Financial Controller

Location:
Sydney, NSW – this role will require presence in office.

Organisation Type:
 Not-for-Profit (NFP)

Sector:
 Water Sports / Community Engagement / Recreation

Reports to:
 Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

About Us

We are a passionate not-for-profit organisation committed to promoting access, safety, and participation in water sports across NSW. Through programs, events, training, and advocacy, we bring communities together on and around the water—fostering health, inclusion, and environmental stewardship.

Role Overview

The Financial Controller is a key member of the senior leadership team, responsible for the financial sustainability, transparency, and strategic financial direction of the organisation. This role balances robust financial oversight with a passion for supporting community-driven outcomes in the water sports sector.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Financial Leadership

● Partner with the CEO and Board to shape and deliver long-term financial strategies aligned with our mission.

● Provide commercial insight and financial modelling to support growth, program delivery, and capital investment.

Financial Management & Compliance

● Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and financial reporting.

● Ensure compliance with ATO and relevant Australian accounting standards and NFP regulations.

● Manage financial audits, risk management, and internal control processes.

Grants, Funding, and Revenue Diversification

● Lead financial planning for grant applications, acquittals, and donor reporting.

● Work with program and development teams to support funding strategy and diversify revenue (e.g., sponsorships, donations, events).

Team & Systems

● Manage and develop x1 finance staff; oversee outsourced providers (e.g., Statutory Reporting (BAS, IAS) & EOFY Audit.

● Continually improve financial systems, processes, and reporting tools to drive efficiency and insight.

Board and Stakeholder Reporting

● Prepare financial board packs and present to the Board.

● Support strategic decision-making through clear, actionable financial data and scenario planning.

Key Selection Criteria

Essential:

● Degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CA/CPA qualification preferred.

● 5+ years' experience in a senior finance role, ideally within the NFP, sport or community sector.

● Demonstrated experience with financial strategy, budgeting, forecasting, and compliance.

● Strong understanding of Australian NFP regulatory environment, including ACNC, DGR status, and grant reporting.

● Proven ability to communicate complex financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders.

Desirable:

● Passion for water sports, outdoor recreation, or community engagement.

● Experience with Xero, or other cloud-based finance systems.

● Familiarity with government and philanthropic grant processes.

● Previous experience reporting to a Board or Finance Committee.

What We Offer

● Purpose-driven, values-based culture.

● Flexible work arrangements, including hybrid options.

● The opportunity to make a real difference in Australian communities.