Strategic Financial Advisor

Financial Planning and Strategy Expert

Are you an analytical professional with a passion for turning complex financial data into actionable insights that drive strategy and impact? We are seeking a talented Financial Planning and Strategy Expert to join our team of medical researchers at the forefront of investigating the world's toughest diseases.

About the Role
Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer, this pivotal position supports world-class medical research by delivering high-quality financial insights and strategic advice across the institute. You will collaborate with leaders across the organisation to provide clear, actionable insights that shape strategy, enhance efficiency, and strengthen the financial foundations that support our research.

Key Responsibilities:
1. Develop comprehensive annual budgets and rolling forecasts, including multi-year and long-range financial plans, to ensure informed decision-making and resource optimisation.
2. Monitor financial performance, highlighting trends and risks, to enable proactive mitigation strategies and sustainable growth.
3. Investigate and explain variances between budgets, actual results, forecasts, and prior periods, recommending corrective actions to maintain fiscal discipline and accountability.
4. Create and maintain robust financial models to analyse operational performance and assess future outcomes, providing valuable insights for strategic planning and resource allocation.
5. Evaluate cost structures, funding sources, and resource allocations to optimise efficiency and sustainability, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and objectives.
6. Assess and optimise funding outlooks in relation to research and grant income streams, identifying opportunities for growth and development.
7. Prepare accurate and timely financial reports, dashboards, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders, showcasing our commitment to transparency and accountability.
8. Lead the development, maintenance, and enhancement of the financial reporting suite to provide clear, actionable insights that inform strategic decision-making.
9. Contribute to the development and execution of long-term strategic plans through insightful financial analysis and recommendations, collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive organisational success.
10. Engage with stakeholders to understand operational drivers and translate them into financial impacts, fostering strong relationships and communication throughout the organisation.

Required Skills and Qualifications:
• Tertiary qualification in Finance or Accounting (or similar) with professional membership as a Chartered Accountant or Certified Practicing Accountant.
• Experience in a similar position demonstrating strong technical accounting knowledge, analytical skills, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proven experience in preparing and analysing statutory and management reports, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and organisational policies.
• Strong ability to interpret complex financial data, identify trends, investigate variances, and recommend practical, data-driven solutions.
• Demonstrated understanding of organisational drivers, funding models, and market dynamics, with the ability to provide strategic financial insights that support decision-making.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders and build strong working relationships across all levels.
• Advanced Excel skills, with demonstrated experience using ERP systems, budgeting, forecasting, and financial modelling tools to drive accuracy and efficiency.

Benefits:
• Flexible working options to promote work-life balance and productivity.
• A supportive and passionate team environment that fosters collaboration and innovation.
• The opportunity to make a positive impact in a community-focused organisation with global reach, contributing to groundbreaking medical research and improving health outcomes worldwide.
• Salary packaging up to $18,550 annually, enabling employees to increase their take-home pay while reducing tax liabilities.
• Generous leave benefits, including paid extra leave, parental leave, and cultural and community engagement leave, promoting employee well-being and satisfaction.

How to Apply
To be considered for this exciting opportunity, please submit your cover letter addressing the selection criteria and your resume. Only applications submitted via Seek will be considered. We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming a talented Financial Planning and Strategy Expert to our team.

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