E&K Academia

Location: Hong Kong

Department: Finance

Reports To: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Position Type: Full-Time

Purpose of the Role:

The Finance Manager plays a critical role in ensuring the financial health and sustainability of E&K Academia. This role is responsible for managing day-to-day financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and compliance. The Finance Manager will support senior leadership in making informed financial decisions, ensuring that financial processes are efficient, accurate, and aligned with the organization's strategic goals. This position is ideal for a detail-oriented finance professional with a passion for education and a strong understanding of educational financial management.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Planning & Analysis
   • Assist in the development and management of annual budgets, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities and strategic goals.
   • Monitor and analyze the organization's financial performance, providing regular reports on variances, trends, and areas of concern.
   • Support the CFO in financial forecasting and long-term financial planning, analyzing potential impacts of new initiatives, policies, and funding sources.
   • Prepare financial projections, cash flow forecasts, and scenario analyses to support decision-making and strategic planning.
2. Financial Reporting & Compliance
   • Prepare and present timely and accurate financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow reports, in accordance with accounting standards and organizational requirements.
   • Ensure compliance with all relevant financial regulations, policies, and accounting practices.
   • Coordinate and manage the annual audit process, working with external auditors to ensure accurate financial reporting and adherence to internal controls.
   • Maintain and update internal financial policies and procedures, ensuring they are in line with current laws, best practices, and organizational needs.
3. Accounts Management
   • Oversee accounts payable and accounts receivable functions, ensuring timely and accurate processing of invoices, payments, and collections.
   • Manage payroll processing and ensure that all payroll-related transactions are recorded and compliant with tax and regulatory requirements.
   • Monitor and manage the organization’s cash flow to ensure adequate funds are available for operational needs while maintaining optimal reserves.
4. Cost Control & Efficiency
   • Monitor and evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of financial processes, recommending improvements where necessary to reduce costs and optimize resources.
   • Conduct regular reviews of expenditures and contracts to ensure that financial resources are being allocated effectively and in line with the budget.
   • Identify opportunities for cost savings and revenue generation within the organization’s financial operations.
5. Financial Systems & Tools
   • Ensure the organization’s financial systems and tools are utilized effectively to maintain accuracy and streamline financial processes.
   • Work with the finance team to improve and implement best practices in financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting through the use of technology and automation tools.
   • Provide training and support to other departments on financial procedures, tools, and compliance requirements.
6. Collaboration & Support
   • Partner with department heads and senior leadership to provide financial insights that support organizational decision-making and performance management.
   • Provide guidance and support on financial matters to staff, ensuring clarity on budgeting, financial policies, and reporting procedures.
   • Assist in preparing financial information for Board meetings, including key financial metrics, updates on organizational financial health, and any required documentation.

Qualifications:

• Education:
  • A Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree or relevant professional certifications (such as CPA or CFA) are a plus.
• Experience:
  • At least 5-7 years of experience in a finance or accounting role, with a strong background in financial reporting, budgeting, and analysis.
  • Prior experience in the education sector, or public sector finance is highly preferred.
  • Experience managing financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance processes.
  • Familiarity with financial software systems (e.g., QuickBooks, Sage, NetSuite, or similar) and Microsoft Excel (advanced level).
• Skills & Competencies:
  • Strong understanding of financial principles, accounting standards, and regulations, particularly in nonprofit or educational settings.
  • Proficient in financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting, with the ability to explain complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders.
  • Excellent analytical skills with the ability to identify trends, variances, and areas for improvement in financial performance.
  • High level of attention to detail and accuracy in financial data entry and reporting.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with senior leadership, staff, and external auditors, maintaining clear communication and effective relationships.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities under deadlines.
• Personal Attributes:
  • Integrity, professionalism, and commitment to maintaining confidentiality and ethical standards in all financial matters.
  • Strong problem-solving abilities, with a proactive approach to addressing financial challenges.
  • A passion for education and a commitment to the mission and values of the organization.
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a collaborative team.
  • Strong communication skills, with the ability to clearly present financial information and recommendations to various stakeholders.