Chief Finance Officer (CFO) at Stratostaff

PROFILE INTRODUCTION:       

Our client, an esteemed educational institution located in Kajiado County, is dedicated to delivering a world-class, competency-based curriculum designed to nurture well-rounded, future-ready students. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, the school integrates an internationally recognized curriculum with holistic programs that foster personal growth, critical thinking, and a global perspective. The institution is seeking a strategic and experienced Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to support its mission, ensuring sustainable financial operations and enhancing its educational impact across the region. This role offers the opportunity to be part of a dynamic team, shaping the financial future of a leading school in East Africa.

 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:                   

• Financial Strategy and Planning: Develop and execute a comprehensive financial strategy aligned with the institution's mission and goals. Collaborate with executive leadership and the Board of Directors to provide financial guidance and recommendations. Forecast financial trends and assess the impact of strategic decisions on the institution's financial health.
• Financial Policies: To supervise and coordinate the development and implementation of policies, procedures, and systems for all financial support services throughout the company.
• Financial Reporting: Oversee the preparation of accurate and timely financial reports, including income statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements, and financial projections. Responsible for preparing and presenting financial reports to the board of directors, executive leadership, and other stakeholders while ensuring compliance with financial reporting standards and regulations.
• Financial Analysis: Analyze financial data to identify trends, opportunities, and areas of concern, provide insights into the company's financial performance, and use financial analysis to guide strategic decision-making and long-term planning.
• Budgeting: Lead the annual budgeting process, working closely with department heads and heads of schools to develop budgetary goals and targets. Monitor budget performance, identify variances, and implement corrective actions as necessary. Optimize resource allocation to achieve institutional objectives efficiently.
• Financial Risk Management: Identify and assess financial risks, such as investment strategies, market fluctuations, and regulatory changes. Develop risk mitigation strategies and financial contingency plans. Maintain a comprehensive understanding of the institution's financial risk profile.
• Investment Management: Manage the institution's investment by sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities, managing the existing portfolio, and recommending prudent investment decisions and resource allocation to maximize returns while minimizing risk.
• Financial Compliance: Ensure compliance with all statutory requirements, financial laws, regulations, and reporting requirements. Oversee audits and work with external auditors to maintain financial transparency and accountability.
• Tax Planning and Compliance: Ensuring compliance with statutory tax laws and regulations is paramount. The CFO will be responsible for the development and management of the company's tax strategy ensuring it is aligned with the company's overall financial objectives. He/ She will oversee the accurate and timely preparation and filing of tax returns and ensure the company is fully tax-compliant.
• Treasury and Cash Management: Manage cash flow, optimize liquidity, and oversee banking relationships. Monitor and forecast cash requirements to ensure operational sustainability.
• Leadership and Team Management: Lead and develop a high-performing finance team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Mentor and coach finance staff, promoting professional growth and development.

KEY COMPETENCIES:

• Financial Acumen
• Strategic Thinking & Decision Making
• Financial Reporting & Compliance 
• Operational Efficiency
• Stakeholder Relationship & Management
• Ethical Leadership & Team Development

Requirements

• A Bachelor's Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field;
• CPA (K) holder and a member of ICPAK in good standing
• Master’s Degree is an added advantage
• At least 10 years of experience in finance/accounting and a minimum of 5 years’ experience in a senior financial leadership role within a complex organization.
• Strong financial acumen and analytical skills, with a track record of strategic financial planning and budget management.
• In-depth knowledge of financial regulations, accounting principles, and best practices.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders.
• Exceptional leadership and team management abilities.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive, results-oriented approach.
• Demonstrated integrity and ethical behaviour in financial management.
• Practical experience in board reporting, creating and presenting reports to the company’s board of directors in a timely manner.