City Education Group About Us City Education Group (CEG) is a leader in delivering high-quality, innovative educational experiences, empowering students to achieve their academic and career aspirations. Spanning four distinct colleges, CEG provides a diverse range of programs, including second-level, third-level, professional qualifications, CPD, and English language training. With over a decade of excellence, we continue to expand and innovate, ensuring our programs meet the evolving needs of learners in an ever-changing global landscape. In 2024, CEG announced the addition of PEN (Planet Education Networks) as a new shareholder, marking an important milestone in our continued growth & success. We are now seeking an accomplished and strategic Group Financial Controller to join our leadership team. This pivotal role will oversee the financial operations of our multi-entity organisation (4 separate entities), driving financial sustainability, compliance, and strategic growth. Role Overview The Group Financial Controller will be responsible for managing day-to-day financial operations, ensuring robust compliance with regulations, and providing strategic financial insights to support CEGs continued growth. The role demands a proactive, commercially minded leader with a strong ability to analyse financial data, develop forward-looking financial strategies, and enhance operational efficiencies. Key Responsibilities 1. Financial Reporting & Compliance: Oversee the preparation of accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements for all separate entities, ensuring full compliance with accounting standards and regulatory requirements. Manage year-end financial reporting, liaising with auditors to ensure a smooth and timely audit process. Ensure adherence to revenue recognition policies and tax regulations. 2. Budgeting & Financial Planning: Lead the budgeting and forecasting process for 1, 3, and 5-year financial plans for all entities. Partner with department heads to develop accurate revenue and expenditure forecasts. Provide variance analysis, identifying financial trends and recommending corrective actions. Monitor cash flow on a regular basis and implement strategies to optimise financial stability. 3. Internal Controls & Risk Management: Review, maintain and strengthen (where necessary) strong internal controls to safeguard financial integrity and mitigate risk. Coordinate and support external audits, ensuring comprehensive and timely responses to audit queries. Continuously assess financial risks and implement strategies to minimise exposure to the same. 4. Strategic Financial Leadership & Decision Support: Provide financial insights and recommendations to senior leadership on business expansion, capital investments, and cost optimisation. Contribute to strategic initiatives, including pricing structures, funding applications, and financial sustainability models. Develop financial models and reports to facilitate data-driven decision-making. 5. Team Leadership & Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Lead and develop the finance team, fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous learning. Collaborate with academic, administrative, and operational teams to align financial strategies with institutional goals. Engage with external stakeholders, including auditors, regulators, banks, and government agencies, to maintain strong financial governance. 6. Financial Systems & Process Optimisation: Enhance financial systems and reporting tools to improve efficiency and accuracy. Implement automation initiatives to streamline financial processes and reduce manual errors. Oversee financial system upgrades and ensure seamless integration with IT infrastructure. Candidate Profile Qualifications & Experience: Bachelors degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field. A relevant professional qualification (e.g., ACCA, CIMA, CPA) is required. (Must be a qualified Accountant) Minimum 7+ years of experience in financial management or accounting, with at least 3 years in a leadership role. Proven experience in financial strategy, budgeting, and compliance within a multi-entity organisation (experience in the education sector is an advantage). Strong commercial acumen and a track record of successfully working with diverse and demanding stakeholders. Proficiency in financial reporting systems (experience with Sage 50 or similar accounting software is advantageous). Strong knowledge of Office 365 suite (Word, Excel, Outlook etc). Ability to develop and integrate multiple finance systems. Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Demonstrated ability to lead and develop the financial team at CEG. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to convey complex financial information clearly and succinctly. Ability to manage competing priorities, work under pressure, and adapt to changing regulations. Good team player What We Offer: Competitive salary package (commensurate with experience). Comprehensive training and professional development opportunities. A dynamic and supportive work environment in a growing education group. Career advancement pathways within the expanding education sector. A collaborative and forward-thinking leadership team dedicated to excellence and innovation. Line Management The successful candidate will report on a day -to-day basis to the CEO and ultimately to the Chair and Board of Directors Job Details: Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time Location: Dublin, Ireland Salary Range: Competitive DOE Join City Education Group and play a key role in shaping the financial future of a leading education institution. If you are a results-driven financial leader with a passion for strategic impact, we invite you to apply today! Skills: Analytical Ability Budget Management Commercial Acumen Team Player Excellent Communication Skills Financial Management or Accounting