Our client is a global leader in the education sector, with a network of 87 international schools spread across the Americas, Europe, China, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. The organization educates over 80,000 students from kindergarten to secondary education. With a strong commitment to educational excellence, the company partners with world-renowned institutions such as UNICEF, MIT, and the Juilliard School, to provide transformative learning experiences for students. As a member of this organization, you will be part of a forward-thinking team focused on shaping the future of education on a global scale.
As the Group Financial Accountant, you will have the opportunity to take an active role in supporting the consolidated monthly financial close process. Your responsibilities will include:
* Supporting the Financial Close: Assisting in the preparation of high-quality monthly, quarterly, and year-end consolidated financial results in accordance with IFRS and other applicable accounting standards.
* Financial Analysis and Reporting: Providing detailed financial analysis, performing reconciliations, and ensuring accuracy in the presentation of financial statements, balance sheets, and P&L reports.
* Acquisitions and Integration: Supporting the acquisition and integration of new schools, including accounting advice and assistance with consolidation processes.
* Cross-functional Collaboration: Working closely with other teams to provide clear and concise accounting advice on significant and unusual transactions.
* Audit Coordination: Coordinating year-end and ad-hoc audits, ensuring timely and accurate reporting, and facilitating effective communication with auditors.
* Process Improvement: Contributing to the refinement of financial consolidation processes, reducing reliance on manual systems and improving overall efficiency while ensuring compliance with internal controls.
* System Administration: Assisting with the administration of the financial consolidation system (OneStream) and supporting the monthly close activities.
The ideal candidate for this role will have a strong background in financial accounting, with an understanding of IFRS and experience in the education sector. The key qualifications and experience include:
* Educational Background: A degree in finance, accounting, or a related discipline from a recognized tertiary institution.
* Professional Qualifications: ACA, ACCA, or equivalent accounting qualification (newly qualified or nearly qualified).
* IFRS Experience: Strong technical knowledge of accounting under IFRS, including the preparation of consolidated financial statements.
* Education Sector Experience: Previous experience working in a financial accounting role within the education sector is highly desirable. Familiarity with the unique financial reporting challenges in education institutions will be an advantage.
* Attention to Detail: A high level of attention to detail and a strong analytical mindset.
* Communication Skills: Ability to work cross-functionally, provide clear advice, and communicate effectively with internal teams and external auditors.
* System Skills: Experience with financial consolidation systems (e.g., OneStream) or similar software is a plus.
* Commitment to Excellence: A proactive, solutions-oriented approach, with a commitment to improving financial processes and maintaining high standards of financial reporting.