Financial Controller

About the role

Mini Masterminds, a leading childcare company with multiple centers across Sydney, is seeking a Financial Controller to oversee all financial and accounting operations. Reporting to the Managing Director, this role is responsible for financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations, including government funding and childcare subsidies. The Financial Controller will play a key role in driving financial strategy, optimising performance, and supporting business growth. With a strong focus on internal controls, risk management, and financial sustainability, this role will provide critical insights to senior management while leading a high-performing finance team.

Role Requirements

• Ensuring financial operations - including systems, processes and procedures - operate effectively and efficiently and deliver quality services
• Facilitating delivery of transactional accounting services and activities across the Group
• Overseeing the management of cashflow, capex and systems delivers quality outputs in line with best-practice industry standards
• Maintaining and adhering to the compliance requirements of the business

Financial Management & Reporting

• Oversee and manage the preparation of financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
• Ensure timely and accurate financial reporting in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
• Develop and maintain financial models and forecasts to support strategic decision-making.
• Monitor key financial metrics, identify trends, and provide actionable insights.

Budgeting & Forecasting

• Lead the annual budgeting process and provide regular budget vs. actual analysis.
• Prepare financial forecasts and scenario analyses to support business planning.
• Collaborate with department heads to ensure alignment of financial goals with operational objectives.

Internal Controls & Compliance

• Establish and maintain a robust internal control environment to mitigate financial risks.
• Ensure compliance with tax regulations, financial laws, and corporate policies.
• Coordinate external audits and manage relationships with auditors and regulatory agencies.
• Implement best practices to improve financial efficiency and effectiveness.

Cash Flow & Treasury Management

• Monitor and manage company cash flow, working capital, and liquidity.
• Optimize capital structure and investment strategies to maximize financial stability.
• Maintain relationships with banks, financial institutions, and other key stakeholders.

Team Leadership & Development

• Supervise and mentor finance team members, including accountants and analysts.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and professional development within the finance department.
• Provide guidance on complex financial transactions and accounting treatments.

Strategic Financial Planning

• Support the CFO and executive team in developing long-term financial strategies.
• Evaluate financial implications of business initiatives, acquisitions, and investments.
• Assist in corporate strategy, risk management, and cost control initiatives.

About you

The successful candidate will possess

• Proven small to medium scale corporate experience in professional management and leading a transactional accounting team
• Relevant tertiary qualification in Accounting / Finance / Business Management along with Membership of CA or CPA
• High level skills in financial accounting, financial analysis, monitoring & risk assessment
• Demonstrated commercial acumen
• Ability to provide leadership and professional development to junior staff
• Understanding and appreciation of professional accounting principles and Australian / International Accounting Standards
• Ability to work with a diversity of people across all organisational levels and multiple stakeholder groups within a collegiate environment
• A commitment to the vision of this Company by demonstrating values driven management practices as well as the personal modelling of these values and principles to all staff

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field (master’s degree preferred).
• CPA, CMA, ACCA, or equivalent professional certification required.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in financial management, accounting, or auditing.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, IFRS, and other financial reporting standards.
• Proficiency in financial software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, QuickBooks).
• Experience in managing audits, tax compliance, and corporate finance activities.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and leadership skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• High attention to detail and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Professional development and training opportunities.