ensure sound financial management through cash flow oversight and the development of robust policies, procedures, and internal controls.

Drive continuous improvement by identifying process enhancements and contributing to more efficient ways of working.

Lead and support strategic finance projects as required.

What you’ll bring

This role requires proven experience in managing financial reporting, statutory compliance, government funding acquittals, and budgeting, with a strong focus on business partnering and process improvement.

To set you up for success in this role you will need well developed technological skills and an ability to work within complex system environments. Advanced skills in MS Excel functions and capabilities is essential.

Highly developed ability to communicate effectively with all levels, maintaining respect and being mindful of all viewpoints. Accepting of feedback and demonstrating competencies in professional, clear and concise verbal and written communication.

Interpersonal skills that have been refined throughout your career enabling you to seamlessly navigate complex hierarchies and structures, managing competing needs and priorities and able to influence and engage varied stakeholder groups to meet organisational goals.

Analytical and conceptual skills to solve problems through lateral thinking, and a strong grasp of accounting standards and statutory processes are crucial for success in this position.

Qualifications and Experience

A minimum of four years' experience working in leading accounting roles, including a minimum of three years of business partnering experience with complex funding and cost structure.

Tertiary qualification in relevant business or accounting degree.

Membership of Professional Accounting Association (CA/CPA).

A commitment to the ethos, values, and mission of Catholic education and to VCEA values of excellence, promoting the common good, integrity and equity.

Working knowledge of enterprise financial accounting software applications.

Advanced in MS Office and spreadsheet applications.

Why work with VCEA

As the peak body for Catholic education in Victoria, VCEA provides employees an opportunity to help shape the future of Catholic education across the state.

VCEA is the voice of Catholic education in State and national matters; we receive and distribute funding from state and federal governments for Catholic schools. Providing strategic leadership and planning to ensure proper governance in Catholic education statewide.

VCEA offers a purpose built new central city office location, 5 minutes walk to Parliament Station. Competitive remuneration (reflecting your experience), with generous benefits, and opportunities for career development.

These benefits combined with our commitment to work life balance make VCEA an employer of choice.

A note on inclusion and how to apply

If you are ready to make a difference in Victorian Catholic education, please submit your resume and a cover letter highlighting your skills and experience.

We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible for anyone who wishes to apply.

If you would like further information about this role, or require any adaptations or additional support for your individual circumstances so you can perform at your best during the application or recruitment process please reach out to: [email protected]

Successful candidates will be required to undergo a pre-employment National Police History check, obtain a Working with Children Check and provide evidence of Australian Citizenship or Visa.

Advertising and shortlisting

Due to the volume of applications received; only successful applicants will be contacted.

Advertising for this role will close: 5 June 2025.