Ohana For Youth is a growing, respected and innovative charity based in Southeast Queensland that provides secondary education and support programs to young people.
Our colleges are Co-Ed Independant Special Assistance schools for young people who have disengaged from mainstream schooling. Our stunning, purpose built facilities are located at Robina on the Gold Coast and Meadowbrook in Logan.
We base our philosophy on establishing positive and respectful relationships between adults and students to maximise engagement and academic achievement set in a structured, nurturing welfare based environment. It's a positive, fun and happy place to work and all our staff are highly valued. All staff have access to Fitness Passport, EAP, stacks of professional development and significant tax benefits through our PBI status.
We are looking for a passionate Finance Manager to join our team.
The Finance Manager provides strategic financial leadership through forward-looking planning, budgeting, and forecasting to ensure the sustainability and financial capability of Ohana Group’s schools and programs. Working closely with the CFO, this role supports decision-making by delivering accurate financial analysis, scenario modelling, and performance insights that align resources with organisational priorities.
The Finance Manager plays a key part in enabling effective resource allocation, compliance, and financial transparency across Arcadia College, Ohana College, and Ohana for Youth
This is a full time, permanent position, available for an immediate start. The hours required will be Monday - Friday, 8am to 4pm.
Key Responsibilities:
Financial Planning, Budgeting & Forecasting
* Lead the preparation of annual operating and capital budgets, consolidating inputs from schools and departments.
* Manage quarterly and rolling forecasts, including scenario analysis and financial modeling.
* Ensure all budgets and forecasts align with organisational priorities, funding rules, and compliance requirements.
* Partner with leaders to review financial performance, identifying risks and recommending corrective actions.
Financial Analysis & Reporting
* Develop and deliver variance analysis, executive dashboards, and KPI reports to inform leadership decision-making.
* Review monthly and year-end outcomes against forecasts and budgets, providing clear commentary on variances.
* Analyse financial data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement, and make recommendations to senior management on areas for action.
* Prepare reports and presentations for the CFO, Executive Team, and Board.
Business Cases & Strategic Support
* Build financial models to assess new initiatives, staffing changes, and capital projects.
* Conduct cost-benefit and scenario analysis to support strategic planning and resource allocation.
* Provide financial advice and insight to assist school Principals and department heads in managing budget effectively.
Risk Management & Compliance
* Monitor financial sustainability and ensure alignment with funding guidelines and internal policies.
* Support audit processes by providing analysis and context around budget assumptions and variances.
* Identify and mitigate financial risks impacting long-term viability.
* Assist in developing and implementing financial policies and procedures to ensure compliance with relevant regulations and best practices.
Cashflow
* Lead and own the cashflow forecasting process, projecting inflows and outflows and providing forward-looking commentary.
* Collaborate with the Financial Controller to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of underlying financial data.
Teamwork and Collaboration
* Collaborate closely with the Financial Controller to ensure integration between planning and reporting processes.
* Work closely with department heads and other key stakeholders to develop and monitor financial plans and forecasts, ensuring that they are aligned with the organisation’s strategic objectives.
* Engage with key internal stakeholders including school Principals, School Managers, HR, and department heads.
* Participate in ad-hoc financial projects as required.
Qualifications and Experience:
* Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.
* Membership of Professional Association preferably CPA or CA.
* Minimum 5 years’ experience in financial management, planning, or analysis will be good.
* Hold a current and valid Work With Children Blue Card.
Key Skills:
* Strong skills in budgeting, forecasting, and financial modelling.
* Demonstrated experience preparing and analysing management reports and KPIs.
* Demonstrated experience in developing financial dashboards.
* Experience with accounting software (e.g. TASS) and general office applications.
* Excellent analytical skills with experience researching and analysing financial data, statements and reports and developing strategies and options to address issues.
* Experience of working within a school, educational setting not- for-profit, or multi-site (desired)
* Demonstrable leadership experience.
* Understanding of funding models and education sector compliance.
Ohana for Youth is committed to promoting a safe, inclusive and culturally responsive environment for all students, ensuring their safety and wellbeing is prioritised in every aspect of the Ohana for Youth operations. We recognise our fundamental duty of care and are fully committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people in our community. This responsibility is shared by every member of our organisation - leaders, staff, volunteers, and contractors - and extends across all aspects of schools life and operations.