Job Description
Finance Manager
Are you an experienced finance professional looking to make a meaningful impact in education across sub-Saharan Africa?
Position: Finance Manager
Location: Remote (UK-based), with occasional travel as required
Hours: Full-time (35 hours per week), with flexibility for 70%-80% part-time arrangements
Contract: Two years, with possible renewal subject to funding
Salary: £40 - £55k per annum, depending on experience
Closing Date: Wednesday 30th July 2025 at 5pm GMT
About the Role
We're looking for a motivated and detail-driven Finance Manager to join ESSA's international team and lead our UK financial operations. This vital role will support both UK and global finance functions, ensuring high-quality financial reporting, audit preparation, budgeting and compliance.
Key responsibilities include:
- Preparing monthly management accounts and variance analysis
- Leading year-end and audit processes for ESSA's UK operations
- Ensuring compliance with charity accounting standards and SORP
- Managing financial reporting for donor-funded projects, including the African Centre for School Leadership (ACSL)
- Supporting budget development, forecasting and reforecasting
- Strengthening finance systems and controls, and developing financial capacity across the team
About You
We're looking for a qualified accountant (ACCA, ACA, CIMA or equivalent) with:
- At least 5 years' experience in a finance role in a UK-registered charity
- Strong knowledge of UK charity accounting regulations and SORP
- Experience managing audits and supporting cross-border operations
- Advanced Excel and financial systems skills (AccountsIQ or QuickBooks an advantage)
- Excellent attention to detail and the ability to communicate financial information clearly
- The confidence to work independently in a remote, international team
Experience working in Africa or the international development or education sectors would be an advantage.
About the Organisation
Education Sub Saharan Africa (ESSA) improves education outcomes across sub-Saharan Africa by using data and evidence to drive change. We work in partnership with researchers, educators, policymakers and employers to co-design solutions that strengthen education systems. Our values - evidence-driven, solutions-focused, building trust, and always learning - shape everything we do.
Other roles you may have experience of could include: Charity Finance Manager, International Finance Lead, Head of Finance, Programme Finance Manager, Accountant - INGO, Financial Controller, Grants & Compliance Manager, Remote Finance Manager.
PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.
