Financial Accountant

Position Description

Role Purpose

The financial Accountant will provide a key service function by working with the Finance team to deliver an accurate reconciled ledger, at agreed service levels, for analysis and monthly reporting. This position works closely with Finance Manager, Management Accountant and Finance Officer to manage the overall process. Similarly, the role will support the Finance Manager in ensuring any smooth external audit processes and the timely and accurate preparation of the Financial Statements for all entities.

Key Areas of Accountability

Role requirements

• Work with Finance Team to ensure the accurate and timely closure of the general ledger each month to service levels agreed with the Finance business partners.
• Ensure accurate and timely monthly bank reconciliations for all save the children bank accounts.
• Work closely with Payroll to ensure timely processing of salaries/wages
• Maintain the fixed asset register including depreciation charges and ensuring accurate and timely close each month with the support of the finance manager for more complex transaction. Work with supply chain team regarding the documentation and standard operation procedures for fixed assets processes.
• Support the finance manager in ensuring smooth external audit process and the timely and accurate preparation of the Financial Statements for all relevant entities.
• Provide good level of customer service both (internal and external)
• Use initiative to proactively identify and escalate improvement opportunities.
• Collaborate both within and across the finance teams.
• Actively seek opportunities to develop an understanding of what the organisation does and how it does it.
• Develop knowledge of and compliance with all relevant legislation, regulatory requirements, professional standards, and guidelines.
• Any other relevant responsibilities as assigned by the supervisor.

Child protection and safeguarding requirements

• Maintain a child safe environment at the workplace and safeguard children’s rights, always acting in the best interests of children
• Comply with the Child Safeguarding Code of Conduct and child safeguarding and protection policies and standards (click here to view further details)
• Demonstrate the highest standards of behaviour towards children in both your private and professional life
• Never abuse the position of trust that comes with being a part of the Save the Children family
• Always maintain a safe and positive relationship when working with children and young people
• Respond to any concerns for the safety or wellbeing of a child in a program in accordance with internal reporting processes

Person Specification

• Minimum of three years working in Finance Sector.
• Excellent Understanding of Financial accounting and reporting concepts.
• Good customer service focus
• Excellent verbal and written and communication skills
• Excellent time management and organizational skills; ability to work under pressure and to meet tight deadlines.
• Good attention to details
• Computer Literacy (including Intermediate Excel Skills)
• Good levels of self-motivation
• Initiative, flexibility, and ability to work independently as well as in a team: ability to follow instructions and follow through.
• Ownership and accountability and ownership of one’s work.

Required qualifications and/or accreditations

• A bachelor’s degree from Tertiary institution or other business-related degree
• Studying towards (or already qualified) with relevant accounting body CA/CPA

Additional Information

• Any offer of employment at Save the Children Australia will be subject to a satisfactory National Police Record Check and a Working with Children Check
• Employees must sign on to Save the Children Australia’s Child Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct
• Ongoing performance and employment will be measured against KPIs, values and demonstrated behaviours outlined above
• Save the Children Australia is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Health, safety, security and risk management

• Be a role model for safety and security and comply with all workplace safety policy, procedure, work instructions and training
• Always act in a safe manner
• Report all incidents, injuries and potential hazards in a timely manner
• Participate in, and contribute to, health and safety awareness and improvements
• Be aware of, document and manage the risks associated with your team’s programs and workplaces and ensure appropriate elimination or mitigation measures are applied

Others/ General

• Ensure staff have completed all required training and have up-to-date background and working with children checks
• Lead and promote a culture of strong governance promoting employee health, safety and security and operational risk management
• Show leadership towards health and safety awareness and improvements