Finance and Operations Lead

Philanthropy Australia has an exciting opportunity for a skilled finance and operations professional to join our passionate and purpose-driven team as our Finance & Operations Lead. This role plays a critical part in ensuring the financial and operational health of the organisation.

Working closely with the Director of Finance & Operations, this position is responsible for financial management, budgeting, compliance, payroll support, and day-to-day operational coordination, thereby enabling Philanthropy Australia to deliver on its mission effectively and sustainably. This position oversees daily financial processes, provides accurate and timely reporting, supports payroll and compliance, and drives continuous improvement in systems and operations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Finance

• Perform daily receipting and regular bank reconciliations, ensuring accurate cash records.
• Process accounts payable and receivable in a timely and accurate manner.
• Reconcile membership revenue between Xero and Salesforce monthly.
• Maintain and review the general ledger and chart of accounts.
• Support fortnightly payroll processes with the external provider, ensuring confidentiality and accuracy.
• Assist in the preparation of monthly/quarterly financial reports, including profit and loss statements and balance sheets for the Executive and Finance, Audit & Risk Management Committee.
• Support the Director of Finance & Operations to develop and finalise the annual organisational budget and any mid-year forecasts.
• Assist with monthly reporting and tracking of Business unit and Project budgets
• Support the preparation of monthly and quarterly financial reports for management and the Finance, Audit & Risk Management Committee.

Operations

• Oversee the day-to-day operational requirements of the organisation, including but not limited to business operations and IT systems
• Maintain relationships with external providers and suppliers (IT, Rental Lease Providers, Corporate suppliers)
• Provide IT support to the organisation as required. Liaise with IT providers in relation to hardware repairs or upgrades, software maintenance and updates as well as resolving issues in a timely and efficient manner.
• Ensure continuous improvement of operations including finance processes, technology systems, ICT management, and office management related matters.
• Supported by the Director of Finance & Operations, oversee the management of the office premises, including licensing agreements, OH&S procedures and procurement.
• Contribute to organisational projects as needed providing finance and operational type information and guidance as required
• Collaborate with People and Culture in relation to payroll and HR-related processes

SELECTION CRITERIA

• Tertiary qualifications in Business, Accounting, or a related field.
• Qualified or working towards CA/CPA/IPA (or similar).
• 3–5 years’ experience in a finance and operations role, ideally in a small to medium-sized organisation.
• Hands-on experience processing core accounting functions.
• Experience working with IT systems and emerging technologies.
• Proficient in Xero, with strong Excel and Office 365 skills.
• Understanding of payroll, GST/BAS, and relevant accounting legislation.
• Exposure to Salesforce or similar CRM systems.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• High level of integrity and discretion with financial and payroll data.
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills, with ability to juggle competing demands.

A position description is attached.

Philanthropy Australia welcomes applications from suitably qualified candidates of all backgrounds and experiences, including First Nations people, people with disabilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ people, and people of all ages. We strive to create a diverse, safe, and inclusive workforce for all team members. We believe in building an inclusive workforce that recognises human difference as a strength and supports our vision for a generous and inclusive Australia. We have commenced our reconciliation journey through our Reflect RAP, and with the support of our First Nations Governance Committee, are taking the next steps to further embed reconciliation initiatives into Philanthropy Australia’s business strategy.