FINANCE MANAGER

About Ghana International School (GIS): 

Ghana International School was established in 1955 with 38 students. For the past 70 years, the school has provided world-class international education to 1,200+ students from 37+ nationalities. GIS is accredited by CIS, NEASC, and is a member of AISA. It is recognised globally for holistic student development and academic excellence. Our curriculum spans the Cambridge Early Years to IGCSE and A-Level programs, ensuring a strong foundation for lifelong learning. GIS fosters a dynamic, inclusive, and innovative environment where staff are empowered to excel and continuously grow. We seek a forward-thinking Finance Manager to lead our financial strategy into the future, ensuring GIS proactively navigates economic trends and challenges to remain financially resilient and ahead of the curve. 

JOB SUMMARY:

 The Finance Manager leads the day-to-day financial operations of the school, ensuring robust systems of economic control, compliance, and reporting. While the role operates with significant autonomy in managing financial processes, it remains accountable to the Vice Principal Administration [VPA] and closely aligns with the strategic direction set by the Principal, the CEO and the Board of Directors. This role provides critical financial insight to inform decision-making and supports the school’s long term sustainability through effective planning, forecasting, and reporting. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: 

1. Financial Strategy and Planning Develop, implement, and regularly review financial controls and processes to ensure fiscal responsibility and operational efficiency. Lead annual budgeting processes, ensuring alignment with the school’s strategic priorities and operational needs. Develop and update multi-year financial forecasts to support long-term planning. Provide timely financial reports and analysis to the VPA, Principal, and Board for strategic decision-making.

 2. Treasury and Investment Oversight Monitor school cash flow and ensure optimal liquidity and financial health. In collaboration with the Finance Committee of the Board and the VPA, advise on prudent investment strategies. Execute and monitor performance of approved investments.

 3. Financial Operations and Compliance Oversee all financial transactions to ensure accuracy, transparency, and compliance with statutory obligations and internal controls. Supervise monthly payroll and staff loans, and ensure integrity in fee collections and disbursements. Coordinate external audits, including preparation of financial statements and responses to auditor queries. Ensure compliance with Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), SSNIT, and other regulatory bodies. 

4. Team Leadership and Process Improvement Lead and mentor the Finance Office team, promoting a culture of accountability, professionalism, and service. Continuously review and enhance financial systems, policies, and practices in line with best practices and school needs. Participate in school-wide initiatives that require financial input, ensuring that learning remains at the heart of all decisions.

 5. Collaboration and Strategic Alignment Collaborate closely with the VPA on financial planning and reporting, ensuring alignment with broader administrative goals. Provide financial counsel to the Principal and Executive Team as required, particularly on risk, growth, and resource allocation. Represent Finance in cross-functional meetings and projects as delegated by the VPA or Principal. 

Key Relationships Internal:

- VPA (primary line manager), Principal, Executive Team, Board of Directors, Heads of Department External:

- Financial Institutions, External Auditors, GRA, SSNIT, vendors, investment managers

 Required Qualifications & Experience:

- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field Chartered Accountant (ACCA, ICA, CPA, or equivalent) 

- At least 5 years of progressive experience in financial management, preferably in an educational or mission-driven organization. 

- Strong working knowledge of Ghanaian tax and financial laws 

Preferred: 

- Master’s degree or MBA Experience working in multicultural, international school settings 

- Strategic exposure to school governance or board-level reporting

 Skills and Attributes:

 High integrity and sound judgment Strong analytical, planning, and decision-making skills 

Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities Technological proficiency in financial systems and accounting software 

Ability to balance operational independence with collaborative reporting 

APPLICATION PROCESS:

 To apply for the Finance Manager position at Ghana International School, please submit the following: 

1.Resume/CV detailing your education and professional experience.

 2.Cover Letter explaining your interest in the role and how your skills align with the Finance Manager role at GIS.

 Ghana International School is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and forward-thinking workplace. In line with our commitment to Child Protection and safeguarding in promoting the welfare of children, we expect all employees to actively uphold and support this responsibility